Thirty Days with My Father

Brief Summary

Thirty Days with My Father by Christal Presley is a poignant memoir that delves into the fraught and emotional journey of a daughter trying to connect with her father, who is living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following his service in the Vietnam War. The book chronicles a thirty-day period in which the author engages her father in daily phone conversations, aiming to understand the impact of war on his life and their family.

Main Themes and Topics

The book prominently explores themes of family, healing, and understanding. Presley's narrative addresses the long-lasting effects of PTSD, not only on the individuals who suffer from it but also on their loved ones. Another core theme is the complexity of father-daughter relationships, particularly under the shadow of silence and unspoken trauma. Through her journey, Presley emphasizes reconciliation, empathy, and communication as vital components in bridging the gap created by years of emotional distance.

Writing Style and Tone

Christal Presley employs a candid and heartfelt writing style, crafting a narrative that is both intimate and reflective. Her tone is empathetic, often blending the rawness of personal pain with moments of understanding and compassion. The conversational nature of the daily phone calls provides a structure that is engaging and accessible, allowing readers to feel as though they are part of these crucial dialogues between father and daughter.

Awards and Recognition

While Thirty Days with My Father has received attention for its honest portrayal of dealing with a parent's PTSD, it has not garnered major literary awards. However, it has been praised in various circles for its contribution to the discourse on mental health and familial relationships post-war.

Criticism

Some readers might find the repetitive nature of daily conversations somewhat limiting in narrative scope. Additionally, given the focus on personal experience, those seeking a broader historical or clinical perspective on PTSD and the Vietnam War may be left wanting more in-depth analysis.