Yesternight

About the Book

Yesternight offers an intimate look at the rewards and struggles of fatherhood. The author offers an account of two lives unfolding during the first three years of his first child’s life. What began as a simple journal grew deeper than imagined. Inspired by his son’s milestones and the unexpected benefits of being active and present in his son’s life, the author brings in his experience as father and professional counselor to examine a broader scope. The lack of male figures actively parenting comes into question as does parenting in general. Parenting is an active process, difficult and demanding. It requires a ceaseless supply of energy. All of these requirements are well known, yet many are unprepared for the job. And often, the only models of parenthood we have are of our own upbringing.

Yesternight takes form as a compilation of anecdotes and essays unfolding to mirror a child’s development and a father’s deepening commitment. Yesternight offers a collection of stories ranging in emotion from belly laughs to awe. Whether it’s a child’s first ice cream, first steps, or first words, the experience is both raw and sweet.  

Yesternight also examines family cycles on a personal level. How do they continue? How can they be interrupted so that something higher can be attained? In essays that go deep into the heart of the values and beliefs of the American family, alternate views are shared that may serve as a guide for those questioning their family’s direction.

If you are a veteran, novice, or a soon-to-be first time parent, Yesternight offers something for all. Though the work was written both as a tribute to the magical process of the growing child and a challenge to fathers, there is something for everyone.  

Yesternight presents fatherhood in a new light, one that will inspire parents and soothe some of the doubt of those questioning entrance into fatherhood.  Something comes from the process of an unfolding life. The parent-child relationship is not a one way street. While children seem eternally needy and ungrateful on the surface, there is magic if you are present, and the magic is what you make. Some know in their hearts that fatherhood is not for them; but, for those who are straddling the fence, or remained uninvolved in their children’s life, Yesternight offers an intimately unique perspective. One that may open doors unseen.

About the Author

John Panepinto is married and the father of two sons. He has a private counseling practice in Raleigh, NC and also works as a Counselor in the only leadership magnet elementary school in the nation, where his work includes melding character education and leadership principles. He is the author of several works of fiction and non-fiction. He has authored two self-development programs and is currently working on a third. Yesternight reflects on his hesitancy to become a father, the lessons learned during the critical first three years, and the awe and humor found in being present in a child’s life.