Impressions: Books speaks to dads about kids

Deborah Tompkins Johnson/Columnist
Published: June 7, 2008

I have heard many of you say it in various conversations. And you have said to me personally, "I just don't have time to read."

Well, I thought of you as I selected this week's book, "You Have What It Takes: What Every Father Needs to Know."

Since so many people say they don't have time to read, I purposely set out to find a short book, a quick read, as they say.

I have told you about some short books before that have been 80 to 100 pages or so. But this book is only 64 pages. Do not let its few pages tempt you into thinking it is slight in any way. John Eldredge gives us a comprehensive guide for fathers as evidenced by some of the chapter head-ings: "The Secret to Boys," "The Secret to Girls," "The Voice of a Father," "Healing the Wounds" and "The Power of Love."

John Eldredge wrote this book for fathers. So, it also came to mind to share it with you as we approach Father's Day. Read it quickly yourself, then pass it on as a gift.

"You Have What It Takes" reaches out in an encouraging tone to fathers and gives suggestions to dads, specifically for daughters and for sons.

NOT JUST FOR DADS

So often, books are targeted to one audience, but they reach out to many others. And so it is with "You have What It Takes." Though written for men, for fathers, this woman found very useful information in its pages.

My 7-year-old grandson always wants to win, always wants to be right always wants to be first in any race. I have always kidded him for being so competitive—I thought, to a fault. But, Eldredge explains, boys strive to know if they are good enough, that they are capable enough and that they can succeed.

I will have to learn to compliment and reinforce my grandson's ambition and his competitive spirit.

DADS HOLD THE KEY

It's great that I get the message and will work on being more encouraging. But Eldredge also makes the point that what young boys need most is to have their dads reinforce that desire to achieve. Therefore, I am giving my book to my stepson for Father's Day.

Besides "You Have What It Takes," which I am recommending for a Father's Day gift. You might also consider "Walking With God," released this April. The subti-tle, gives you more of a hint of the book's content: "Talk to Him. Hear from Him. Really." "Walking With God" is now on my reading list. You might also want to look at Eldredge's Web site, RansomedHeart.com. I find it informative, even entertain-ing.

Eldredge is also author of the best selling, "The Way of the Wild Heart: A Map for the Mas-culine Journey," as well as "Captivating: Unveiling the Mystery of a Woman's Soul," co-written with his wife.

We have two options.

Deborah Tompkins Johnson can be reached at .