Missing Dad – Book Review
I am so excited to tell you about this awesome children’s book I just read, and the accompanying workbook. This is Missing Dad by Vincent Garrett, and the story follows Caleb, a young Black boy approaching his teenage years. He’s going to have to face it without his father there to guide him. He finds it challenging to handle things all alone. So, what can he do?
In his last year of middle school, Caleb is struggling with the emotional and physical changes that come with adolescence and feels as though he doesn’t have a father figure to mentor him. This is a common struggle – one that I also faced growing up – but one that is even harder on males, and especially harder for POC males.
But there is hope for Caleb, as we will read in his story. Readers of all ages may relate to Caleb’s path of self-discovery and resiliency because Garrett does a fantastic job of expressing his experience as he overcomes these obstacles.
It is immediately apparent that Missing Dad is more than a tale of maturation. Caleb’s internal battle to adjust to his changing feelings and identity without his father’s presence emphasizes how crucial support networks and mentoring are, especially for young males. Garrett subtly reaffirms that self-confidence and personal development are achievable, even in the face of adversity, through Caleb’s relatable voice and experiences.
Caleb encounters new challenges in every chapter, which forces him to develop the ability to make wise decisions. This message is in perfect harmony with Mentor Leaders Produce Mentor Leaders’ (MLPML) objective. These books are an extension of the MLPML and they are doing some amazing community work, so I highly suggest you check them out and look for ways to support, if you can (including by purchasing these books).
The Missing Dad Workbook is an excellent resource for those who wish to delve deeper into Caleb’s emotional journey. The workbook, which is filled with thought-provoking questions and activities, invites readers to interact personally with the themes of Missing Dad. By asking insightful questions, readers may delve into Caleb’s experiences and consider their own, highlighting the value of perseverance and mentoring. Because of its interactive style, the book is not just a fun read but also a useful resource for personal development.
The dedication to giving back is what distinguishes Missing Dad and its materials. Every sale contributes to MLPML’s scholarship fund, which has an impressive 100% success rate in assisting youth in achieving their aspirations of attending vocational schools, trade schools, or higher education. This gives every transaction a deeper meaning and supports a cause that is closely related to the story’s goal of empowering and uplifting young men.
Missing Dad and accompanying workbook are a must-read pair that provide more than simply an inspirational tale, regardless of whether you’re a parent, teacher, or young reader. They offer useful, uplifting perspectives on critical thinking, resilience, and the quest for self-awareness. Caleb’s tale serves as a potent reminder that young people may overcome even the most difficult obstacles in life if they receive the proper help.
The series is available on Amazon.
It’s 5 stars from me and I highly recommend!
Please also check out this trailer for the upcoming documentary, “Light A Fire.” This compelling story follows the journey of young black men as they navigate life’s challenges and triumphs with the guidance and support of dedicated mentors.