Raising a Riot

by Alfred Gerald Toombs

The book was based on Toombs' real life experience of having to look after his children after having been away from them at war for three years.

252 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2012

Reviews

[Jack Durish · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a sentimental favorite of mine. I read it the first time when I was about 13 and have read it at least 20 times more throughout my life (now 76). Although it may seem saccharine by modern standards, it reflects life in a gentler, less complicated time, the 50's. It is the story of a single father (when single parenting wasn't supposed to exist) coping with earning a living while raising three semi-feral children. There is love, plenty of love though it is unspoken (One didn't speak of it in those times) There is humor, plenty of that too, though not crude like modern fare. How do I really feel about it? Well, once upon a time my wife and I had a personal library of approximately 3,000 titles. When the nest emptied and we downsized, all but a few were donated. However, Raising A Riot as well as it's sequel, Honeymoon for Seven remain on my shelf. His third book, Good as Gold, also resides there. These later two have been read many times as well, and I expect they will be read again before too long, to transport me back to my youth, to those simpler times. I know they won't be palatable for all, maybe not many, but if you can find a copy, count yourself lucky...

[Niki (nikilovestoread) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Raising a Riot by Alfred Toombs was first published in 1949. The story follows Toombs's own experiences raising his three children for a year and half while their mother is away. He is recently returned from three years at war. The ensuing story is a delightful, hilarious account of a young father adjusting to life as father, mother, and housekeeper for his rambunctious children, Janie, Lynn, and Larry, ages 4, 7, and 10. I absolutely loved reading this one and plan to read the other two books Toombs published as well.

[Kathleen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Recently tracked down a copy of this book, an old favorite of mine. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy books from a simpler time.

[Sherry McGregor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book immensely! Perhaps, because my dad was a carpenter and I can relate to the perils of having constant remodeling going on in the house and never knowing what was next. It will keep you entertained! I would recommend it to anyone.

[J. Boo · Rating 3 out of 5]

Placeholder.

Gregory: "Is there any other point to which you would wish to draw my attention?"
Sherlock Holmes: "To the curious incident of the dog in the night-time."
Gregory: "The dog did nothing in the night-time."
Sherlock Holmes: "That was the curious incident."

There's a whole kennel full of non-barking dogs here. Needs a bit of thought before I can properly review it.