by Tim Russert
First published 2006
Tim Russert explores the meaning of good fatherhood through reader responses to his bestseller Big Russ & Me. An avalanche of letters arrived from daughters and sons sharing stories about their own fathers. These were not superdads or heroes but ordinary men remembered for their best moments of advice, tenderness, strength, and discipline. Russert presents stories ranging from the father who attended every game and performance to support his daughter, to a woman who reconciled with her difficult father after fifteen years of estrangement, to a son who finally understood his father's quiet way of showing love. The book captures gratitude carried through years, lessons worth passing to the next generation, and the recognition that small gestures can make enormous differences in a child's life. Some contributors discovered their appreciation later than they wished, but Russert demonstrates it is never too late to embrace these connections. The collection celebrates positive qualities handed down through generations and serves as both companion to his memoir and guide for fathers learning to get it right.
Genres: family, non-fiction, biography-memoir, parenting
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: found-family, second-chance
304 pages · Hardcover · Random House