I bought this book for myself after Tim died. I was glued to the TV for that week, mourning with the thousands that mourned. I felt that if I purchased the book, I would have a connection with Tim. I didn't bargain for the sadness it made me feel over the loss of my own father some 33 years ago when I was only 22 (like Luke). After reading the book, I then purchased 5 more --- one for each of my children and one for each of my siblings. I am working on a 'letter to my children' about their grandfather, whom they never knew. I had erroneously thought that since I was adopted, my children wouldn't have any real interest in who my father was b/c there was no blood relation. Having read Wisdom of Our Fathers I now know that blood relation is really such a small part of the overall person I became because of my father. This will be a special Christmas when I give my children the book and the 4 page, single spaced 'letter' that I wrote to my father. Thank you Tim ---

This was another wonderful, tearful book from Tim Russert. How much we will miss him... I just wish he had written a book about his mother.

Tim Russert was a very humble, everyday man who serves as a role model for young men in his professional and personal life. Great book.

this is another book by late tim russert- he is truely gifted- sad for america that some one so passionate is gone.

The book is 297 pages & is divided into 21 chapters. The most crucial ones for me were "Honor, Being There, Forgiveness, Missing Dads, The Protector, Discipline, & 75 Reasons."

What was so refreshing about this book was the theme of basic normalcy & decency that most people seem to have. This book should appeal to most people, but it is not only or truly a book about a "father-son relationship." It came across more as a memoir of intimate vignettes, some of which are negative. One of a son whose father missed out being a a dad because of his drug addiction which eventually killed him.

Two of the more positive stories were when a father comforted his son after he told his dad that he was gay, & Kerry a girl who grew up with a stutter, whose dad held her hand & told her "it's ok". There are many life lessons in these stories that are very applicable to people regardless of their own individual backgrounds, beliefs, & experiences. All in all a very inspirational & intimate read.

I enjoyed lstening to this book very much, it gives a great lesson and tells us how important our fore fathers were and still are in our lives today.

Wonderful Touching Stories, brings back so many memories. All sons and daughters should read!!!!

What a wonderful, heart-warming and inspiring book. The letters were funny, inspirational, touching and sometimes brought me to tears - but in a good way.

This is a very well written, easy to read book that I enjoyed very much. I highly recommend it and also Big Russ and Me.

Arrived, promptly, in great condition. Is a wonderful book! It made me laugh, cry, contemplate about "Fathers"! I couldn't put it down...

These warm and very humane stories telling of the interaction between father and son or daughter are thought provoking. How could Mr. Russert know when he wrote this book that the response would be so overwhelming? He couldn't, but he had his thumb on the pulse of so many of us who related to his first book and the flood gates opened. A terrific read.

I loved this book. It is full of lessons, smiles, tears, and warm fuzzies. Share this book with someone you love.

I am almost finished reading this book and I have cried several times. It is funny how we take so many things for granted and how once our love ones are long gone to better lives we will remember all those little moments. This book reminds me that it is now that we have the chance of spending time with our children. It is now that we can tell our parents that we love them. If we wait until tomorrow we may not have the chance to express what we truly need to express to those that we love.

July 16, 2008

It came to mind this evening that I would like to tell you a story about Grandma Rose and Grandpa Sam.
In the story please see how much they loved me and their family and how much I loved them.

Grandma Rose

Grandma Rose was born in Russia in 1908. She was one year old when her parents Manya (Mary) and father Joseph brought her to the United States so she and her brothers and sisters could get a good education.

She married Grandpa Sam in 1931. December 25, 1931 on Christmas day. They loved each other very much.
I was born on February 24, 1933. Oh, how I loved my mother and how much she loved me. When I was young I felt she could make everything OK.

One day in New York City, where we lived, the apartment house across the street caught fire and burned to the ground. Fire trucks, with sirens, ladders and hoses sped down the street. It was too late.

I was three years old and so scared, I cried and cried. Grandma Rose put me in her lap and rocked me for at least an hour humming songs some of which you know. When I finally calmed She took me to the kitchen and baked batches of chocolate chip cookies. Then she gave them to me with a glass of milk. Whenever I get scared now I think about this and I calm down--after seventy two years. That is how strong love can be.

Grandpa Sam

Grandpa Sam was also born in Europe in Romania on November 24, 1904. He came to the United States for the same reason. His parents Rebecca and Israel wanted their children to have a special education.

I was born when Grandpa was thirty years old. He never had to tell me he loved me, I just knew it, He kissed me, took me on many adventures and always watched out for my safety.

Grandpa was very poor in those days. It was the Great Depression.
He insisted that the family go to the mountains for the Summer, mainly because of the diseases that killed children in those hot Summer days. (Polio) in the City.

He took the train to visit us every two or three weeks. Oh how I missed him. In those days the hundred mile train ride took four hours. He was so tired. I would go to the Station with a bottle of water and then holding hands we would walk to our little cabin. I cried after the weekend was over and he left to go back to work. Often when I feel lonely I think about Grandpa Sam and how much he did for us,

Being close to your family and loving them (even when you are angry) is the most important thing in the world. Please try and remember this

A Terdiman Westchester County

Poignant; very moving stories written by sons and daughters about the influence their fathers had on them.

I didn't read this book until after the death of Tim Russert. Like the one about his father, this book is just brilliant. It is so honestly portrayed by those who wrote about their fathers. I was very moved and will read the entire book again and again through the years.

amazing book. I recommend it to every one. I should buy his first book for Tim Russert and his father. Great buy.

I wish my father were still alive so that he could read this tribute to fathers. Tim Russert covered well the attributes that we all love and admire in these men. I'm giving this one to my son, who also exemplifies what a good parent should be.

I lost my father two years ago. When I picked up this book, I couldn't put it down. It is very moving and very healing. You laugh, you cry, you relate it to yourself. There is one piece where a girl found a note from her father (after he had passed) in the garage that reminds her to wear saftey glasses when she does things around the house. I almost can hear my dad saying that to me and I remember it now, every time I go into the garage. I gave this to my cousin as a gift when he had his first born and to several friends as gifts. Tim Russert's son Luke and his father, Big Russ, are very fortunate to have such heartfelt book left in their honor to pay tribute to thier relationships. To me, this is book, in a very special way, is more meaningful than Mr. Russert's unprecedented media legacy in the newsroom...it is that special.

As a father of 4 and grandfather of 10, I had to pause more times than I can count while reading Tim's wonderful book. Like other sentimental Irishmen, I had to take to reading those heartwarming letters from sons and daughters in solitude. It was my way of truly appreciating each of them. Tim's recurring theme song about a father's most precious gift to his child, "Time! Time! Time!", leads me to believe that my wife and I got at least one parenting thing "right." We cannot recall ever having missed a single event/activity/game in the lives of our 4 terrific kids. It was of primary importance to the whole family. Our 3 daughters and son are now reading Tim's book. We hope they agree. . . . and will do the same for their children. It's all that really matters. Thanks, Tim, for leaving us with this special reminder. God bless.

Great stories from so many grateful children. You can fly through this book in just a few hours.

this is a great book. the memoirs are something worth share and a great read every page.

Nice short recalls from different people about events or defining moments in their lives due to something a parent said or did to affect their lives.

Wisdom of Our Fathers: Lessons and Letters from Daughters and Sons

Reading these words reminded me that no matter what kind of father you have there is always something to be learned. My father passed away last October, and I could have added many stories like those here. It's a great bedside book. Read it over a week or two and savor each story.

Tim does a magnificent job in reading this, his tribute to fathers....it is one thing to read the book, but to hear it in his own voice, now that he has passed, is indeed a real treat. Get it!!!

I saw my own father in many of the stories that were told. The book brought back a flooding of memories. So much love was in the book. I loved it.

It's hard to believe that this legendary voice will no longer be heard. The wisdom in his words, the poignant way he delivered his message, and sincerity in his letters. Wisdom of Our Fathers: Lessons and Letters from Daughters and Sons captures all these genuine qualities and more. This is a collection of letters showing and telling us of sons and daughters sharing special moments with their dad. As you read through them you'll discover how the bond between children and their parents are everlasting and you'll find yourself reflecting on your own experiences with your kids and parents.

Everyone should read this book. I had to have kleenex's by my side all the way through the book. How touching. Excellent book, thank you Tim, we miss you.
jahs

The coasts have had too much influence on America for the last 50 years, beginning with Rock & Roll, I suppose, and the cult of youth. There is much to be said for the heartland beginning with the unglamorous mid-west and the great rust-belt cities of Buffalo, Cleveland, Detroit, and the crown jewel, Chicago. Russert was all about being from Buffalo, a town joked about by those seeking sophistication and importance. I am a late-comer to the Russert admiration society, but I am now a true-believer. I knew him not, but I did spend some time watching his shows this election season and came to admire him enormously. This book is not all that great, but that isn't very important. It is a book in which the transitory words of Television are turned into immortality. This and his other books are our single hold on him. He deserved to be admired and was. That in itself is rare.

A Walk Through Life This is a fantastic book and a great insight into the late Tim Russert.

Although I no longer will hear Mr. Russert every Sunday morning the wisdom of his words and the example of how he lead his life will always be with me.

This book reflects the insight we all will have experiencing life and our aging parents. It will open our eyes as to the generation they are and the generation we have become.

I hope in some small way I can lead by Tim's example. He sure left one heck of a legacy in history and in his son Luke!

Pattie

Another great book by Tim Russert. I'll miss you Mr. Russert.

Joel Simkhai

Tim Russert unexpected death shocked us all. My heart sunk when I heard of this tragedy. The Today show anchors were all very emotional when speaking of their colleague. This speaks volumes for the love of the people who knew him.

He was loved and respected by many friends and fans. He was one of the few political reporters that gave us both sides of the story. When he talked we listened and knew it was a strong and valid opinion to hear.

He leaves us with this wonderful book about Father stories of many people. These stories are touching and heartfelt which he shared with the world.

A must own book!Grab your Kleenex~

Merna

I've been reading these lessons and letters that Tim so loving compiled for two years now, but never took a minute to thank him. Each of us will find pieces of our fathers on every page. Thank you Tim for this tribute and for every enlightening asnd entertaining Sunday morning.

I want my TV back!!!

Can someone please tell me what the hell is the big deal about this man? I'm sorry he's dead. I'm sorry there is a war going on. I'm sorry that our boys are dying every single day while they fight for this country. I'm sorry more than 5 million Americans are living below the poverty level. I'm sorry hard-working Americans are getting kicked in the face every time they go to the pump. But what really gets me steamed is when I put my TV on and every single channel is devoted to spinning garbage to make Americans forget about what we really need to know about!

It's really no coincidence that ABC, NBC, MSN, CNN, CBS, Fox News & Headline News are all tripping over each other, falling backwards trying to kiss this man's bee-hind. Enough already! Come on, this is so obnoxious and arrogant. On MSNBC they literally devoted the entire weekend to this BS. And The Pope didn't die. The President didn't die. The Queen didn't die. What the hell is the big GD deal?

You know, I work hard for my money. I pay 189 bucks a month for cable. For what? So I can enjoy the privilege of watching this glorified pity party? Sometimes I really think that justice only serves those that serve themselves.

I sincerely mean it when I say that it's sad that this man died. It's sad when anyone dies. Let's come back down to earth though. Because heaven knows that those dopes at NBC sure as sin don't want anyone to put this into perspective. (FYI, maybe because every single time this man's face is shown on a competing network NBC is paid for the rights to broadcast the newsclip.) Frankly, it's a very sad state of affairs when an American Broadcast News Network simply decides to recklessly suspend their newscasts for an otherwise nonsensical story (I sure hope the FCC is taking note.)

As I stated, can someone please put this into prospective? A middle aged, overweight man passed away. Sad? Sure. A federal case? Hardly.

Oh, you say I have no right to say this? Well, I say you're wrong. I say I have every single right. I say there isn't a better time or a better place.

This fine book makes an excellent gift for fathers. It's filled not so much with advice about fatherhood as love. Most of all, this book is a testament to the power of the love between a father and his child.

I highly recommend it.

--Guy P. Harrison, author of 50 Reasons People Give for Believing in a God

After I bought this book for myself, I went to Amazon and bought 9 copies. I gave each of my children one, a gift of one to a recent high school graduate, and one to a dear friend.
This is one of the most touching books that I have ever read, and I recommend it to everyone.
I wasn't fortunate enough to have a father that I could write about so lovingly, but it warmed my heart to read about so many people who had this blessing.

Author Tim Russert (of NBC's Meet the Press) struck a chord with his previous book about his dad, titled Big Russ & Me. When he received thousands of letters from readers about experiences with their own dads, he realized he had truly touched many. Wisdom of our Fathers is a wonderful compilation of those letters about readers' dads and how they shaped and influenced their families. Some entries are brief, some lengthy. Many are humorous, all are poignant in some way. From 19th century dads to 21st century dads--country and city, poor and wealthy, all are included. Russert ties them all together with more information about his dad, Big Russ, as well as Russert's son, Luke, and Russert's role in fathering him. I found this to be a delightful read, one to linger over, enjoy and ponder. Author Russert hit the bullseye with his universal theme of generational influence. Let's hope for more offerings from Tim Russert.

Book is all rainbows. The author seems to have lived an almost idelic life - - only good family --- good friends --- good schools --- good everything. It's kind of like a latter day Father Knows Best. I respect Tim Russert as a commontator, interviewer and analyist. He should have activated more of those skills when penning this book. Sorry Tim!

First of all, reviewers should not grade this book with stars, they should review it, based on how many boxes of tissues, they used, while reading it. Using my recommended rating system, I rate this book "FIVE BOXES OF TISSUES"! My Dad proved to me, that you can be a Father, and a best friend, and because of him, I always wanted to be a Father. By the time my Dad was 60 years old, he had complete Kidney failure, and was on dialysis 4 hours a day, 3 days a week, and he never missed a day of work. My Dad then had heart problems, and they had to remove his aortic valve, and since he had no kidneys, they couldn't use a pig's valve, because of fear of infection. I signed a release form for him, authorizing him, to be one of the first people, to use the "Saint Jude's" valve. He went "code blue" during the surgery, and was in intensive care. One of the nurse's told me, that my Dad said he couldn't give up, because he couldn't let his son's down. He made it through that, and in a few months went back to work. Then he started having trouble with his legs. And now, he was a 64 year old man, with no kidney's, and an artificial valve, and then, he had to have separate surgeries, that included a bypass in the leg that didn't work, amputated his toes, that didn't work, then amputated his leg up to his knee. He learned how to walk with a prosthetic leg, and he eventually made it back to work. And then, the other leg started to go, and he was back in intensive care. At the same time, my son Justin was being born in another hospital. No one from my side of the family, was there, because they were at another hospital with my Dad. That night, was the absolute, definition, of bittersweet for me. I couldn't wait to show my Dad, the greatest Dad in the world, his new grandson, but due to my Dad's condition, and worries of infection I couldn't bring my son in to see him. As my Dad continued, his irretrievable descent to death, I had to try something, to make sure my son, made it into my Dad's hands. Though it was a nice sunny southern California day, I came to the hospital in a long raincoat, and hid my 4-month-old son Justin, under my coat, and walked quickly into the hospital, and into my Father's room. I took my infant son, out from under my coat, and put him in my Dad's arms. My Father was so weak; he could only hold Justin, for a matter of seconds. As he handed my son back to me, that was the only time, in my entire life, that I saw my Dad cry! With tears, streaming down his face, he said: "What kind of Grandfather am I, that I can't even hold my own Grandson?" I said: "Dad, you're the greatest Father and Grandfather in the world, and hugged and kissed him!" A few days later, at the age of 64, the greatest Father and Grandfather, finally gave up his fight.

Son - Rick Goldstein - President Software Sales
Father - William Goldstein - Dress Contractor - (1916-1980)
Grandson - Justin Goldstein (1980)

If you're wondering why an open letter like this, would be presented in this review, it's because, that's what Tim Russert's book is. It's a collection of letters, sent to him, by sons and daughters, describing special moments with their Father's. The letters are not, from famous people, but from people like you and me. I didn't know people were sending letters to Tim, or I would have. If I have touched any of you, who have read this review, I recommend you do what I did. You'll feel better, about yourself, and feel proud, that you shared your wonderful Father with the world. Your letter may not be in Tim Russert's book, but I would love to read them, and I'm sure many other people would too. Feel free to contact me, however you can, through Amazon's features. And if my letter touched you, then so will Mr. Russert's book.

This author would have sold a book to me if he had shown courage and dignity, as well as friendship, in the Don Imus incident. Mr. Imus put this man on the best seller list often and he had him on his show frequently. But Mr. Russert did not come through for Don Imus and unfortunately, I will not spend another penny on Russert's books nor will I ever watch Meet the Press again!

I am going to wait to hear Don Imus' review on this book when he comes back on the air or radio somewhere else in the future. Until I hear that Mr. Imus endorses it, I will not buy Wisdom of our Fathers. If I find out that it has been highly recommended by Imus, then I will buy a copy for myself and also some as gifts. I trust what Don Imus says.

I hope in Mr. Russert's "wisdom", he will learn the meaning of loyalty and also backbone. Those qualities seem to be greatly lacking---but again, once Imus comes back to let me know this is a good book, then I'll purchase it. I'm just waiting to hear from the I-Man!

Upon reading Tom Brokaw's books, I was inspired to signal even while getting into the turn lane with no one behind me. But that was nowhere near the level of inspiration this book has given me to live a better life.

Therefore, effective immediately I will heed Li'l Russ's example and stop honking my car horn. If there is a safety hazard or I become impatient, I'll just yell out the window. Everything changed on 9/11.

Tim Russert, you are the biggest weasel on the planet earth !!! Don Imus has made you millions of dollars promoting your lame book which I bought. and what do you do to repay him you run a show against him were both sides are not represented. Good journalism is to have people for and against Don on. Big mistake because the same people who listined to Don's show are the same people who watch your show and buy your books. Where were you all week when Don needed you, not one show did you
show up on. Your father obviously did not teach you any thing about
loyalty. And Dons son even looked up to you. what are you ever going to
say to him. The bible says let thee with out sin cast the first stone.
Some people in life say all you need to know in life you learned in
kindergaten well I learned in kindergarten "STICKS AND STONES MAY
BREAK MY BONES BUT NAMES WILL NEVER HURT ME. If al sharpton
and jesse jackson were real rev's they would believe in forgiveness thats
what Jesus preaches. You obviously have alot to learn still fron your dad.
and a lot to learn if you ever whant to get to heaven. Well I am done with you your show and your books. You decieved me and I would like the money back I spent on your book. You did not even put down the fact that nbc and cbs stole money from kids with cancer by fireing him durring the telathon.I guess its true you find out your true friend when times are bad. Judas gave up Jesus for 30 coins durring what turned out to be Holy week you did the same to Don.


Jim

ex fan of yours

Mr. Russert, you've repeatedly appeared on the Imus show, droning on endlessly in promotion of your books, and making yourself a fortune in the process. You knew the deal with Imus of course, but since he steadfastly supported you, advancing your agenda and elevating your career, you apparently didn't mind.

So where is Mr. Russert now pray tell, with Imus on the ropes??? Has he stepped up to defend the man?? Hardly. I'm tempted to call Little Russ a spineless weasel, but that's a compliment only Imus can rightly bestow.

I'll just think it. And tune out.

No long sermonizing. Just simple stories to tug at a father's heart. Like "The Stadium".

"As a twelve-year old boy in 1942, I was excited about the promise of a professional baseball game on a hot summer night in Old City, Pennsylvania. My father, a hard worker with a heavy six-day-a-week schedule had rushed through the day so that he could take me to the game.

"As we approached the stadium, the wide doors near the right-field bleaches opened to accommodate the moving of a giant road scraper. Dozens of fans angled toward the opening, some commenting loudly about a free baseball game. Thinking this was our lucky night, I leaned toward the open doors, but my father's firm grip determined otherwise as we continued toward the ticket line.

"The action on the field and the winner of the game are long forgotten, but not the silent message of honesty from a loving and disciplined father."