SAD DADS BOOK CLUB #10
Sam Hollander – “21 Hit Wonder”
The New Year is upon us and the Sad Dads Book Club is kicking off 2025 with a book that’s equal parts hilarious, inspiring, and deeply relatable: Sam Hollander’s “21-Hit Wonder: Flopping My Way to the Top of the Charts.”
This memoir is a powerful reminder of the importance of resilience, reinvention, and finding your voice—even when it seems like everything is against you. Sam’s journey through the music industry wasn’t a smooth ride; it was full of ups and downs, lessons learned, and hard-won success. His ability to adapt, keep pushing, and ultimately trust his own instincts has led him to work with some of the biggest names in the industry—Ringo Starr, Panic! At the Disco, Macklemore, Weezer, Fitz and the Tantrums, Gym Class Heroes, One Direction, and more. And this year alone, his songs have racked up over 15 billion streams, which speaks to the impact of his work.
This read is personal for me, as I first met Sam back in 1999 when I was mentoring with J Bender, a Columbia Records band, and Sam was running Pop Rox studio. Even then, his humor, hustle, and creative energy stood out. Seeing him take his unique approach and turn it into a career filled with incredible stories and successes has been amazing.
This book connects perfectly with the mission of Sad Dads Book Club—exploring stories of perseverance, creativity, and finding your path, no matter how unexpected it might be. Sam’s story is an inspiration to anyone who’s ever faced setbacks and thought about giving up, showing that success isn’t always linear but always worth fighting for.
SAD DADS BOOK CLUB #9
Mike Ayers – “One Last Song”
For our final Sad Dads Book Club read of 2024, we’ve chosen a special book that perfectly encapsulates the themes of nostalgia, music, and memory that resonate deeply with our group: “One Last Song” by Mike Ayers. We’re thrilled to close out the year with a unique event featuring an exclusive Q&A session with the author himself—a perfect way to celebrate a year of great books and shared conversations.
Our meeting will be held on Saturday, December 21, at Vinyl Street Company in Fairfield, CT, with an online option available for those who can’t join in person.
“One Last Song” is the culmination of over two years of interviews that Mike Ayers conducted with some of the most notable names in music. Ayers asks a deceptively simple yet profound question: “If you could only listen to one more song, what would it be?” The responses from artists like The National’s Matt Berninger, André 3000, Wilco’s Jeff Tweedy, jazz legend Sonny Rollins, Killer Mike, and Phoebe Bridgers among others offer an intimate glimpse into their personal soundtracks.
Mike Ayers brings a wealth of experience as a writer and journalist, having contributed to Rolling Stone, Esquire, Billboard, The Wall Street Journal, and MTV over his 15-year career. His deep passion for music, shaped by years of attending live shows and reporting on the entertainment industry, shines through in every page of “One Last Song.”
Come prepared to share your own “one last song,” and let’s end 2024 on a high note, filled with great music, conversation, and community. See you there!
SAD DADS BOOK CLUB #8
August Thompson – “Anyone’s Ghost”
Our Sad Dads Book Club is thrilled to announce that our 8th pick is “Anyone’s Ghost” by August Thompson, an extraordinary debut novel that resonates deeply with the themes often explored in the music of The National. Much like the band’s most haunting and emotionally charged songs, “Anyone’s Ghost” captures the complexities of love, loss, friendship, and the way memories can linger and shape us long after the moment has passed. The novel follows the story of two young men—Theron David Alden and Jake—whose lives become inextricably linked during an unforgettable teenage summer in rural New Hampshire. It’s a journey that speaks to those pivotal moments of connection and transformation, the same kind of raw, heart-wrenching beauty that The National so often captures in their lyrics. Just as the band’s music evokes the bittersweetness of longing and the painful beauty of coming to terms with life’s inevitable changes, August Thompson’s narrative immerses readers in a love story that is electrically alive, tender, and aching with the weight of what could have been.
SAD DADS BOOK CLUB #7
Nabil Ayers- “My Life in the Sunshine”
We’re thrilled to announce that our upcoming Sad Dads Book Club read is “My Life in the Sunshine” by Nabil Ayers! We’re spreading the news early, and several lucky winners will receive a copy of this deeply moving memoir.
This read will also conclude with a special Q&A with Nabil!
Nabil Ayers, President of Beggars Group US, is a prominent figure in the music industry, known for his impactful campaigns for acclaimed artists like The National, Big Thief, and St. Vincent. His influence extends beyond his executive role; at just 25, he co-founded Sonic Boom Records in Seattle and toured globally as a drummer. Through his own label, The Control Group / Valley of Search, Ayers has released music from a diverse range of artists, including Cate Le Bon, Lykke Li, and his uncle, jazz musician Alan Braufman.
Ayers holds a special connection to The National, having played a crucial role in their campaigns, including their GRAMMY-winning album “Sleep Well Beast.” His memoir offers a poignant exploration of identity, shaped by his relationship with his father, jazz musician Roy Ayers, and his own journey of self-discovery.
In “My Life in the Sunshine,” Ayers delves into themes of family, race, and music, providing a heartfelt reflection on his personal experiences. He is also the host of the podcast Identified, where he discusses family dynamics, and his writing has been featured in The New York Times, The Guardian, and GQ.
Join us in reading this moving and insightful book, and don’t miss the opportunity to win a copy and explore the themes that resonate so deeply with our Sad Dads Book Club.
SAD DADS BOOK CLUB #6
Tiffanie DeBartolo- “Sorrow”
ntroducing our latest Sad Dads Book Club pick: “Sorrow” by Tiffanie DeBartolo!
This poignant novel weaves together themes of love, loss, and the intricate dance between hope and despair, mirroring the emotional landscapes explored by the band The National in their music.
“Sorrow” is a raw and intimate portrayal of its characters’ inner struggles and relationships, much like The National’s hauntingly beautiful songs that often delve into the complexities of human emotion. The band’s frontman, Matt Berninger, sings with a melancholic depth that resonates with the same intensity DeBartolo brings to her storytelling. Both the novel and The National’s discography explore the fragility of life, capturing the pain and beauty of moments that define us.
The novel’s title itself is a nod to one of The National’s most iconic songs, “Sorrow,” which appears on their critically acclaimed album “High Violet.” The song, much like the book, speaks to the enduring presence of sorrow in our lives, its ability to shape us, and the ways we attempt to cope with its weight.
The narrative’s exploration of themes such as the search for meaning, the impact of past traumas, and the delicate balance between vulnerability and resilience are echoed in The National’s lyrics. Their music often feels like a confessional, a safe space where listeners can confront their own sorrows and find solace in shared experiences.
By choosing “Sorrow” for the Sad Dads Book Club, we invite members to dive deep into the shared emotional terrain that DeBartolo and The National navigate so masterfully. Join us as we discuss how literature and music can both articulate and alleviate the pain of sorrow, and how these art forms help us find our way through the darkest times.
SAD DADS BOOK CLUB #5
Paul Auster- “Timbuktu”
We are excited to announce the next Sad Dads Book Club read chosen by the incredible Marla Hansen! For Sad Dads Book Club #5 Marla’s pick is ‘Timbuktu’ by Paul Auster.
Marla had contributed her stunning backing vocals on “Boxer,” and “High Violet,” and is an incredible musician.
As violist of the New York based string quartet Osso, she toured and recorded with many different artists including Sufjan Stevens and My Brightest Diamond, and she can be heard on Osso’s critically acclaimed 2009 record “Run Rabbit Run.” She was violinist in Jens Lekman‘s band for several years, with whom she extensively toured and recorded and has worked with everyone from The New Pornographers to Jay-Z.
Marla shares regarding her choice of ‘Timbuktu’:
“I have a lot of love for this book, it’s one of those stories where when I think of it, I am still filled with such strong feelings of love and empathy for the main character, even though I read it many years ago. I’m sure those feelings are amplified by the fact that the main character is a dog, the loyal, direct and honest Mr. Bones, through whom we see his owner’s experiences in addition to his own. I think the beautiful sadness in the book might resonate with fans of The National. I really hope that you enjoy seeing the world through Mr. Bones’ eyes (and ears and nose!)
Both The National and “Timbuktu” delve into themes of existential angst, loyalty, and the search for meaning, evoking strong emotional responses from their audiences and creating a sense of empathy and introspection. They share a literary quality in their storytelling, whether through song lyrics or prose, to convey deeper meanings and emotions.
Be sure to check out Marla’s incredible new album “Salt” which also features everyone’s favorite horn players Ben Lanz (@lanzprojects )and Kyle Resnick (@kresnick )❤️
Thank you Marla!
SAD DADS BOOK CLUB #4
Peter Schjeldahl- “Hot, Cold, Heavy, Light”
The anticipation mounts as the next Sad Dads Book Club selection emerges, with Kyle Resnick enthusiastically recommending “Hot, Cold, Heavy, Light: 100 Art Writings 1988–2018” by Peter Schjeldahl. This collection spans thirty years of Schjeldahl’s illustrious career as the art critic for The New Yorker, promising a captivating journey through the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary art.
“Hot, Cold, Heavy, Light” stands as a testament to Schjeldahl’s unparalleled insight, empathy, and wit in navigating the complex world of art. With a keen eye and an unfailingly lucid prose style, Schjeldahl delves into the works of both emerging talents and established masters, offering reviews that transcend mere critique to become insightful essays in their own right.
Implicit in Schjeldahl’s writings is a deep understanding of the cultural significance of art, as he explores not only the timeless allure of figures like Rembrandt and Picasso but also the relevance of contemporary artists such as Basquiat, Holzer, and Koons. Through his engaging commentary, Schjeldahl sheds light on the artistic movements and trends that shape our understanding of art today.
Compiled and arranged by critic Jarrett Earnest, the collection offers readers a comprehensive overview of Schjeldahl’s diverse range of voices and perspectives. As Earnest notes in his introduction, delving into Schjeldahl’s writings is akin to immersing oneself in great literature, with each piece offering new insights and ideas that enrich the reader’s understanding of art and its impact on society.
We extend our gratitude to Kyle for his thoughtful recommendation as his discerning taste and enthusiasm for this selection only add to the anticipation and excitement surrounding our upcoming book club discussion.
Thank you, Kyle, for enriching our reading experience with such a captivating choice!
Purchase the book HERE
SAD DADS BOOK CLUB #3 with SPECIAL EVENT Q&A WITH RYAN PINKARD
Ryan Pinkard – “Boxer”
The Sad Dads Book Club is thrilled to welcome author Ryan Pinkard to our literary community as we embark on a journey through his 33 1/3 book, “Boxer.” Pinkard’s insightful exploration of The National’s fourth full-length album promises to enrich our discussions and deepen our understanding of the music that has resonated with so many.
Pinkard’s book delves into the transformative chapter in The National’s story. Through extensive original interviews with those who were in the musical ring and the spectators who witnessed it unfold, he meticulously reconstructs the narrative behind the creation of “Boxer.” This promises to offer our book club members a behind-the-scenes look into the creative process and the challenges faced by the band during the making of this album.
“Boxer” is not just an exploration of music but a profound meditation on the unmagnificent lives of adults. Pinkard’s ability to capture the essence of the album as a personal reflection on adulthood adds an extra layer of depth to our reading experience. It will provide members with an opportunity to engage in discussions about the intersection of music and the human experience, making our exploration more meaningful and resonant.
The book also sheds light on the band’s struggle and obsession with creating “Boxer.” It is not merely a recounting of events but a narrative that unfolds as a love story, a years-long endeavor, and a final, exhaustive effort to keep their fantasy of being a real rock band alive.
Pinkard will join the discussion for a wrap up Q&A session and we anticipate a dynamic exchange of ideas and insights. His expertise in unraveling the intricate layers of “Boxer” aligns perfectly with the spirit of Sad Dads Book Club – a community that seeks intellectual stimulation, emotional resonance, and a shared appreciation for literature that goes beyond the surface.
As we embark on this literary exploration we eagerly anticipate the rich discussions, newfound perspectives, and shared enthusiasm that his presence will undoubtedly bring to our community of readers.
Are you ready Sad Dads?
Purchase the book HERE
Email us for an exclusive 20% off code for digital and soft cover copies
SPECIAL EVENT: “SAD HAPPENS” Q&A WITH BRANDON STOSUY
We are pleased to announce a very special Sad Dads Book Club event, with Brandon Stosuy who just released the phenomenal new book “Sad Happens.”
Join us on the evening of Thursday, December 14 at 9pm EST for an exclusive interview and open forum Q&A regarding “Sad Happens.”
An exquisitely crafted celebration of the intricate tapestry woven by tears, “Sad Happens” is a captivating anthology that explores the profound and transformative nature of sadness. This collective compendium of emotions delves into unexpected and beautiful instances of crying, featuring insights from various perspectives including our own King of the Sad Dads, Matt Berninger.
“Sad Happens” not only acknowledges the inevitability of sorrow but also celebrates the inherent beauty found in joy, love, community, and the kaleidoscope of human emotions. It serves as both an emotional salve and a visual feast, affirming that in life, sadness is but one note in a symphony of feelings.
See you there Sad Dads!
SAD DADS BOOK CLUB #2
Mary Shelley – “Frankenstein”
With the success of kicking things off with Patti Smith’s “Just Kids,” I am eager to share book number 2!
Since it was a very close call last time, book number 2 is…..Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein”!
First Two Pages of Frankenstein came from a bout of writer’s block the band suffered while trying to put the record together. Matt opened up Mary Shelley’s titular novel, and found inspiration from the first few pages that involved the book’s narrator adrift and lost at sea.
Shelley’s “Frankenstein” narrates the tale of Victor Frankenstein, a brilliant scientist who manages to bring a creature to life. Contrary to his idealized vision, the result is not a flawless specimen but an appalling being, shunned by both Victor and humanity at large.
Both Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” and many of The National’s songs share a tendency toward a dark and evocative atmosphere. Shelley’s novel explores gothic themes, and The National’s music often features moody and atmospheric tones that convey a sense of introspection.
Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein,” can easily be found at your local bookstore, library, and wherever you like to find your books.
SAD DADS BOOK CLUB #1
Patti Smith – “Just Kids”
“Where does it all lead? What will become of us?”
“Just Kids” is a memoir by Patti Smith, recounting her relationship with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe and her experiences in New York City’s artistic and bohemian scene during the late 1960s and 1970s. The book offers a vivid portrayal of their deep friendship, struggles as young artists, and the evolution of their careers in the art and music world. It’s a poignant and nostalgic reflection on their creative journey and the cultural backdrop of that era.
Purchase / Find the Book HERE
SAD DADS BOOK CLUB 