First published 2012
When Sargent Shriver dies in 2011 following his battle with Alzheimer's, his son Mark receives thousands of tributes from around the world. The Peace Corps founder and architect of Johnson's War on Poverty earned praise for his public achievements, but Mark finds himself drawn to different testimonies. People remember Sarge for his daily kindness and simple humanity. They call him "a good man." Mark had spent years trying to understand his father's public success, but now he searches for something deeper. He wants to discover the source of Sarge's joy, his devotion to helping others, and his clear sense of purpose. Mark uncovers his father's personal notes and letters. He listens to stories from family and friends about the three principles that shaped Sarge's life: faith, hope, and love. Old memories with his father gain new meaning. Through this journey, Mark learns about himself as a father, husband, and advocate for social justice.
Genres: biography, family-life, non-fiction, inspirational
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: found-family, personal-journey
Period: 2011
288 pages · Hardcover · Henry Holt and Co.