These are just a few of the words used to describe the book:
Humor, laughter, unique, wild, and heartbreaking page turner.
What an amazing true story. A mother who would rather be a hippie than a parent to 5 children.
This book is incredibly engaging on many different levels. It’s heartbreaking to witness what the author endures growing up with a conventional mother-turned-hippie who decides she no longer wants to be a mother to him and his four siblings. The neglect is abusive and shocking and all the more amazing insofar is that it really happened. The story is non-fiction but almost doesn’t feel like it because it’s hard to believe many of the events actually occurred. That’s part of what makes it a great read. The book is also literally laugh-out-loud funny the way the more straight-laced son (and author) observes the absurd sequence of events and the outlandish people his mother drags into the family’s lives. Lastly, the book does an incredible job portraying the late 60’s-1970’s culture that makes you relive these tumultuous times and remind you where you were when these things were happening. This is a must-read.
I Loved this Book!
I was able to read this book before it was formally published and loved every page. The storyline, the craziness, the experiences Tom shares are really quite incredible. The writing is good too! I’m surprised this hasn’t been picked up by a major publishing house but perhaps it will once people read it and share it with their friends, as I’m sure will be happening. When are the rest of the books coming out?
Laughter through tears…
A touching memoir that makes you laugh and cry. As Dolly Parton once said “laughter through tears is my favorite emotion”. Cleverly written from the perspective of repetitive counseling sessions. I couldn’t put it down and look forward to book 2!
An amazing story; a combination of affection, sorrow, and hardship all with a humorous touch.
I got to know the author, Tom Bross, many years ago. I became aware of his unbelievable upbringing and stories that at the time I thought were a bit shocking and mostly funny. But to sit down and read his memoir chapter by chapter, page by page, and word by word put a whole new perspective on the life and upbringing of this young boy in a world I could never relate to. An amazing story of a unique 60s bonded family with rather shallow roots. Book one “Tightrope” is an easy read as the author’s keen sense of humor comes to life on every page. Loved It and recommend it! Can’t wait to read Book 2.
If you think YOUR life is bad…
I bought this book for several reasons. The first was we know Donna. The second was we were hippies who have a son named Jupiter and the third was we’re from Davis and have some mutual friends but, that doesn’t diminish the fact that this book brought me to tears of laughter where I couldn’t even breathe it was so funny. So, what’s so funny about tragedy? Some people can do it!! Tom is a master at making his tragic childhood hilarious to read about. I have to admit it hit home a few times which made it funnier to me. I especially enjoyed seeing life through the eyes of a boy, since I’m a girl. Boys are definitely different! Thanks Tom! Great reading great laughs.
A Fascinating Story…but it’s True
I couldn’t put this book down! I’m glad I bought both books at the same time so I can continue the story. I was immediately drawn in by Tom’s honesty and humor, all the while discussing the roller coaster that was his childhood. Tom’s sister Chris was my friend, so I knew his family, and spent time at their home when they lived on L Street in Davis. It was good to see the pictures, and hear the stories from his perspective. They were an unconventional family during a crazy time. Write on Tom, you have a gift! Thank you for sharing. <3