A warts and all biography. It is a shame that this book ever had to be written at all but a testament to the advances of medicine that polio has been eradicated in many countries. I commend the author and his family for not skirting around any issues that their family and father experienced. It is written with kindness and understanding.

This was a fascinating read - Doug's dad sounded like such a wonderful man and I enjoyed the tales of his life in an iron lung. I thought it was well told, with some great snippets into the impact on Doug, his family and the rest of his life, particularly enjoying the stories of his daughter with Down Syndrome. There are some pretty heavy topics throughout but I loved that Doug didn't hold anything back from his story. Well worth a read.

I heard about this book and immediately knew I had to get my hands on it. I wanted to wait and see if the publisher would do an audiobook option, but I just didn’t have the patience to wait, I wanted to read this book now!

What an incredible story! It was almost like the author wrote a beautiful love letter to his family, during all the different stages of his life. I loved how open the author was about his life. The good, bad, ugly, and all the things that make up who we become. I loved that he acknowledged things that normally would be hidden away, such as the idea that he and his siblings almost had a different version of their mom. And although the author had positive to say, he was very aware his sister didn’t share this sentiment. The honesty was incredible.

I actually really enjoyed the format of the book. Since each idea or story was essentially its own chapter, it was easy to follow. This made it easy to keep track of different people mentioned, since they were within the story being told, within that chapter.

The humor in the book had me chuckle multiple times. I imagine there was a lot of underlying fear or anxiety about the “what ifs.” That being said, it sounds like the authors dad had a sense of humor and the ability to genuinely laugh in life. The “I can really walk” button” made me laugh out loud. Or the time he turned on his rocking bed and had a view up a visitor’s skirt as she adjusted herself. It was touching and clear that the authors dad really did choose to fight to survive.

This was definitely an interesting read, and there were moments throughout this I don’t think I will ever forget.

Doug and his family were so brave dealing with these highs and lows at such a young age, but I’m also glad they did have a lot of neighbours and friends that were very supportive.

Thank you so much for sharing your story with the world.

In the 1950's Polio took a terrible toll. Many died, were crippled. Some had to rely on a machine called an Iron Lung to breathe for them as they were unable to move. Many did not survive long, but this book tells of Bruce Dodd who lived on for over twenty years. This moving book, mostly told through the eyes of his only son, relates how, far from being useless, Bruce became a person that would always listen.

At only six years old, Doug became the man of the house. He tells his story warts and all. He admits to his many failings but his love and admiration for his father shines through. This book could have been a bleak story of someone cut down in their prime. Instead it is a tale of bravery, endurance and positivity. Thanks to Netgalley & te publisher for letting me read & review this book. I think it is probably one of the most moving stories I've read.

So the title is a little bit misleading. Yes the book touches on the author's father's life, but it's more about the life of the author and his family. The author holds nothing back - the good, the bad and the darkest parts of their lives. At times it does get a tad confusing as the timeline jumps around but it's a good read nonetheless. The book comes with pictures which I always appreciate. Thanks to Netgalley, the author and publishers for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

A poignant and thought-provoking memoir that explores the author's experiences with polio and the iron lung. Dodd's writing is lyrical and evocative, drawing the reader into his world of resilience and hope. A powerful story of survival and the human spirit.