David Hogarth’s Rise and Shine, Little Man is a beautifully written blend of memoir and quiet introspection. It captures the innocence of childhood alongside the deep emotional trials of adulthood, offering a warm, reflective journey through time. Hogarth’s strength lies in his ability to balance gentle humour with emotional depth, presenting a story that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.
The setting of 1960s Blackpool is richly nostalgic, and Hogarth’s storytelling is imbued with affection for his roots and for the little moments that make up a life. What begins as a light-hearted look back becomes something much more profound—a spiritual journey that touches on loss, faith, and the mysterious ways we find our way back to ourselves.
Summary
Rise and Shine, Little Man is a touching and heartfelt memoir by David Hogarth, chronicling his childhood in the seaside town of Blackpool during the 1960s. At its core, the book is a tender recollection of youth, family, and the quiet complexities of growing up. David, the youngest in a family of four, shares a deep emotional bond with his mother—a connection that serves as both a source of comfort and, later in life, a wellspring of profound grief.
Through humorous and poignant anecdotes, the reader follows young David as he wrestles with the mysteries of childhood: school, religion, Santa Claus, and the broader strangeness of adult life. Decades later, after losing his mother to dementia, David is plunged into a period of emotional stagnation. The loss shakes him deeply, leaving him adrift—until a series of unexplained, serendipitous events begin to rekindle his connection to the joys of music, art, and humour.
As the story unfolds, Hogarth gently explores themes of grief, healing, and rediscovery, raising the subtle question of whether the universe—or perhaps a guiding presence—is helping him find his way back to purpose. This is a book about memory, love, and the quiet signs that point us toward healing when we least expect it.
Recommendation
Rise and Shine, Little Man is recommended for readers who appreciate memoirs that are honest, emotional, and quietly transformative. It’s ideal for anyone who has experienced grief, questioned life’s direction, or simply enjoys reflective, nostalgic storytelling. A compelling read for those who believe that love never truly leaves us—and that sometimes, healing begins with remembering.
Book Summary
Title: Rise and Shine, Little Man: Memories of a Seaside Childhood
Author: David Hogarth
Publisher: Hawkwood Books
Format: Paperback
ISBN-13: 978-1739323974
Language: English