Book Review - Dad's Maybe Book by Tim O'Brien

Book review: Dad’s Maybe Book by Tim O’Brien

I’ve never read any of Tim O’Brien’s previous books, but this one has given me the feeling that I need to do so before time runs out. In fact, that is the same premise for this excellent book which he has written for his sons. As an older Dad, Tim recognized years ago that he may not be around to celebrate some adult events with his sons that younger dads enjoy. However, rather than dwell on his mortality, he decided to put together a wonderful family biography of the times and moments that he has shared with them.

Throughout the book, Tim also reveals his struggles as a writer, as well as a survivor of the Vietnam War. He doesn’t hold back on what he feels about the conflict, nor of his anti-war stance. He wants his boys to understand some of what he went through in order for them to try to understand who he is and was.

I enjoyed reading the whole book. There are some very touching moments and childlike responses from Tim’s kids. In a special way, they all wrote the book together, even suggesting its title. As a dad of two girls, I appreciate the candid honesty of the author in expressing his paternal love for his sons. The last chapter – ‘One Last Lesson Plan’ was a perfect way to end such a very clever and outstanding book.

The publishers gave me a copy to read and review. I am delighted to have received such a well-thought-out and exceptional book. And as I stated at the beginning of this review, I have now gladly started to read some of Tim O’Brien’s earlier books.

#DadsMaybeBook #NetGalley