5 books That Honour the Everyday Heroes we call Dad on Father’s Day
Everyday Heroes we call Dad on Father’s Day
They have our backs, are there to cheer us on, and teach us every day. Now, more than ever, dads everywhere are stepping up to lead with heart. And while this year’s Father’s Day celebrations might look a little different, taking the time to honour the real-life superheroes in our lives is more important than ever. They might not always have the words to say it, but dads care, worry, and only want the best for their mini me’s. So why not reach out with a virtual hello or gift card to one of our venue partners , one of their favourite stores or send them one of these books?
In the meantime, and to celebrate the everyday superheroes we call dad, here are my top 5 Father’s Day book picks:
5. Can I Sit on Your Lap While You’re Pooping?: Actual Quotes from an Actual Toddler to Her Actual Dad by Matthew Carroll (144 pages)
Kids say the darndest things, don’t they? I actually didn’t realize how funny, honest, and completely without censor they could be until we had a son of our own. The author, and single dad, must have agreed because he decided to document some of his daughter Morgan’s best quotes on his iPhone when she was between the ages of three and five. He then compiled them chronologically in a small homemade volume for friends and family who, compelled by the hilarious and touching content, encouraged him to share it with a larger audience. This book is a celebration of the hilarious, crazy, and touching thoughts of a little girl and a heartfelt example of the touching relationship between parent and child.
4. Why a Son Needs a Dad by Gregory Lang (128 pages)
Featuring over 40 inspiring black and white photos and 100 reasons why a son needs a dad, such as, to tell him that there is no disgrace in losing, to go with him on imaginary adventures, to show him affection without hesitation, etc.). I bought this book for my husband on his second Father’s Day and it gave me heartwarming insight into the father-son relationship. To a son, dad is a superhero; whether they’re tossing a ball or bandaging a skinned knee, dads are a constant source of comfort and safety. This classic makes the perfect gift for dads everywhere – and might just make them tear up a little.
3. Your Baby’s First Word Will Be DADA by Jimmy Fallon (34 pages)
As moms everywhere can attest, there is nothing more frustrating than pouring yourself into a baby only to have its first word be “dada”. I’d like to think it’s because it’s easier to misconstrue their babbling as a first word, but I do remember the moment when my husband exclaimed with excitement, “He said his first word: dad!” and I tried to suppress the little ball of rage in my soul. Comedian and talk show host Jimmy Fallon knows that fathers wage a secret campaign to ensure that their baby’s first word is “Dada!” But how does it work? In his first foray into children’s books, Jimmy shows parents how in a delightfully illustrated book that dads will love reading to – and with – their little ones.
2. Beautiful Boy: A Father’s Journey Through His Son’s Addiction by David Sheff (352 pages)
I knew as soon as I picked this #1 New York Times bestseller and major motion picture starring Steve Carrell it had the power to wreck me. Based on the author’s experience navigating his son’s addiction to drugs and steps towards recovery, it’s a roller coaster ride not for the faint of heart. What had happened to my beautiful boy? To our family? What did I do wrong? Those are the wrenching questions that haunted David Sheff’s journey as his once joyous and funny boy grows up into a young adult addicted to crystal meth. It’s a worst-case scenario for parents, knowing your child needs help but walking that fine balance between support and enablement. Which is why, as a journalist, David researches every treatment that might save his son, while refusing to give up on him.
1. Things My Son Needs to Know about the World by Fredrik Backman (193 pages)
Among his many pearls of wisdom, my father’s greatest life lesson is that kids don’t come with instructions. I heard it time and again growing up, “You didn’t come with a manual, you know?” And I didn’t know… until I had a son of my own. Five years in, and among the many things I’ve learned, I don’t know as much as I thought. Parenthood consists of pretty much winging it every day. Filled with wit and wisdom, I found it a refreshing and humourous take on the everyday (“What You Need to Know About IKEA”), while addressing life’s deeper questions (“What You Need to Know About God and Airports”), and what it means to be a parent – knowing one day you’re going to have to let go and trust that you did your best (“What You Need to Know About Why I Hold Your Hand a Little Too Tight”). While I expected the laughs, I was also touched more than once by his sincerity and introspection. Check out my previous review here.
Here’s to the guiding light that shows us the way
I, for one, wouldn’t be who or where I am today if it wasn’t for the love, support, and unyielding guidance from the guy I’m lucky to call dad. A dedicated role model can impact a child’s life in positive ways and I’m blessed to live through it a second time around while watching my husband guide and teach our son.
So, dads, a huge thank you for all you’ve done and continue to do to keep us safe, empower us, and help us navigate what is truly an uncertain world. We are who we are in part because of you.
Is there a book about dads that’s made an impact on you? Let us know by emailing us here!
Andrea Querido is a 40-ish book-loving, introverted word nerd who’s passionate about connection, self-care, personal growth, creating community and, of course, books!
Favourite book: To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Favourite brunch spot: Anywhere I don’t have to cook.
