Father’s Day is coming in just over a week, and instead of giving Dad the same tired present- a tie, a Lowe’s gift card, or a new grill accessory kit- give him something that’s good for him: a book!
The dudes in my life have recently burned through a number of books that they’ve enjoyed, and I think they might be good gift options for other guys. Caveat: I have not read these books myself, so I’m going on the reactions I’ve solicited and observed.
The Martian by Andy Weir
Mark Watney was one of the first people to walk on Mars. Then a dust storm hit, and his crew evacuated the planet, assuming he was dead. Now Mark must survive using his wit, ingenuity, and humor to keep him alive. This book balances scientific information with suspense and is billed as a thriller with plot twists. Who knew that a story about one guy stuck on a planet could generate such excitement?
My guys liked:
- The science. “He’s like McGyver on Mars.”
- The humor
- The format
- It’s a good, original story.
Content warning: there is much foul language. For instance, the “F-bomb” is dropped on page one.
I’d like to read The Martian, but I’m afraid it’s sad. “Does he ever get off the planet?” I asked my son. He just looked at me. “Mom, he’s on Mars!”
I don’t take that as a good sign.
Concussion by Jeanne Marie Laskas
This non-fiction piece tells the fascinating story of Dr. Bennet Omalu, the pathologist who made a significant medical discovery about the dangers of head trauma. His research put him at odds with one of America’s most powerful organizations: the NFL.
Please note: I dislike football for multiple reasons and have always steered my children away from the sport. My son, an avid soccer player who is also not a huge fan of football, enjoyed the book. I’m curious to know how a football fan would react to its content.
My guys liked:
- The factual content
- The main character is likable and his story interesting
The Revenant by Michael Punke
Goodreads hails this novel as “A thrilling tale of betrayal and revenge set against the nineteenth-century American frontier, the astonishing story of real-life trapper and frontiersman Hugh Glass.” It caught my attention because Leo finally won an Oscar for playing the lead role in the movie adaptation. My son received the novel as a birthday gift and enjoyed it.
My guys liked:
- It’s semi-historically accurate
- The epic-like plot
Warning: there is a lot of graphic violence.
Also, all of these books have been adapted into movies. This might encourage the guys in your life to read them, or it might deter them. (”I’ll just watch the movie.”) Proceed with caution.
What other guy friendly books can you add to my list?
Thanks for getting nerdy with me!
Julia, you should read The Martian! Trust me. My dad and brother-in-law loved it too.
I haven’t read the other two, but based on your son’s recommendation, I may get them for my son. Not a Father’s Day gift, but my husband hasn’t read a novel in years and years!
I hope your son likes them, and I promise I will get to The Martian. Thanks for the recommendation. 😉
Good recs, thanks so much! I’m debating between music and books for my Pop this year 🙂