WHEN THE COIN IS IN THE AIR

John Young

Nov 2019 · Author's Republic · Narrated by John Young

About this audiobook

Like most boys, Jason Blake wants to please his father and older brother. But this erratic father and hyper-competitive brother challenge beyond the norm. To find his way, Jason tries on different roles: schoolyard bully, football player, actor, student. At 20 Jason escapes his Midwest home and seeks independence and adventure: first to Cape Cod, later to Europe. Each adventure takes Jason farther from his father and brother. Each brings him closer to finding himself. When he returns home, the world as he knew it explodes and Jason risks all to protect his mother from his violent father. The dramatic and unforgettable course of events changes the lives in this family forever. And they promise to change the reader too.

Ratings and reviews

Two huge reasons to read this book: (1) This is an excellent story! We've got great characters -- both characters to love, and those to hate. I'd call this book a mix of drama, comedy, business narrative, and it's got a few love stories, as well as some great life lessons... especially around toxic masculinity. You're rooting for the good guys, and even rooting those bad characters... to change... to see the light... to make that life pivot. Will they? (2) That toxic masculinity part. If you're unclear as to what it is, what it does to a boy, what it does to those around him, and to your relationship with him... this book will tell you. If anyone around you has ever hinted that you might have had toxic masculinity... READ THIS BOOK... especially if you are (or are going to be) the father of a boy. The book is honest, open, and thoughtful about the experiences of young Jason.