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The Driving Lesson
From Edgar Award-nominated author Ben Rehder:
Charlie Dunbar had big plans for the summer break, but becoming a fugitive was nowhere on the list. Even more unexpected, his partner in crime is his own ailing grandfather. Now they're on the run, trying to make it across the country to see a special kind of doctor, while the world becomes mesmerized by their journey. They are the subject of heated debates on cable news channels. Thousands of people voice their support on Facebook fan pages. And Charlie's own parents appear on live TV to plead for him to come home safely. But Charlie isn't ready yet. He's determined to get his grandfather to Seattle. The only question is, will the police stop him first? **Recommended for ages 13 to adult.**
Charlie Dunbar had big plans for the summer break, but becoming a fugitive was nowhere on the list. Even more unexpected, his partner in crime is his own ailing grandfather. Now they're on the run, trying to make it across the country to see a special kind of doctor, while the world becomes mesmerized by their journey. They are the subject of heated debates on cable news channels. Thousands of people voice their support on Facebook fan pages. And Charlie's own parents appear on live TV to plead for him to come home safely. But Charlie isn't ready yet. He's determined to get his grandfather to Seattle. The only question is, will the police stop him first? **Recommended for ages 13 to adult.**
178 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2012
78 people are currently reading
359 people want to read
About the author
Ben Rehder
74 books272 followersBen Rehder wanted to become a writer ever since he was dropped on his head as a toddler. As he grew into a young adult and the vertigo gradually dissipated, his passion for literature grew. Ben longed to craft the type of soul-stirring prose that would touch people’s lives and help them explore new emotional horizons. But he went to work at an ad agency instead.
Throughout his rewarding and fruitful career in the ad business, Ben has been known to write such imaginative and compelling phrases as “Act now!,” “Limited-time offer,” and “Compatible with today’s rapidly changing network environment.”
However, there eventually came a time when, as unbelievable as it sounds, writing brochures and spec sheets simply wasn’t enough to satisfy Ben’s creative urges. Ben knew: It was time to write a novel.
“But what kind of novel?” Ben asked himself, drawing stares from passersby.
A mystery? A thriller? A work of suspense? Ben had read hundreds of books in these genres and loved them all. But nothing had sparked his creative juices enough to try it himself.
Fate played a hand one day when Ben’s father-in-law tossed him a copy of a Carl Hiaasen novel. And then it hit him. It literally hit him, right in the forehead. When the swelling went down and Ben had a chance to read the book, he discovered a type of fiction he had never experienced before—the comic crime novel! He loved the wacky characters, the zany plots, the interesting writing that threw a good deal of humor into the mix.
So Ben set out to write his own novel. After many grueling minutes in front of a computer, Ben was proud to present Buck Fever. Like many best-selling classics, Buck Fever has lots and lots of verbs, prepositions, adjectives, and the occasional gerund. It was even nominated for the Edgar Award for Best First Novel!
Next came Bone Dry, Flat Crazy, Guilt Trip, Gun Shy, and Holy Moly. Best of all, Ben is now releasing the earlier novels in ebook format at the low low price of just $2.99. What a deal!
Throughout his rewarding and fruitful career in the ad business, Ben has been known to write such imaginative and compelling phrases as “Act now!,” “Limited-time offer,” and “Compatible with today’s rapidly changing network environment.”
However, there eventually came a time when, as unbelievable as it sounds, writing brochures and spec sheets simply wasn’t enough to satisfy Ben’s creative urges. Ben knew: It was time to write a novel.
“But what kind of novel?” Ben asked himself, drawing stares from passersby.
A mystery? A thriller? A work of suspense? Ben had read hundreds of books in these genres and loved them all. But nothing had sparked his creative juices enough to try it himself.
Fate played a hand one day when Ben’s father-in-law tossed him a copy of a Carl Hiaasen novel. And then it hit him. It literally hit him, right in the forehead. When the swelling went down and Ben had a chance to read the book, he discovered a type of fiction he had never experienced before—the comic crime novel! He loved the wacky characters, the zany plots, the interesting writing that threw a good deal of humor into the mix.
So Ben set out to write his own novel. After many grueling minutes in front of a computer, Ben was proud to present Buck Fever. Like many best-selling classics, Buck Fever has lots and lots of verbs, prepositions, adjectives, and the occasional gerund. It was even nominated for the Edgar Award for Best First Novel!
Next came Bone Dry, Flat Crazy, Guilt Trip, Gun Shy, and Holy Moly. Best of all, Ben is now releasing the earlier novels in ebook format at the low low price of just $2.99. What a deal!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
December 16, 2019
On fourteen-year-old Charlie Dunbar’s last day of school before the summer break, his grandfather, Opa, met him at the school gate. Charlie couldn’t work out why Opa was there, but he put his pushbike into the back of Opa’s car and joined him on a long, unexpected and completely eye-opening and emotional journey.
As they travelled across the country, Opa explained to Charlie that he was heading to his doctor; the only thing was, that doctor was in Seattle. The journey attracted the attention of the media; Charlie’s parents were worried and wanted him home - as they travelled and visited famous tourist spots, including the Grand Canyon, Charlie and Opa talked while sharing the driving. But would they make it? The police had to be aware of what they were driving – probably had a way of working out where they were…
The Driving Lesson is my second by Ben Rehder and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Told in Charlie’s voice, the young man who would do something for the grandfather he loved, something that meant the world to the old man – it’s a well written, emotional story. Highly recommended.
As they travelled across the country, Opa explained to Charlie that he was heading to his doctor; the only thing was, that doctor was in Seattle. The journey attracted the attention of the media; Charlie’s parents were worried and wanted him home - as they travelled and visited famous tourist spots, including the Grand Canyon, Charlie and Opa talked while sharing the driving. But would they make it? The police had to be aware of what they were driving – probably had a way of working out where they were…
The Driving Lesson is my second by Ben Rehder and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Told in Charlie’s voice, the young man who would do something for the grandfather he loved, something that meant the world to the old man – it’s a well written, emotional story. Highly recommended.
July 2, 2025
I enjoy Ben Rehder's Roy Ballard series and have read all seven of the books. He has a funny, self-deprecating humor that goes well alongside his intelligent main characters. This young adult book is a departure for me...I don't think I was expecting it to be so clearly YA - would have preferred if the very wise adults weren't always trying to teach Charlie how to behave.
The subject matter is a very serious one so there wasn't a lot of humor. But there was a warm loving grandfather / grandson relationship that almost makes one want to cry. Then it often spilled over into a "teaching moment", where again I was reminded the book wasn't aimed at my age group. Charlie turned out to be very smart on his own accord and could actually teach us some of life's ins and outs.
The subject matter is a very serious one so there wasn't a lot of humor. But there was a warm loving grandfather / grandson relationship that almost makes one want to cry. Then it often spilled over into a "teaching moment", where again I was reminded the book wasn't aimed at my age group. Charlie turned out to be very smart on his own accord and could actually teach us some of life's ins and outs.
October 6, 2020
AUDIOBOOK
OMG what a beautiful and heartbreaking story about a young boy and his father on the road trip of their life after his Grandfather is given a horrible diagnosis. After loosing my Grandad some years ago this is the kind of trip I wish we could have made together and the story of this man and his beloved grandson made me laugh and cry and I did not want it to end.
OMG what a beautiful and heartbreaking story about a young boy and his father on the road trip of their life after his Grandfather is given a horrible diagnosis. After loosing my Grandad some years ago this is the kind of trip I wish we could have made together and the story of this man and his beloved grandson made me laugh and cry and I did not want it to end.
July 8, 2021
This book was totally different from the other Ben Rehder books I've listened to. Charlie is picked up by his grandfather on the last day of school and the story follows their journey to Seattle. A beautiful way to tell what is both a heartbreaking and uplifting story, dealing with difficult issues. With some moral guidance from his grandfather as well, Charlie learns about life on their trip. The book was just the right length, well narrated and beautifully told.
October 15, 2018
I read this as a free Kindle book. Although it is considered young adult, I think it is very appropriate for adults as well because of a very serious issue it deals with---the right to choose to die when faced with a terminal illness.
This is a heartwarming story of a 15 year old boy Charlie and his grandfather, Henry. who drive from Abilene, TX to Seattle, WA. At the beginning of the novel, we find out that Charlie's grandfather has a form of bone cancer and that his condition is terminal. On the last day of school, Charlie's grandfather meets him outside the school and asks Charlie to drive him to a doctor. Since Charlie doesn't have a driver's license and had only recently begun driving lessons with his father, he is pretty nervous about this. However, since he loves his grandfather deeply, he agrees to do it. Hours later, Charlie finds out that his grandfather wants to go all the way to Seattle, and Charlie's parents still have no idea where he is. Eventually, Charlie's parents are informed but Charlie has decided he wants to do this in spite of his parents' displeasure with both him and his grandfather.
On their way to Seattle, Charlie and his grandfather make stops and detours to make sure Charlie seems some places his grandfather thinks he should see. There are a couple of times when it looks like they won't make it to Seattle.
The writing style is definitely geared toward young adults with the expressions and language used at times. However, I found it entertaining. There was no profanity which I appreciated. Charlie and his grandfather are both memorable characters.
I felt like this was a very worthwhile read in spite of its brevity and young adult writing style.
This is a heartwarming story of a 15 year old boy Charlie and his grandfather, Henry. who drive from Abilene, TX to Seattle, WA. At the beginning of the novel, we find out that Charlie's grandfather has a form of bone cancer and that his condition is terminal. On the last day of school, Charlie's grandfather meets him outside the school and asks Charlie to drive him to a doctor. Since Charlie doesn't have a driver's license and had only recently begun driving lessons with his father, he is pretty nervous about this. However, since he loves his grandfather deeply, he agrees to do it. Hours later, Charlie finds out that his grandfather wants to go all the way to Seattle, and Charlie's parents still have no idea where he is. Eventually, Charlie's parents are informed but Charlie has decided he wants to do this in spite of his parents' displeasure with both him and his grandfather.
On their way to Seattle, Charlie and his grandfather make stops and detours to make sure Charlie seems some places his grandfather thinks he should see. There are a couple of times when it looks like they won't make it to Seattle.
The writing style is definitely geared toward young adults with the expressions and language used at times. However, I found it entertaining. There was no profanity which I appreciated. Charlie and his grandfather are both memorable characters.
I felt like this was a very worthwhile read in spite of its brevity and young adult writing style.
October 26, 2018
I read this as a free Kindle book. Although it is considered young adult, I think it is very appropriate for adults as well because of a very serious issue it deals with---the right to choose to die when faced with a terminal illness.
This is a heartwarming story of a 15 year old boy Charlie and his grandfather, Henry. who drive from Abilene, TX to Seattle, WA. At the beginning of the novel, we find out that Charlie's grandfather has a form of bone cancer and that his condition is terminal. On the last day of school, Charlie's grandfather meets him outside the school and asks Charlie to drive him to a doctor. Since Charlie doesn't have a driver's license and had only recently begun driving lessons with his father, he is pretty nervous about this. However, since he loves his grandfather deeply, he agrees to do it. Hours later, Charlie finds out that his grandfather wants to go all the way to Seattle, and Charlie's parents still have no idea where he is. Eventually, Charlie's parents are informed but Charlie has decided he wants to do this in spite of his parents' displeasure with both him and his grandfather.
On their way to Seattle, Charlie and his grandfather make stops and detours to make sure Charlie seems some places his grandfather thinks he should see. There are a couple of times when it looks like they won't make it to Seattle.
The writing style is definitely geared toward young adults with the expressions and language used at times. However, I found it entertaining. There was no profanity which I appreciated. Charlie and his grandfather are both memorable characters.
I felt like this was a very worthwhile read in spite of its brevity and young adult writing style.
This is a heartwarming story of a 15 year old boy Charlie and his grandfather, Henry. who drive from Abilene, TX to Seattle, WA. At the beginning of the novel, we find out that Charlie's grandfather has a form of bone cancer and that his condition is terminal. On the last day of school, Charlie's grandfather meets him outside the school and asks Charlie to drive him to a doctor. Since Charlie doesn't have a driver's license and had only recently begun driving lessons with his father, he is pretty nervous about this. However, since he loves his grandfather deeply, he agrees to do it. Hours later, Charlie finds out that his grandfather wants to go all the way to Seattle, and Charlie's parents still have no idea where he is. Eventually, Charlie's parents are informed but Charlie has decided he wants to do this in spite of his parents' displeasure with both him and his grandfather.
On their way to Seattle, Charlie and his grandfather make stops and detours to make sure Charlie seems some places his grandfather thinks he should see. There are a couple of times when it looks like they won't make it to Seattle.
The writing style is definitely geared toward young adults with the expressions and language used at times. However, I found it entertaining. There was no profanity which I appreciated. Charlie and his grandfather are both memorable characters.
I felt like this was a very worthwhile read in spite of its brevity and young adult writing style.
March 14, 2019
Must read
What would you choose to do? This seems like a good book for young adults to ponder the mysteries of life, after all a young man, on the brink of getting his driver's license, ends up spending a few days alone with his grandfather as his grandfather wins down his last days and shares his final thoughts. But it's not a book about coming off age, and it's not about being young. It's about the choices we make in life. I know there's a game out there now that asks us to put ourselves in different ethical situations. It's kind of like that, but also about being able to understand that other people - even people you love - will completely disagree with you, so with that, what choice will you make? I saw the grand canyon Canyon I was 11 years old. I remember my thought: breath- taking, to literal take your breath and stop it, take it away. And pictures did not do it justice. Makes me want to go back now. But it was a long drive to get there then. Good thing I love road trips. And don't most of us Americans? That's what separates us from most city dwellers and most countries where the majority of people live in cities. We live in our cars. Guess it's only fitting to bury them when they die.
What would you choose to do? This seems like a good book for young adults to ponder the mysteries of life, after all a young man, on the brink of getting his driver's license, ends up spending a few days alone with his grandfather as his grandfather wins down his last days and shares his final thoughts. But it's not a book about coming off age, and it's not about being young. It's about the choices we make in life. I know there's a game out there now that asks us to put ourselves in different ethical situations. It's kind of like that, but also about being able to understand that other people - even people you love - will completely disagree with you, so with that, what choice will you make? I saw the grand canyon Canyon I was 11 years old. I remember my thought: breath- taking, to literal take your breath and stop it, take it away. And pictures did not do it justice. Makes me want to go back now. But it was a long drive to get there then. Good thing I love road trips. And don't most of us Americans? That's what separates us from most city dwellers and most countries where the majority of people live in cities. We live in our cars. Guess it's only fitting to bury them when they die.
November 11, 2018
Written for a YA audience, the story is appropriately told through the eyes of 14 YO Charlie's view point. And it is a good story with a fabulous premise. Boy and his grandfather on a road trip together at the end of the grandfather's life. It raises complex issues and neither pontificates nor really argues for a particular POV, which is good. I found the writing, however, uninspired. I nearly gave up on it several times. However, by the end, because it did not serve up a trite easy answer to the complex issue raised, I was pleasantly glad I did not give up.
September 1, 2019
Rehder at his best!
A touching tale of a road trip from Texas to the Northwest with teenager and his grandfather. There are side trips to sights that must be seen and the pair become closer than they were before, but the reason for the trip is that the grandfather has terminal bone cancer and they're driving to Seattle for lawful assisted suicide and the trip and the cause had become a CNN story. As always, Rehder's characters are real life, and philosophical situations well thought!
A touching tale of a road trip from Texas to the Northwest with teenager and his grandfather. There are side trips to sights that must be seen and the pair become closer than they were before, but the reason for the trip is that the grandfather has terminal bone cancer and they're driving to Seattle for lawful assisted suicide and the trip and the cause had become a CNN story. As always, Rehder's characters are real life, and philosophical situations well thought!
March 5, 2021
Format: audiobook
Narrator: Maxwell Glick
I’m not crying, you’re crying.
This book follows a road trip of a teenage lad and his terminally ill grandpa who wants the right to choose a medically assisted suicide, fond memories are made and it brings a spotlight to the debate of this sensitive subject when their journey becomes national news.
This is an emotional but inspirational story, heartbreaking but also incredibly heartwarming.
The narrator was perfect for this story and did an incredible job in his narration.
Narrator: Maxwell Glick
I’m not crying, you’re crying.
This book follows a road trip of a teenage lad and his terminally ill grandpa who wants the right to choose a medically assisted suicide, fond memories are made and it brings a spotlight to the debate of this sensitive subject when their journey becomes national news.
This is an emotional but inspirational story, heartbreaking but also incredibly heartwarming.
The narrator was perfect for this story and did an incredible job in his narration.
December 22, 2022
A difficult subject handled gracefully
In the past few years watching loved ones die from diseases that weren’t curable I have decided that people have a right to die with dignity. This book, graciously and thankfully, addresses that head one with a well written story. Even though it’s intended for readers younger than myself, I found it reassuring. I also agree that there are two opinions on this subject but as someone with more of life in the rear view mirror than the windshield, I’m thankful Ben Rehder wrote this including the humorist and reality portions.
In the past few years watching loved ones die from diseases that weren’t curable I have decided that people have a right to die with dignity. This book, graciously and thankfully, addresses that head one with a well written story. Even though it’s intended for readers younger than myself, I found it reassuring. I also agree that there are two opinions on this subject but as someone with more of life in the rear view mirror than the windshield, I’m thankful Ben Rehder wrote this including the humorist and reality portions.
September 12, 2022
When 14 yr old Chuck gets out of class his last day of school, his grandpa was there to pick him up, with a special request. He has a terminal and particularly painful illness and wants Chuck to drive him from Austin to Seattle. Washington is one of only 2 states that allows physician assisted suicide. Naturally, Charlie's parents know nothing about this. This is the story of that often frantic ride.
June 10, 2020
A great Adventure, tough topic
This story was a great Adventure between Charlie and his Opa. Their travels from Texas to Washington. While a great last ad venture between grandpa and grandson, it touched on some tough subjects. End of life decisions like how you want to spend your last days.
This story was a great Adventure between Charlie and his Opa. Their travels from Texas to Washington. While a great last ad venture between grandpa and grandson, it touched on some tough subjects. End of life decisions like how you want to spend your last days.
December 4, 2020
audible:This was an excellent book.A grandfather takes off with his teen age grandson and they go on an adventure of sorts.They learn about each other,where they start and where they end.Sad,glad tears. Maxwell Glick was an excellent narrator.I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.'
April 14, 2024
free ebook by author i like
this book made me cry all the way through it
a 14 yr old grandson drove his grandpa from tx to or without his parents permission. his grandpa was going to die and wanted to do it on his own terms, they had to go where it was legal. when the pain became too much. the boys parents were against it but the grandson drove him there and he died a few weeks later.
this book made me cry all the way through it
a 14 yr old grandson drove his grandpa from tx to or without his parents permission. his grandpa was going to die and wanted to do it on his own terms, they had to go where it was legal. when the pain became too much. the boys parents were against it but the grandson drove him there and he died a few weeks later.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 27, 2017
Wonderful
I knew from the first page of this book that this one would be special. I wasn't wrong. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a story that is touching, funny, heartwarming and thought-provoking. And it will be appreciated by readers of either gender.
I knew from the first page of this book that this one would be special. I wasn't wrong. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a story that is touching, funny, heartwarming and thought-provoking. And it will be appreciated by readers of either gender.
October 19, 2017
Sweet and Real
Some relationships are so special and I loved being part of Henry's and Chuck's. A predictable ending still didn't prepare me and it hit me in the feels, hard. Great story.
Some relationships are so special and I loved being part of Henry's and Chuck's. A predictable ending still didn't prepare me and it hit me in the feels, hard. Great story.
May 7, 2018
It's real good
As we'd say in Texas - real good. Thanks, Mr. Rehder. I grew up in Texas, out west around Odessa, then Austin for some good years. Your books take me home to larger-than-life Texas.
As we'd say in Texas - real good. Thanks, Mr. Rehder. I grew up in Texas, out west around Odessa, then Austin for some good years. Your books take me home to larger-than-life Texas.
August 28, 2020
Heartwarming
Nice change from many of the books I read. Raises questions and also teaches morality. I give it 4 1/2 stars. Would have liked a conversation with Charlie’s parents at end.
Nice change from many of the books I read. Raises questions and also teaches morality. I give it 4 1/2 stars. Would have liked a conversation with Charlie’s parents at end.
November 4, 2020
I read this book in one day! This is a road trip of a 14 year old boy and his grandfather. Why are they on this trip and where are they going? Why are the police after them? This is a sad, but heart warming story!
July 31, 2021
First Five Star Review
I don’t ever give five stars because 1) I’m a tough critic, and 2) I don’t think most literature is perfect. The Driving Lesson is so full of heart and depth, I was honored to accompany Charlie and Opa on their journey.
I don’t ever give five stars because 1) I’m a tough critic, and 2) I don’t think most literature is perfect. The Driving Lesson is so full of heart and depth, I was honored to accompany Charlie and Opa on their journey.
September 19, 2022
The ultimate trip
A short, very powerful story with more than enough life questions than answers. The clean narrative, descriptive language and amusing moments will live long in your mind and heart.
A short, very powerful story with more than enough life questions than answers. The clean narrative, descriptive language and amusing moments will live long in your mind and heart.
December 12, 2024
Charlie's Opa has a terminal condition. Grandpa has decided on assisted suicide in Seattle. The story is about their bonding on the road trip. But, Charlie's parents aren't in agreement and call out the police to stop them. This story goes viral and the country is now involved.
December 25, 2016
I registered a book at BookCrossing.com!
http://www.BookCrossing.com/journal/14336160
http://www.BookCrossing.com/journal/14336160
February 28, 2018
Great Read
This book was great. At first, the story line seems unbelievable; but soon you are hooked. Then, your heart is involved and the story feels real.
This book was great. At first, the story line seems unbelievable; but soon you are hooked. Then, your heart is involved and the story feels real.
January 13, 2020
Lovely story
A meaningful journey by a teen and his grandfather. Sweet, funny and full of heart. * * * * *
A meaningful journey by a teen and his grandfather. Sweet, funny and full of heart. * * * * *
October 15, 2020
Cute, light reading.
November 7, 2020
This is a good book, a really good book. Short, quick read. But really good.
Spoiler alert: I cried
Spoiler alert: I cried
December 15, 2020
Must Read
Tender. Great life lessons. Poignant. Makes you think. Easy, one-sitting read. Love Rehder's characters and sense of humor, Highly recommended.
Tender. Great life lessons. Poignant. Makes you think. Easy, one-sitting read. Love Rehder's characters and sense of humor, Highly recommended.
April 20, 2021
Excellent
A magical trip. Grandfather (Opa) and Charlie on the.trip of a lifetime. From Abilene to Seattle. A great read, A short story.
A magical trip. Grandfather (Opa) and Charlie on the.trip of a lifetime. From Abilene to Seattle. A great read, A short story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews