You're right, wouldn't it be nice if all the children/teenagers/people struggling out there had a Grandma and Grandpa to see them through? As well as a recognition of the Russell's that are sent their way through other people (and certainly real Russell's sometimes) by a loving God who IS still there and IS still looking out for all of us.

I liked this story and thought it was a good bookclub pick. There were some pieces of advice from Russell and Grandpa that I highlighted, as they were excellent insight into our egos and self-centered human nature. I did not expect to be as shocked as I was to the anger and hurt of this young man, and it made me think of how many Eddie's there are out there without such a support network. I do remember being his age and being full of selfish desires and having high expectations, only to be let down. The hard-knocks school of life can be the best teacher sometimes. Throw God in for the path to atonement and redemption, and you will see the beauty in your life.