The Light of Other Days

By: Gary Sweeney

Narrated by: Jeff Reim

"Sweeney writes with conviction and is emphatic in his opinions. He demonstrates facility with psychological terminology which he often utilizes when describing himself and the family dynamic... While children being raised by a grandparent has become more commonplace, there are few who can claim to have been raised by a great-grandparent. Sweeney’s tribute to the man who was his hero and his role model during an often cruel and miserable childhood is a heartfelt one." (The BookLife Prize/Publishers Weekly)

The Light of Other Days is a memoir about growing up in a turbulent household with an anxiety disorder, depression, sensory issues, and introversion while struggling with an absent father and an emotionally distant stepfather.

It is also a story about a wonderful relationship between a boy and his great-grandfather, a man who unwittingly filled a parental void in the midst of his own depression.

Beginning in the blue-collar world of 1970s Philadelphia and ending over two decades later, The Light of Other Days follows the trials of adolescence and an internal monologue that was often louder than the outside world.

©2020, 2021 Gary Sweeney (P)2021 Gary Sweeney

If Brighton Beach Memoirs is five stars…

…this one is worthy of four, for relatable observations of human behavior and depictions of the author’s experiences. Read beyond the initial description of Pop’s unfortunate layoff and you will find warmth and hope opposing incredibly selfish would-be parents. Anyone who identifies as sensitive yet strong, a daydreamer with a smart and curious mind, will relate hard to this kid. I can just imagine Gary’s Philadelphia, it’s neighbors sitting on the front steps even in cold months, and Gary on the couch with his Pop enjoying comfort and safety, with a sleeve of Ritz crackers.

Memories

This was such a a wonderful way to honor your grandfather's life, entwined with your own. I loved this book so much. A lot of it reminded me of my father's memories and how I miss him so. Thank you for sharing your life, good and bad.

Heartfelt beautiful story

How lucky the author was to have had such a wonderful presence in his life. It was such a relatable story for anyone who has been fortunate enough to have a loving grandparent integrated into their daily life. I was touched by the depth of his feelings even 25 years after the death of his beloved “Pop”. Very well done without being sappy.

Honoring a loved and adored Pop

I love memoirs, and this one struck a cord with me as I also had a very close relationship with my grandmother given challenges at home with my nuclear family. I could relate to this story in many ways, and appreciated the journey I experienced when triggers to my own life presented. I liked how the author included so much local history as it related to his family, as I am from the same general area, so enjoyed that part too. I enjoyed the listen: )