Papa’s Pearls is a book recently sent to our home for review. Written by Diane Flynn Keith, known for Carschooling and in alternative school circles. This is not a book written for homeschoolers, but for everyone – truly everyone. Papa, Carol Joseph Flynn, is Diane’s father, her Papa. This is his story.
Papa’s Pearls is part memoir, part book of wisdom. Throughout the seventeen chapters we read of a father’s love and how he shared this with his children. There are sayings and catch-phrases that were taught to his children and grandchildren, pearls of wisdom. These pearls show what Papa had learned and wanted his children to know.
Growing up in the Depression-era, facing what could have been a bleak future, involving crime (common for many in those days), things didn’t look so good for young Carol Flynn. Through some life-changing opportunities and hard work, he turned his life around. He eventually had his own successful plumbing business.
Some of the stories told throughout the book will have you laughing, some crying. Some of the stories are about Papa, others his children and grandchildren remembering what he said and taught them. As a parent, I see opportunities to encourage my children. Little things I could do more of. When my children are a bit older, they may be interested in reading the book for themselves. To read of these pearls of wisdom and the stories behind them.
A few of my favorite pearls are “Life is too short. Relax: take a little time off” the ideas of the short (and budget friendly) family getaways are something we need to implement in our family. “Keep a foxy pocket” – I do this but never had a catchy name for it. At first picking and choosing a few chapters, I thought this family was not a family of faith in God, but in their own work in their lives. After reading the chapter about “Be grateful every day” I changed my mind. Papa had a deep faith, just his own way of sharing it. The truths and wisdom shared in this book are his way.
You can purchase your own autographed copy of Papa’s Pearls for $21.97 (includes $7 s/h). Many more Schoolhouse Review Crew members reviewed Papa’s Pearls. Check out their reviews, too!
