The Thing About Dad

The Thing About Dad by Pete Fanning is a poignant exploration of family dynamics and grief, published by Immortal Works LLC on January 4, 2022. This 224-page novel follows thirteen-year-old Jack Lansford as he navigates the challenges of moving from upstate New York to Virginia after his father takes a new job. Jack’s initial resentment about the move transforms into a deeper understanding of his father when he discovers a box of letters that reveal untold stories about his late mother, who died in a car accident when Jack was just three years old.

As Jack settles into his new life, he grapples with his feelings about his mother and the impact of her absence on his relationship with his dad. He finds solace in music, playing drums in a basement band with his father and neighbors, while also forming a connection with Miranda, the girl next door. Their collaboration on a song inspired by Jack’s father’s poem about his mother sets the stage for a pivotal moment in Jack’s journey, as he prepares to confront his father about their shared loss. This edition offers readers a thoughtful narrative that delves into themes of death, grief, and the complexities of familial love.