Mind you, it is not a worshipful hagiography. These men are often salty, highly politically incorrect, mildly sexist, mildly racist at times, and sometimes didn't lead saintly lives. But that, too, is something we can learn from, and nothing for them to be ashamed of. For they are ultimately human beings, and that's the real beauty of Stein's portrayal.
I sense that this book is destined to become what's known as a "sleeper." Offhand, the title and plot synopsis don't seem to grab you. Hmm, "The Girl Watchers," a bunch of old guys sitting together reminiscing. How boring! Or so it sounds. but pick it up and start reading, and I suspect you won't find yourself forgetting it very soon. The lives these men lived, the often funny and always moving way Stein portrays them, are hard to forget, and a constantly enjoyable read. I expect this to be the sort of book people read and say, "Wow, I liked that more than I thought I would," and tell their friends about it.
Indeed, let me just say: I liked this book a lot more than I thought I would, and now I'm telling you about it.
I heartily recommend The Girl Watchers Club. It's a moving, poignant tale with an apt subtitle: "Lessons from the battlefields of life." Pick this one up. You won't regret it.
(By the way, a web site devoted to the book can be found right here.)
Article comments
1 - Eric Olsen
Thanks Dean, very well done. Sounds like a great book!