- A quick and simple read
- The stories are honest but not overly sentimental
- There is much of humor and warmth about fatherhood
- Some of the essays are short on substance
- Too few stories are written from a father's perspective
- Big Shoes is an entertaining collection of 38 essays and short stories about the importance of fathers to their children.
- The stories and essays are authored by well know celebrities, journalists and sports figures who have successful lives.
- Most of the essays are written from a child's perspective of his or her father and what the father taught his child.
- Big Shoes is a pleasant and quick read, and will be enjoyed by fathers and children alike.
The authors of the essays include sports figures like Billie Jean King and Vijay Singh, entertainers like Bonnie Raitt, Kris Kristofferson, Jimmy Buffet and Jon Stewart, journalists including Katie Couric and Matt Lower, and personalities such as Craig Newmark (of craigslist.org fame) and Rebecca Walker.
The vast majority of these essays are written from the perspective of a child relating experiences with his or her father. The few written from a father's perspective, most notably from author Winston Groom and comedian Jon Stewart, resonated moST with me. But there is clearly something in this book for everyone, no matter what his feelings about fathers. Big Shoes is a easy read, and one that is great for a quiet afternoon at home. I would recommend reading any of these essays with one of your children to have a fun and memorable storytime experience.
Big Shoes is a meaningful reminder of the importance of a father's role in the lives of his children. I recommend the book highly to any father who wants a gentle reminder of the core values of fathers: responsibility, connection, respect, support and accessibility, with a liberal dose of Al Roker's trademark humor.
