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I DON'T KNOW what I can say about this book. Or, I don’t know what I can say about this book that’s not in it.
The book is a collection of twenty-four essays about my first year as a father. In 2002, our daughter Zoë was born, and the next year brought everything: ugly gifts, sleeplessness, dining adventures, wonder, worry. I kept a notebook that year.
We moved from California to Chicago and I started writing up my notes. I wrote one draft, which didn’t quite work, then another. It took time, and help from friends, to shape my observations into essays I hoped would resonate beyond me. From my experiences, to the experiences that maybe all parents share. This is the first book I’ve done that is entirely written (there are sketches I did for the chapter headings).
I loved writing this book. Holing up in cafés, in snow or nice weather, playing with words. Now I’m sort of amazed to be holding it in my hands, this bound thing, that represents a time in my life that was probably more messy. Again, not much more to say. It’s in the book.
REVIEWS
Publisher’s Weekly 7.17.06
"With a delicious sense of humor and remarkably graceful phrasing, Cooper’s journal is a gift to all new parents—especially the guys."
Chicago Tribune 10.8.06
"…hilarious and beautiful… a new father finally understands what it’s all about."
New York Times 10.8.06
"… a bravely honest memoir of parenthood."
Hardcover published by:
Pantheon 2006
ISBN 0375424555 $19.95
Paperback published by:
Anchor Books
ISBN 978-0-307-38718-9 $11.95
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