From the Front Porch: Episode 533 || Shop Dad Recommends

From the Front Porch is a weekly conversational podcast produced by The Bookshelf, an independent bookstore in Thomasville, Georgia. Hosted by Annie Jones, this episode features a special guest appearance by Chris Butterworth's literal father, affectionately known as "Shop Dad." In Episode 533, released on June 12, 2025, Annie and Shop Dad delve into a curated list of book recommendations tailored for dads and father figures, offering a blend of fiction, nonfiction, historical accounts, and personal memoirs.

1. Introduction to the Episode

Annie Jones welcomes listeners and introduces Shop Dad as a long-time participant in The Bookshelf's shelf subscription program. She emphasizes the importance of listener reviews and transitions into the main discussion focused on Shop Dad's favorite reads and recommendations suitable for Father's Day gifts.

2. Evolution of the Shelf Subscription Program

Chris Butterworth explains recent changes to The Bookshelf’s shelf subscription program:

"We've changed that at the Bookshelf this year. Now we have what is called our revolving shelf subscription, where you pick a book, mom picks a book. Nancy, Erin, and you guys rotate."
(03:17)

This modification aims to accommodate both local and long-distance customers, ensuring a diverse selection without overburdening participants.

Shop Dad reflects on his experience:

"I'm able to pick some of my own preferences in reading. So I've kind of enjoyed being off of the monthly assignment list."
(04:29)

This flexibility allows Shop Dad to explore a wider array of genres and topics, enhancing his reading experience.

3. Book Recommendations

a. The Instrumentalists by Harriet Constable

Shop Dad introduces this debut novel inspired by real events in 18th-century Italy, focusing on Anna Maria, a child prodigy in classical music navigating life in an orphanage.

"She ultimately finds out from whom she came and that her ambitions can be as devastating as they can be rewarding."
(08:17)

The book delves into themes of jealousy, mentorship, and the challenges of maintaining one's place in a prestigious orchestra.

b. The Garden Against Time by Olivia Lange

This nonfiction work chronicles Lange's restoration of an English garden, intertwining personal narratives with historical insights into British gardening traditions.

"As I read in this book, the more engaged I became. And when I finished, I was really longing for more."
(13:15)

Shop Dad appreciates the book's exploration of garden maintenance, historical controversies, and the lifecycle of gardens, making it a perfect summertime read.

c. Agony Hill by Sarah Stewart Taylor

A mystery novel set in 1965 Vermont, it follows State Police Officer Franklin Warren investigating the murder of a local farmer while grappling with his own personal grief.

"It's not just maybe your run of the mill whodunnit. Instead, it's also dealing with small town life."
(17:23)

The book is praised for its intricate plot and emotional depth, making it suitable for fans of character-driven mysteries.

d. Bandit Heaven by Tom Clavin

A nonfiction account of late 19th-century bandits and cattle rustlers in the American West, featuring figures like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.

"This would be a very good dad's book. Dad's Day gift."
(21:15)

Shop Dad recommends it for its detailed exploration of outlaw hideouts and the impact of technological advancements like the telegraph on law enforcement.

e. The Lynx Land by Michael Bamberger

A 30th-anniversary edition recounting Bamberger's year-long honeymoon in Scotland, funded by his work as a caddy on the professional golf tour.

"The layouts are different. They're very much coastal type courses."
(31:45)

The book appeals to golf enthusiasts and those interested in travel narratives and historical descriptions of Scottish golf courses.

f. John Lewis by David Greenberg

A biography detailing the life of Congressman John Lewis, highlighting his role in the Civil Rights Movement and his enduring legacy.

"His tagline or the thing that he said was like, get into good trouble."
(35:13)

Shop Dad underscores the book’s significance in understanding contemporary civil rights struggles and Lewis's personal sacrifices.

g. The Barn by Wright Thompson

This nonfiction work explores the infamous Emmett Till murder site in the Mississippi Delta, intertwining local history with personal discovery.

"There was so much deception and lying that kept the perpetrators from being caught."
(38:44)

The book is commended for its thorough investigation and poignant portrayal of racial tensions in the American South.

h. Munich by David Peace

A novel reimagining the 1958 Munich air disaster that claimed the lives of several Manchester United football team members.

"This was a very, very good reading."
(43:24)

Shop Dad draws parallels between the fictional tragedy in the book and the real-life Marshall University plane crash, highlighting the emotional resonance of sports disasters.

i. A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman

Though not detailed extensively in the transcript, Shop Dad briefly mentions this beloved novel known for its heartwarming narrative and relatable protagonist.

"This is going to read this one. I like Fredrik Backman a lot."
(45:16)

j. Making of Manhattan by Russell Shorto

A historical account of how Manhattan was developed, offering readers an in-depth look into the urban transformation of one of the world's most iconic cities.

4. Personal Reflections and Anecdotes

Throughout the episode, Shop Dad shares personal stories that connect him to the books he recommends. For instance, he reminisces about his childhood accordion lessons, highlighting his eclectic taste in music and literature.

"I was a child, basically. But, yeah, the thing in central Florida when I was growing up was to play the accordion."
(09:44)

He also discusses the emotional impact of reading about the Civil Rights Movement and how it parallels his upbringing in the South.

5. Highlighting Shop Dad’s Own Book: Ordinary Time

In a heartfelt moment, Shop Dad introduces his own book, Ordinary Time, which delves into his spiritual journey and family experiences. He expresses gratitude for the support from his family and listeners.

"Lib, and I both shed tears reading some of it... I'm very proud that you were able to get that first book done."
(24:33)

The book has achieved notable success, being ranked in the top 10 of Harper One's new releases, reflecting its positive reception.

6. Enhancing Community Engagement

Annie and Shop Dad encourage listeners to engage with The Bookshelf’s offerings, particularly the revolving shelf subscription program, which features selections from various staff members. They highlight the convenience of purchasing books online and the personalized touch of having multiple curators contribute to the selection.

"Your reads have their own home. Bookshelfthomasville.com forward/collections. Shop dad reads."
(46:37)

7. Conclusion and Call to Action

The episode concludes with final book recommendations and a reminder for listeners to visit The Bookshelf’s website for more information. Annie emphasizes the value of leaving reviews and supporting the podcast through Patreon, fostering a sense of community among book enthusiasts.

Notable Quotes

• Shop Dad on The Instrumentalists:
  "What goes around comes around. Anna Maria ultimately finds out from whom she came."
  (08:17)

• Shop Dad on Agony Hill:
  "Alice always felt slightly uncomfortable at these recitations of the successes of people's offspring."
  (18:09)

• Chris Butterworth on Personal Experience:
  "I have a distinct memory of you reading that book. It doesn't surprise me that you picked it up, but it is hefty."
  (32:39)

• Shop Dad on Munich:
  "This disaster is perhaps the most tragic single blow British sport has ever suffered."
  (43:56)

Final Thoughts

Episode 533 of From the Front Porch offers a rich tapestry of book recommendations intertwined with personal narratives and historical insights. Shop Dad's diverse selections provide something for every reader, particularly those seeking meaningful and thought-provoking reads for Father's Day. The episode underscores the importance of community, shared experiences, and the enduring love of books in fostering connections.

For more information and to explore the books discussed in this episode, visit The Bookshelf’s website at bookshelfthomasville.com. Follow them on Instagram at @bookshelftville for daily updates and join their shelf subscription program for curated reading experiences.