The writing style takes a little getting used to, but John’s compassion for his son’s heartache, accompanied with timely advice, quickly makes up for it. Sam’s account is honest as he chats candidly about his struggles with partying, sex and the unexpected suffering of a friend. John’s tone in response is fatherly and kind.

If the book is meant to be read together by young guys and their dads, I fear the slightly emotive tones may miss the mark (especially with a UK audience). However, oddly for me as a woman (rather than one of the the young men the title suggests it is aimed at), I found it really helpful and warm, packed full of advice that is applicable across gender.

With that in mind, I’m not entirely sure who this book is for, but I still found it a thought-provoking read. PC

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