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Wisdom of Our Fathers: Lessons and Letters from Daughters and Sons
What does it really mean to be a good father? What did your father tell you, that has stayed with you throughout your life? Was there a lesson from him, a story, or a moment that helped to make you who you are? Is there a special memory that makes you smile when you least expect it?
After the publication of Tim Russert’s number one New York Times bestseller about his father, Big Russ & Me, he received an avalanche of letters from daughters and sons who wanted to tell him about their own fathers, most of whom were not superdads or heroes but ordinary men who were remembered and cherished for some of their best moments–of advice, tenderness, strength, honor, discipline, and occasional eccentricity.
Most of these daughters and sons were eager to express the gratitude they had carried with them through the years. Others wanted to share lessons and memories and, most important, pass them down to their own children.
This book is for all fathers, young or old, who can learn from the men in these pages how to get it right, and to understand that sometimes it is the little gestures that can make the big difference for your child. For some in this book, the appreciation came later than they would have liked. But as Wisdom of Our Fathers reminds us, it is never too late to embrace it.
From the father who coached his daughter in sports (and life), attending every meet, game, performance, and tournament, to the daughter who, after a fifteen-year estrangement, learned to make peace with her difficult father just before he died, to the son who came, at last, to appreciate the silent way his father could show affection, Wisdom of Our Fathers shares rewarding lessons, immeasurable gifts, and lasting values.
Heartfelt, humorous, engaging, irresistibly readable, and bound to bring back memories of unforgettable moments with our own fathers, Tim Russert’s new book is not only a fitting companion to his own marvelous memoir, but also a celebration of the positive qualities passed down from generation to generation.
From the Hardcover edition.
After the publication of Tim Russert’s number one New York Times bestseller about his father, Big Russ & Me, he received an avalanche of letters from daughters and sons who wanted to tell him about their own fathers, most of whom were not superdads or heroes but ordinary men who were remembered and cherished for some of their best moments–of advice, tenderness, strength, honor, discipline, and occasional eccentricity.
Most of these daughters and sons were eager to express the gratitude they had carried with them through the years. Others wanted to share lessons and memories and, most important, pass them down to their own children.
This book is for all fathers, young or old, who can learn from the men in these pages how to get it right, and to understand that sometimes it is the little gestures that can make the big difference for your child. For some in this book, the appreciation came later than they would have liked. But as Wisdom of Our Fathers reminds us, it is never too late to embrace it.
From the father who coached his daughter in sports (and life), attending every meet, game, performance, and tournament, to the daughter who, after a fifteen-year estrangement, learned to make peace with her difficult father just before he died, to the son who came, at last, to appreciate the silent way his father could show affection, Wisdom of Our Fathers shares rewarding lessons, immeasurable gifts, and lasting values.
Heartfelt, humorous, engaging, irresistibly readable, and bound to bring back memories of unforgettable moments with our own fathers, Tim Russert’s new book is not only a fitting companion to his own marvelous memoir, but also a celebration of the positive qualities passed down from generation to generation.
From the Hardcover edition.
Audio CD
First published January 1, 2006
69 people are currently reading
2026 people want to read
About the author
Tim Russert
14 books24 followersTimothy John Russert, Jr. was an American journalist who had hosted NBC's Meet the Press since 1991. He was the Washington Bureau Chief for NBC News, and hosted Tim Russert, a weekly interview program on MSNBC. He was also a frequent correspondent and guest on other NBC News programs, such as The Today Show and Hardball. He co-hosted the network's presidential Election Night coverage. He also presented the polling results of the NBC News/Wall Street Journal survey on the NBC Nightly News alongside the anchor of the show.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 242 reviews
May 22, 2021
Is There a Better Book You Can Buy for Father's Day for a Father (yours, your children's, your brother, your best friend)?
No, but I Welcome You to Try to Prove Me Wrong
I bought and read this book, put together by the late Tim Russert, not long after it was originally published about a month before Father's Day 2007. At the time my kids were 8. I needed the book like the grass needs the Sun and the rain. I was as deeply impacted by this book as any non-fiction I have ever read; I have never looked at fatherhood the same.
I also bought the audiobook edition. I recall a couple of times listening to it on my way home from work and being so affected I couldn't stop the tears from flowing. It was embarrassing. I share this here in hopes that maybe one or two of you get this book because I assure you it was a life-changer for me in opening my eyes to how important I was and am to my children in what I say and do, and how thankful I am for my father.
It's composed of letters written by sons and daughters about their fathers, some passed and some still alive, some great dads and some not so good to whom the child has come to a forgiveness. They were penned and sent to Russert after he had written a book in tribute to his father. The writers all said they felt compelled to share their stories of their fathers. The book contains the best of these letters.
No, but I Welcome You to Try to Prove Me Wrong
I bought and read this book, put together by the late Tim Russert, not long after it was originally published about a month before Father's Day 2007. At the time my kids were 8. I needed the book like the grass needs the Sun and the rain. I was as deeply impacted by this book as any non-fiction I have ever read; I have never looked at fatherhood the same.
I also bought the audiobook edition. I recall a couple of times listening to it on my way home from work and being so affected I couldn't stop the tears from flowing. It was embarrassing. I share this here in hopes that maybe one or two of you get this book because I assure you it was a life-changer for me in opening my eyes to how important I was and am to my children in what I say and do, and how thankful I am for my father.
It's composed of letters written by sons and daughters about their fathers, some passed and some still alive, some great dads and some not so good to whom the child has come to a forgiveness. They were penned and sent to Russert after he had written a book in tribute to his father. The writers all said they felt compelled to share their stories of their fathers. The book contains the best of these letters.
July 14, 2012
I am actually published in this book...a story about my hero...my dad. What a thrill!
December 24, 2007
This book was a very enjoyable read--I laughed, I cried and I learned a few things, too. Although I always knew MY DAD was the BEST dad in the world :-)), it was nice to hear about others that shared that title! The historical perspective the stories offer is very interesting and help explain why some men respond the way they do in relationships. Understanding this could certainly put a different spin on things as many had concluded in the book. I fortunately never had to wonder whether my dad loved me or not--it was evident everyday in everything he did.
July 10, 2009
Why I Read this Book: The importance of a father and his lessons can never be appreciated enough. This reminded me of how grateful so many of us should be.
Topics Covered:
* The importance of family and relationships
* Showing gratitude and appreciation
* Removing negative emotions
Review:
Few of us know a stronger or more unique bond than that with our fathers. As I read through this book, I experienced just about every emotion on the map from happiness to sadness to gratitude to excitement and even a bit of regret, to name a few. Think back and try to remember a book that elicited such a range of emotions. I could not think of a better read to bring to your attention just after Thanksgiving as we get into the holidays.
A great friend, father and mentor of mine recommend this book to me a few years ago. He mentioned how only after getting pages into it, did the tears start streaming down his face. I was used to getting business book recommendations from him so this one struck me as a bit unique. I suspect that as fathers, this book will have an even stronger emotional effect than on sons and daughters but for now I will only be coming from the perspective of a son. Although after reading, I look forward to this perspective changing.
Tim Russert has the reputation as an amazing father and an amazing son. He wrote this book as a tribute to his father “Big Russ” as a follow on to his first book Big Russ and Me. The book takes an interesting style in that the author has written very little of it. Instead, the majority is stories about fathers around the nation, written by sons, daughters, fathers and mothers. The neat thing is that with stories covering the happy times, the sad times and everything in between, most any reader can relate to at least a story or two. The lessons learned through relationships with fathers are indeed endless, yet so often we don’t realize them until much later.
Some lessons that stood out were:
* Keeping your word
* Staying true to yourself
* Showing the people in your life your appreciation
* Honesty and integrity over all else
* A father’s love for his mother
* Not taking love or its expression for granted
* Creating a family full of friendship
As I experienced Thanksgiving week last week (for my family and for me, it has always been more of a week-long celebration), I thought back on what meant the most in my life. There was no doubt that my family came first. And having a look back through this book reminded me specifically of my dad, who is still a great friend and teacher of mine, and it gave me this feeling of incredible gratitude. He (and my mother) has taught me some of the most fundamental building blocks of my life; be it integrity, focus, the importance of family, patience, as well as countless business lessons. I see more each day how incredibly grand the role of a father is.
As always, there is a ton to think about over the next month as we move through Thanksgiving and the holiday season. Many of us get caught up in our own individual goals for the year and being sure we can call this year a successful one. While our own goals are at the top of our priority list, I hope you took last week as a moment, day or hopefully longer, to feel, experience and show the gratitude that you have in your life. Gratitude is an amazing emotion. When you feel intense feelings of gratitude, the body and mind cannot experience negative emotions like fear or stress, which so many of us tend to feel at the end of the year. I try to spend at least a few minutes each morning while on a jog or just after I get up, letting all the things I’m grateful for flow through my mind and body. If this is not already a daily ritual of yours, I challenge you to give it a try. You will not believe the experience.
I am convinced that everyone has at least something to be grateful for and the majority of us could write an endless list. The key is taking the time to realize those things and focus on why you’re grateful. Sometimes it takes some digging but it’s worth it to experience true gratitude. Wisdom of Our Fathers forces us all to think about one part of our lives that I hope all of us can share. I am not saying that you have to have a perfect relationship with your father. In fact some of us may feel the opposite. But no matter your relationship, think for a minute about what you’ve learned and how you are better because of the effect your father has had on you. It could be your blood father, or a father figure. Or perhaps now you are the father and this book relates you back to your relationship with your son or daughter. Whatever the case may be, take a minute to just be grateful for the hand you were dealt. It will make you better for the day, the month and for the life of the others with whom you interact.
As I get around to writing this review, years after first picking up the book (I try to thumb through it each year), I am saddened to say that it has now become a tribute to Tim and the relationship to his son Luke. Tim passed away only a few months ago, much earlier than he should have. After seeing Luke’s reaction to his passing, in television interviews and articles, it’s clear that a legend has been left and a torch has been passed. In the days after Tim’s death, all Luke could express was gratitude for what his father had created in him.
Sometimes we need a tool to help us realize the things that are right under our nose. Think of this book as a way to reconnect with what’s most important on our journey towards success. I hope you agree that it is the interactions, relationships and learning that set a great life apart from the others. Those are the building blocks that create success and fulfillment. In this instance we focus on the father figure, but this goes for any important figure in your life. I, as much as anyone, understand the importance of a mother as well, and I promise to pay a further tribute to her in a future review. The two go hand in hand and everyday I am grateful for both.
Enjoy the memories these stories bring to life as you read through them. Realize how you relate, and most importantly let yourself be reminded of the people that put you where you are. Take the time to feel and show your gratitude. Both of you will be so much better for the experience.
-Reading for Your Success
Topics Covered:
* The importance of family and relationships
* Showing gratitude and appreciation
* Removing negative emotions
Review:
Few of us know a stronger or more unique bond than that with our fathers. As I read through this book, I experienced just about every emotion on the map from happiness to sadness to gratitude to excitement and even a bit of regret, to name a few. Think back and try to remember a book that elicited such a range of emotions. I could not think of a better read to bring to your attention just after Thanksgiving as we get into the holidays.
A great friend, father and mentor of mine recommend this book to me a few years ago. He mentioned how only after getting pages into it, did the tears start streaming down his face. I was used to getting business book recommendations from him so this one struck me as a bit unique. I suspect that as fathers, this book will have an even stronger emotional effect than on sons and daughters but for now I will only be coming from the perspective of a son. Although after reading, I look forward to this perspective changing.
Tim Russert has the reputation as an amazing father and an amazing son. He wrote this book as a tribute to his father “Big Russ” as a follow on to his first book Big Russ and Me. The book takes an interesting style in that the author has written very little of it. Instead, the majority is stories about fathers around the nation, written by sons, daughters, fathers and mothers. The neat thing is that with stories covering the happy times, the sad times and everything in between, most any reader can relate to at least a story or two. The lessons learned through relationships with fathers are indeed endless, yet so often we don’t realize them until much later.
Some lessons that stood out were:
* Keeping your word
* Staying true to yourself
* Showing the people in your life your appreciation
* Honesty and integrity over all else
* A father’s love for his mother
* Not taking love or its expression for granted
* Creating a family full of friendship
As I experienced Thanksgiving week last week (for my family and for me, it has always been more of a week-long celebration), I thought back on what meant the most in my life. There was no doubt that my family came first. And having a look back through this book reminded me specifically of my dad, who is still a great friend and teacher of mine, and it gave me this feeling of incredible gratitude. He (and my mother) has taught me some of the most fundamental building blocks of my life; be it integrity, focus, the importance of family, patience, as well as countless business lessons. I see more each day how incredibly grand the role of a father is.
As always, there is a ton to think about over the next month as we move through Thanksgiving and the holiday season. Many of us get caught up in our own individual goals for the year and being sure we can call this year a successful one. While our own goals are at the top of our priority list, I hope you took last week as a moment, day or hopefully longer, to feel, experience and show the gratitude that you have in your life. Gratitude is an amazing emotion. When you feel intense feelings of gratitude, the body and mind cannot experience negative emotions like fear or stress, which so many of us tend to feel at the end of the year. I try to spend at least a few minutes each morning while on a jog or just after I get up, letting all the things I’m grateful for flow through my mind and body. If this is not already a daily ritual of yours, I challenge you to give it a try. You will not believe the experience.
I am convinced that everyone has at least something to be grateful for and the majority of us could write an endless list. The key is taking the time to realize those things and focus on why you’re grateful. Sometimes it takes some digging but it’s worth it to experience true gratitude. Wisdom of Our Fathers forces us all to think about one part of our lives that I hope all of us can share. I am not saying that you have to have a perfect relationship with your father. In fact some of us may feel the opposite. But no matter your relationship, think for a minute about what you’ve learned and how you are better because of the effect your father has had on you. It could be your blood father, or a father figure. Or perhaps now you are the father and this book relates you back to your relationship with your son or daughter. Whatever the case may be, take a minute to just be grateful for the hand you were dealt. It will make you better for the day, the month and for the life of the others with whom you interact.
As I get around to writing this review, years after first picking up the book (I try to thumb through it each year), I am saddened to say that it has now become a tribute to Tim and the relationship to his son Luke. Tim passed away only a few months ago, much earlier than he should have. After seeing Luke’s reaction to his passing, in television interviews and articles, it’s clear that a legend has been left and a torch has been passed. In the days after Tim’s death, all Luke could express was gratitude for what his father had created in him.
Sometimes we need a tool to help us realize the things that are right under our nose. Think of this book as a way to reconnect with what’s most important on our journey towards success. I hope you agree that it is the interactions, relationships and learning that set a great life apart from the others. Those are the building blocks that create success and fulfillment. In this instance we focus on the father figure, but this goes for any important figure in your life. I, as much as anyone, understand the importance of a mother as well, and I promise to pay a further tribute to her in a future review. The two go hand in hand and everyday I am grateful for both.
Enjoy the memories these stories bring to life as you read through them. Realize how you relate, and most importantly let yourself be reminded of the people that put you where you are. Take the time to feel and show your gratitude. Both of you will be so much better for the experience.
-Reading for Your Success
January 21, 2019
I guess I got this book by accident thinking it was the other Tim Russert book about his father. This is a book of letters about lots of random people’s fathers and reads like chicken soup for the soul. It wasn’t a great use of my time.
All of the stories aren't necessarily happy either. Some of the letters are about very unideal fathers. I had a biological father who wasn't involved in my life, nor did he contribute child support. I also had a stepfather who was an amazingly involved father and kind soul who passed away in 2010. Even with the diversity of my personal experience, I didn't get a lot from the book.
All of the stories aren't necessarily happy either. Some of the letters are about very unideal fathers. I had a biological father who wasn't involved in my life, nor did he contribute child support. I also had a stepfather who was an amazingly involved father and kind soul who passed away in 2010. Even with the diversity of my personal experience, I didn't get a lot from the book.
November 27, 2024
Following the publication of his memoir Big Russ & Me: Father and Son: Lessons of Life, Tim Russert received a deluge of letters from across the country with memories of their own fathers. He's compiled the best of them and published them in this jewel. Some of these fathers have passed, some are still alive. Some were wonderful dads, while others were not, or at least not when their kids were growing up. All of these dads have something to say - funny, touching, heartfelt. This is a perfect book for dipping into as the excerpts are not long and the book can be read at your leisure.
Quotes I liked:
...you never really know how your words or your actions will affect your children. What will they say about you when you're gone? What moment will they remember? What will they tell their children about you?
...the most precious things a father can provide are time, attention, and love.
If real estate is about location, location, location, fatherhood is about time, time, time...the best moments are the spontaneous ones when nothing much is happening. You can't create those moments, but you can encourage them and the way to do that is simply by being there. Every moment you spend with your child could be the one that really matters.
Small moments accumulate and last a lifetime, and what's more, they get carried on into the next generation.
Some values are taught with words...others, like honor, are transmitted mostly by example.
Brains are like muscles...you can hire them by the hour. The only thing not for sale is character.
Quotes I liked:
...you never really know how your words or your actions will affect your children. What will they say about you when you're gone? What moment will they remember? What will they tell their children about you?
...the most precious things a father can provide are time, attention, and love.
If real estate is about location, location, location, fatherhood is about time, time, time...the best moments are the spontaneous ones when nothing much is happening. You can't create those moments, but you can encourage them and the way to do that is simply by being there. Every moment you spend with your child could be the one that really matters.
Small moments accumulate and last a lifetime, and what's more, they get carried on into the next generation.
Some values are taught with words...others, like honor, are transmitted mostly by example.
Brains are like muscles...you can hire them by the hour. The only thing not for sale is character.
July 9, 2009
A compilation of letters people sent in response to his earlier book "Big Russ & Me", these stories are funny, sad, poignant and heart-warming. The chapters are grouped by theme or topic, such as Baseball, The Protector, and Missing Dads. Tim Russert's charm comes through in his introductions to each section.
I took a long time reading this book because I found myself reacting very emotionally to so many of the stories. I found myself reflecting on my own imperfect relationship with my father. I would get lost in my own memories, which I consider a recommendation to all.
Tim wrote "We are obligated, therefore, to take care of ourselves and attend to our health. The solemn facts of life, and the painful knowledge that it will end, remind us that time is precious." How sadly prophetic.
I had the pleasure of seeing Tim Russert in person when he moderated a political discussion in NYC. He asked hard questions and pushed for answers. He was never mean or argumentative. This made him stand out from today's screaming talking heads. I miss him.
I miss my Dad, too.
I took a long time reading this book because I found myself reacting very emotionally to so many of the stories. I found myself reflecting on my own imperfect relationship with my father. I would get lost in my own memories, which I consider a recommendation to all.
Tim wrote "We are obligated, therefore, to take care of ourselves and attend to our health. The solemn facts of life, and the painful knowledge that it will end, remind us that time is precious." How sadly prophetic.
I had the pleasure of seeing Tim Russert in person when he moderated a political discussion in NYC. He asked hard questions and pushed for answers. He was never mean or argumentative. This made him stand out from today's screaming talking heads. I miss him.
I miss my Dad, too.
February 18, 2012
What an inspiring book! I adored this book. The letters from children about their fathers were very touching. My favorite quote was on page 112 and it was "Grief is the price we pay for love." I will save this book to reread when I feel sentimental about my own parents.
April 22, 2009
Being a life long Republican I was a little leary of reading this book, however it was excellent and I would recommend it to everyone.
December 23, 2020
Some of the letters about fathers from their kids were really good. Others were meh. I am a big fan of Tim Russert and it's especially poignant that he died not long after the book was published. I'm sure it will strike everyone differently. I liked the fact that he put the letters into categories.
June 6, 2013
With Father's Day around the corner, and looking for something to read, I picked this book off my husband's shelf...it had been a Father's Day gift a few years ago. I was always a Tim Russert fan from his Meet the Press days and I vividly remember being sadly struck by his untimely, sudden death a few years ago.
This book doesn't disappoint. It is a great collection of letters and thoughts about fathers from readers of Russert's Book "Big Russ and Me."
Broken down into thematic sections, the book has recollections of fathers from all walks of life and all stripes.
Overall, a great read.
This book doesn't disappoint. It is a great collection of letters and thoughts about fathers from readers of Russert's Book "Big Russ and Me."
Broken down into thematic sections, the book has recollections of fathers from all walks of life and all stripes.
Overall, a great read.
Currently reading
December 8, 2009Tim has created 21 categories of people's comments about their fathers. If I had written mine, they would fall into the "Forgiveness" chapter. Surprisingly, most are very well written - perhaps well edited by Random House's editor. I laughed and I cried. Many articles amazed me by their love or lack thereof of their fathers. All in all, a very interesting view of intra-family relations.
October 6, 2020
I enjoyed this book for the most part. It was interesting reading stories of fathers and families, and their struggles and happiness. We live in such a different world now, most of the entries in this book took place in the 50's through the 80's, and that was a totally different generation. Nonet...
May 7, 2023
RICK “SHAQ” GOLDSTEIN SAYS: AN UNBELIEVABLE COLLECTION OF HEART RENDING FATHER AND SON/DAUGHTER LETTERS FROM PEOPLE LIKE YOU AND ME!
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First of all, reviewers should not grade this book with stars, they should review it, based on how many boxes of tissues, they used, while reading it. Using my recommended rating system, I rate this book “FIVE BOXES OF TISSUES”! My Dad proved to me, that you can be a Father, and a best friend, and because of him, I always wanted to be a Father. By the time my Dad was 60 years old, he had complete Kidney failure, and was on dialysis 4 hours a day, 3 days a week, and he never missed a day of work. My Dad then had heart problems, and they had to remove his aortic valve, and since he had no kidneys, they couldn’t use a pig’s valve, because of fear of infection. I signed a release form for him, authorizing him, to be one of the first people, to use the “Saint Jude’s” valve. He went “code blue” during the surgery, and was in intensive care. One of the nurse’s told me, that my Dad said he couldn’t give up, because he couldn’t let his son’s down. He made it through that, and in a few months went back to work. Then he started having trouble with his legs. And now, he was a 64 year old man, with no kidney’s, and an artificial valve, and then, he had to have separate surgeries, that included a bypass in the leg that didn’t work, amputated his toes, that didn’t work, then amputated his leg up to his knee. He learned how to walk with a prosthetic leg, and he eventually made it back to work. And then, the other leg started to go, and he was back in intensive care. At the same time, my son Justin was being born in another hospital. No one from my side of the family, was there, because they were at another hospital with my Dad. That night, was the absolute, definition, of bittersweet for me. I couldn’t wait to show my Dad, the greatest Dad in the world, his new grandson, but due to my Dad’s condition, and worries of infection I couldn’t bring my son in to see him. As my Dad continued, his irretrievable descent to death, I had to try something, to make sure my son, made it into my Dad’s hands. Though it was a nice sunny southern California day, I came to the hospital in a long raincoat, and hid my 4-month-old son Justin, under my coat, and walked quickly into the hospital, and into my Father’s room. I took my infant son, out from under my coat, and put him in my Dad’s arms. My Father was so weak; he could only hold Justin, for a matter of seconds. As he handed my son back to me, that was the only time, in my entire life, that I saw my Dad cry! With tears, streaming down his face, he said: “What kind
of Grandfather am I, that I can’t even hold my own Grandson?” I said: “Dad, you’re the greatest Father and Grandfather in the world, and hugged and kissed him!” A few days later, at the age of 64, the greatest Father and Grandfather, finally gave up his fight.
Son – Rick Goldstein – President Business Software Sales
Father – William Goldstein – Dress Contractor – (1916-1980)
Grandson – Justin Goldstein (1980)
If you’re wondering why an open letter like this, would be presented in this review, it’s because, that’s what Tim Russert’s book is. It’s a collection of letters, sent to him, by sons and daughters, describing special moments with their Father’s. The letters are not, from famous people, but from people like you and me. I didn’t know people were sending letters to Tim, or I would have. If I have touched any of you, who have read this review, I recommend you do what I did. You’ll feel better, about yourself, and feel proud, that you shared your wonderful Father with the world. Your letter may not be in Tim Russert’s book, but I would love to read them, and I’m sure many other people would too. Feel free to contact me, however you can, through this sites features. And if my letter touched you, then so will Mr. Russert’s book.
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First of all, reviewers should not grade this book with stars, they should review it, based on how many boxes of tissues, they used, while reading it. Using my recommended rating system, I rate this book “FIVE BOXES OF TISSUES”! My Dad proved to me, that you can be a Father, and a best friend, and because of him, I always wanted to be a Father. By the time my Dad was 60 years old, he had complete Kidney failure, and was on dialysis 4 hours a day, 3 days a week, and he never missed a day of work. My Dad then had heart problems, and they had to remove his aortic valve, and since he had no kidneys, they couldn’t use a pig’s valve, because of fear of infection. I signed a release form for him, authorizing him, to be one of the first people, to use the “Saint Jude’s” valve. He went “code blue” during the surgery, and was in intensive care. One of the nurse’s told me, that my Dad said he couldn’t give up, because he couldn’t let his son’s down. He made it through that, and in a few months went back to work. Then he started having trouble with his legs. And now, he was a 64 year old man, with no kidney’s, and an artificial valve, and then, he had to have separate surgeries, that included a bypass in the leg that didn’t work, amputated his toes, that didn’t work, then amputated his leg up to his knee. He learned how to walk with a prosthetic leg, and he eventually made it back to work. And then, the other leg started to go, and he was back in intensive care. At the same time, my son Justin was being born in another hospital. No one from my side of the family, was there, because they were at another hospital with my Dad. That night, was the absolute, definition, of bittersweet for me. I couldn’t wait to show my Dad, the greatest Dad in the world, his new grandson, but due to my Dad’s condition, and worries of infection I couldn’t bring my son in to see him. As my Dad continued, his irretrievable descent to death, I had to try something, to make sure my son, made it into my Dad’s hands. Though it was a nice sunny southern California day, I came to the hospital in a long raincoat, and hid my 4-month-old son Justin, under my coat, and walked quickly into the hospital, and into my Father’s room. I took my infant son, out from under my coat, and put him in my Dad’s arms. My Father was so weak; he could only hold Justin, for a matter of seconds. As he handed my son back to me, that was the only time, in my entire life, that I saw my Dad cry! With tears, streaming down his face, he said: “What kind
of Grandfather am I, that I can’t even hold my own Grandson?” I said: “Dad, you’re the greatest Father and Grandfather in the world, and hugged and kissed him!” A few days later, at the age of 64, the greatest Father and Grandfather, finally gave up his fight.
Son – Rick Goldstein – President Business Software Sales
Father – William Goldstein – Dress Contractor – (1916-1980)
Grandson – Justin Goldstein (1980)
If you’re wondering why an open letter like this, would be presented in this review, it’s because, that’s what Tim Russert’s book is. It’s a collection of letters, sent to him, by sons and daughters, describing special moments with their Father’s. The letters are not, from famous people, but from people like you and me. I didn’t know people were sending letters to Tim, or I would have. If I have touched any of you, who have read this review, I recommend you do what I did. You’ll feel better, about yourself, and feel proud, that you shared your wonderful Father with the world. Your letter may not be in Tim Russert’s book, but I would love to read them, and I’m sure many other people would too. Feel free to contact me, however you can, through this sites features. And if my letter touched you, then so will Mr. Russert’s book.
October 7, 2023
"There was silence, and then Dad said, in a choked voice, 'Don't you know I just want to be in the same room with you?' "
"He loved my sister and me more than anything, and he often told us so."
"He taught me to accept what life gives us."
"He took my loss over absolute and replaced it with absolute love."
"Dad's hand did so much. He used them at work, of course, to lift trash cans and drive his truck, but at home they had different purpose."
"It's never to late to begin the process of becoming the father you want to be, the one you always wished you had."
"when a father is fortunate, his daughter forgives him."
"mortality also reinforces the idea that we owe it to our children to let them remain our children for as long as possible."
"grief, he wrote, is the price we pay for love."
"when my sisters and i would tell our fortunes, we'd make up lists of possible cities we'd live in, how many children we'd have, and the qualities of our future husbands. 'LIKE DADDY' was always on the list."
"He'd get up in the morning, come down for breakfast, and remind us to say good morning to Mr. Sun. All there years later, I finally realized, He was the sun."
"He loved my sister and me more than anything, and he often told us so."
"He taught me to accept what life gives us."
"He took my loss over absolute and replaced it with absolute love."
"Dad's hand did so much. He used them at work, of course, to lift trash cans and drive his truck, but at home they had different purpose."
"It's never to late to begin the process of becoming the father you want to be, the one you always wished you had."
"when a father is fortunate, his daughter forgives him."
"mortality also reinforces the idea that we owe it to our children to let them remain our children for as long as possible."
"grief, he wrote, is the price we pay for love."
"when my sisters and i would tell our fortunes, we'd make up lists of possible cities we'd live in, how many children we'd have, and the qualities of our future husbands. 'LIKE DADDY' was always on the list."
"He'd get up in the morning, come down for breakfast, and remind us to say good morning to Mr. Sun. All there years later, I finally realized, He was the sun."
March 6, 2018
I found this book on a heap of discounted, used books in one of the malls in Jakarta. The title promises wisdom, and I bought it hoping that I could learn some. I know my naive self needs wisdom more than I've ever been, and boy this book gave them - only in an unexpected way.
As the title points out, this book consists of lessons and memories from daughters and sons across of the United States. Divided by a certain theme, the contents of each chapter brought too much emotion for me. I was planning to finish this book on the weekend, but I ended up reading it in two weeks. The content drove me to contemplate whether I will be able to live up to their standard, should I become one. I should say, most of the fathers in this book were admirable.
I enjoyed reading this book, and would recommend this to anyone who's looking for a light read, filled with bits of wisdom.
P.S. It's a tearjerker.
As the title points out, this book consists of lessons and memories from daughters and sons across of the United States. Divided by a certain theme, the contents of each chapter brought too much emotion for me. I was planning to finish this book on the weekend, but I ended up reading it in two weeks. The content drove me to contemplate whether I will be able to live up to their standard, should I become one. I should say, most of the fathers in this book were admirable.
I enjoyed reading this book, and would recommend this to anyone who's looking for a light read, filled with bits of wisdom.
P.S. It's a tearjerker.
September 30, 2020
I concur wholeheartedly with the comment on the book jacket that reads, "Heartfelt, humorous, engaging, irresistibly readable, and bound to bring back memories of unforgettable memories with our own fathers."
The lessons and letters vary in length and sentiment, but they all touch the emotions. They are divided into twenty categories, so you can pick the book up and read a chapter or two between other jobs. But you'll be drawn back to the book, and you will want to read certain entries aloud to you best friends.
This book is the perfect gift for any father who loves his children.
Hope Irvin Marston, author of THE WALLS HAVE EARS: A BLACK SPY IN THE CONFEDERATE WHITE HOUSE, a New York State Charlotte Ward 2021 Nominee.
The lessons and letters vary in length and sentiment, but they all touch the emotions. They are divided into twenty categories, so you can pick the book up and read a chapter or two between other jobs. But you'll be drawn back to the book, and you will want to read certain entries aloud to you best friends.
This book is the perfect gift for any father who loves his children.
Hope Irvin Marston, author of THE WALLS HAVE EARS: A BLACK SPY IN THE CONFEDERATE WHITE HOUSE, a New York State Charlotte Ward 2021 Nominee.
February 8, 2018
After writing his book about his father, Tim Russert received thousands of letters from people detailing their own relationships with their fathers. This book is a compilation of just a small amount of those letters, with his own thoughts and feelings intermixed.
As someone who did not have the best relationship with her own father, I found myself moved by most of the letters and stories. I found myself sniffling at times and other times experiencing almost a envious or jealous anger that these folks had such a great relationship.
This was a short but sweet book that I am glad I listened to for the lessons I learned from these good folks and their dads.
As someone who did not have the best relationship with her own father, I found myself moved by most of the letters and stories. I found myself sniffling at times and other times experiencing almost a envious or jealous anger that these folks had such a great relationship.
This was a short but sweet book that I am glad I listened to for the lessons I learned from these good folks and their dads.
January 4, 2020
I should have read this while playing Plablo. Nevertheless, a good book.
Notes:
"Setbacks are just opportunities to rethink your position."
"Grief is the price we pay for love."
"Love people for who they are and forgive them for who they are not."
In the old days people born out of wedlock had the word illegitimate stamps on their birth certificates.
"Losing doesn't build character it reveals it."
"If you got something you didn't work for, then someone worked for something they didn't get."
"Not everyone has to be a lighthouse. Some need to be candles."
Notes:
"Setbacks are just opportunities to rethink your position."
"Grief is the price we pay for love."
"Love people for who they are and forgive them for who they are not."
In the old days people born out of wedlock had the word illegitimate stamps on their birth certificates.
"Losing doesn't build character it reveals it."
"If you got something you didn't work for, then someone worked for something they didn't get."
"Not everyone has to be a lighthouse. Some need to be candles."
July 28, 2022
I read one magazine article by Tim Russert many years ago and it made such an impression on me, I couldn’t pass up this book when I saw his name. This is a book full of stories about fathers. Russert includes stories about his own father to introduce each chapter. Having a somewhat complicated relationship with my own father, I wasn’t sure I would like this book but I did. Fathers come in all shapes and sizes, good and bad; some of these stories helped me appreciate my own. Easy read, inspirational, somewhat akin to the Chicken Soup for the soul books
October 16, 2024
What a beautiful book. I want to pass this on to my friends and family. I am an extremely lucky guy to have had two excellent fathers: my Dad and my Father-In-Law. My Dad always had a love of music. He taught me how to swim, ride a bike, drive a car and be a responsible hard working man. My Father-In-Law, who I also called Dad, taught me through living example of what it takes to be a family-first man. I think of them often as I raise my own two great young sons, I can only hope I did some things right that would make my two Dad's proud.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 18, 2018
Collection of letters from sons & daughters about their fathers broken into categories. If you're a feeling person you will be touched by so many of the stories. Found myself wondering where my stories or rememberances about my dad would fit. Tim's introduction to each category set the perfect stage to prepare the reader. I especially liked the last two sections of how children felt about their dad and sayings of dads.
December 22, 2021
Read this as I want to write about my Dad and wanted to see what Russert had written as well as others. Brought memories to the forefront, ideas I need to include in my research and writing about my Dad. Interesting to read the viewpoints of others especially one family from eight children, all written as adults.
Will definitely re-read and take notes. Wish Russert were still alive so I could pick his brain as he also wrote about his Dad in Big Russ and Me.
Will definitely re-read and take notes. Wish Russert were still alive so I could pick his brain as he also wrote about his Dad in Big Russ and Me.
July 15, 2017
Enjoyable follow-up to the late "Meet the Press" host's book on his father, " Big Russ and Me." It was compiled from letters written to Russert from people who read his book about their fathers. Some are short, some are long, some are touching, some are funny. The letters are interspersed by commentary and memories from Russert, who reads the audio book himself.
March 9, 2019
My mom found this book on the book exchange rack at her library. It's a sort of follow up book to Russert's book about his father. Many people sent him stories about their fathers after reading his book. Some of those stories are compiled here. There are many and you should find at least one to touch your heart. It made me miss my dad and my stepdad.
October 14, 2021
I think Tim Russert's first book abut his father should be mandatory reading for every new dad. This 2nd book has short excerpts people sent Tim after reading his 1st. The stories range from funny to sad to inspiring. This book drives home how influential dad can be on a son or daughter, both good and bad. It setup a good roadmap for the father I'd like to be for my kids.
June 3, 2023
Leave it to Tim Russert to gather stories of trials, hopes, achievements, wisdom, and disappointments-just some of the things that happen in this thing we call life. With this collection of vignettes, Russert introduces these sons and daughters who had memories of their dads worth sharing. Oh, so worth sharing! This is a gem.
April 15, 2024
This is a collection of stories from many submitters about their fathers. It reminds me of James Patterson's "E.R. Nurses," though this feels more broad (and less powerful). Some of these anecdotes were touching, while some seemed duplicative. I enjoyed this and expect anyone else would, too, assuming they find reward in thinking about their fathers.
October 27, 2025
Russert was such a good guy in so many ways. His presentation of the news as actual news instead of offering commentary on everything. His book was a brilliant sharing of personal stories of his own, and contributions from other recognizable figures, all through the lense of relationships with dad. Was a great read.
December 30, 2018
Even years after his death I still desperately miss Tim russert's view on modern politics and life in general. this book however is a collection of stories sent to Tim over the years regarding fatherhood and what it's like to be a good father.
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