The Rockin' Chair by Steven Manchester

Title: The Rockin' Chair
Author: Steven Manchester (website)
Pages: 272 pages
Source: Author for honest review
Rating: 3 out of 5

The Rockin' Chair tells the story of the McCarthy family. It begins with the flashbacks of matriarch, Alice, who is suffering from Alzheimer's. Once she passes away, the story shifts to the rest of the family and especially to her widower, John. Grandpa John was an easy to like character who was well developed. He had his flaws and his good points just like everyone else. My favorite aspect of his character was his great love for his family.

The Rockin' Chair is the second novel I've read from this author. This one had many similarities to the first one I read (Goodnight Brian) and this one was similar in the sense that family is very important and there are a lot of issues thrown into the narration. From the Alzheimers to war to alcohol addiction, there was a lot there. This can be a bit distracting from the standpoint of having so much going on. 

It's a simple and quick read that pulls on the heartstrings. The story is engaging and heartwarming and honest. There are twists and turns and fights and forgiveness - just like real life. 

I would recommend The Rockin' Chair for readers who enjoy their stories light but with a lot of emotion. It's a great contemporary novel from an author who continues to do a good job writing a book that is thoughtful and heartfelt.