It Takes a Worried Man

I'm a little confused by some of the reviews here. One says that the author fails to make his point: it seems to me that that reviewer wanted the author to have, simply, a different point to make. He doesn't. His point is that illness brings out the best and the worst in all of us, and doesn't really leave any of us looking very much like heroes. The kind of book that these reviewers seem to want is the kind of book that makes me generally despise fiction: blah blah blah, oh, we're all so honorable and brave. We're not. We're all peeing our pants most of the time, and Mr. Halpin says so, and I was immensely relieved to hear it. If Mr. Halpin admits that he was less than respectful in some moments, well, good for him, maybe the next man who isn't perfect will feel better knowing he's not alone. If Mr. Halpin admits that he doesn't know what's going to happen next, well good for him some more: neither do I and neither do you. Mr. Halpin doesn't give us all the details that we want about his wife's experience: frankly, it's not her book, but it's important to note that we do want those details. It's a quick read, someone said: yep. I wanted it to be longer too. It lacks structure: no, it lacks predictable structure, but so does one's mind when dealing with this sort of experience. I hadn't planned on writing a reveiw of this book, but reading the others here has inspired me, so here goes: "It Takes Worried Man" is not a nice, tidy, politically correct story. Thank God for that.

I bought this book yesterday, and found myself very unsociable, all evening, I couldn't put it down. Halpin draws you right in, and you want to know whats going on. I read it on the subway coming into work, and kept brushing away tears. I love this family, I love the lives they live - I love Halpin's ability to see joy in moments with his daughter. You find that these are people you want to be with!

This is an outstanding book in every way. As a reading experience it is everything you hope for as it draws you in and holds your interest. I did not want the book to end. It is hearbreaking, funny, and riveting. I feel bad saying that because it is about one family's life-altering experience, one that no one should have to deal with. But I thank the author for honestly telling us about his experiences. I think that was an act of bravery. This is definitely a book that I will recommend to many, many people. I am sending all good thoughts to the author, Kirsten, and Rowen for blessings of health and happiness. I, too, will look forward to any other writing by Mr. Halpin. I loved this book!

Brendan Halpin writes in a voice that is seamless and conversational. I could not stop reading this book. I did not know much about cancer or cancer treatments, so hearing about one example of what treatment is like from a layperson's point of view was an education. But I think this book is even more about marriage and love, and about hard times and aloneness. I hope he writes many more books--I will read them all. Because of his many references to music and the way he mocks Phish and folk music, people might compare him to Nick Hornby. But I think Halpin is even more like Anne Lamott--so honest about his own ugly side that readers can not help but feel a connection.

A friend recommended this book after reading an excerpt in a magazine. I picked it up and I couldn't stop reading after the first two pages. The author's honesty is astounding; his voice is compelling; his capacity for humor in a distinctly unfunny situation is incredible. This book is a testament to how strong we all are in the face of adversity. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading, and I would make it a must-read book for anyone who needs to find strength during a tough time. I would give this book more stars if I could!