I've got to admit, this one made me tear up a little bit. I'm not disabled, but I waited later in life than many to start a family and have three very rambunctious girls 7 and under that are a challenge, even when it's a joy. Much of the time, I question my ability to always be the father they need, because of my age and limitations, and most of the time, they're just happy to spend time with me (as long as we are DOING something). That fear and uncertainty, that somehow, I'm not enough and that my children are somehow missing out on something with me as their dad, sentiment that I think is far more common than most men are willing to admit, much less talk about, is beautifully echoed here. There's a part of your heart that breaks with each apology, that is then relieved with each reassurance that you are enough and for your child, you are a great dad.
I read this to two of my daughters last night, and it made an impact, I think. They asked questions and it gave me an opportunity to talk to them about those with disabilities, and that while that means there are some things they cannot do (and how, in a way, that's true of all of us), that it does not stop one from doing as well, or better, when it comes to other areas of life. It's such a quiet, sweet little book, and the illustrations are simple and soft, yet full of small details (and drawn by the author as well). Nari Hong takes us back to when she was a little girl and introduces us to her father, a father who was present and participating, and whose love for his little girl made the kind of impact and impression that all fathers hope for.
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