Happy Father’s Day

My husband and daughter several years ago. Happy Father’s Day!

Happy Father’s Day to all those wonderful dads out there! We hope your day is filled with joy, relaxation and good literature!

In honor of father’s day, we are listing our top literary fathers.

1. Atticus Finch, To Kill a Mockingbird: Atticus is perhaps one of my favorite literary fathers. The example he sets for his children and his holding true to his principles in the face of adversity makes him the ideal role model. He supports his daughter’s decision to be however she wants to be at a time and place where girls were expected to wear frilly dresses and be “ladies.” And, he fosters a love of reading and a strong moral compass in his children.

Still from the Movie adaptation, The Road. http://www.theroad-movie.com

2. The Man, The Road by McCarthy: Although incredibly depressing and bleak, this book has perhaps one of the most touching examples of father-son relationships. The Man is at times ruthless but everything he does is done to ensure the survival of his son. While the boy’s mother is not able to find the strength to struggle in the harsh environment, the father never abandons his child even when things are at their bleakest. If you ever find yourself at the end of the world, this is the man you’d want to be with you.

3. Jean Valjean, Les Miserables: Jean Valjean is imprisoned for stealing bread to feed his sister’s children. Rather than let his imprisonment change him into a bitter and selfish man, he converts his energy into helping others. Not only is he a wonderful character, he is a loving father. He essentially adopts Cosette and gives everything he has to ensure her happiness.

4. Bob Cratchit, A Christmas Carol: He stays kind and loving despite all he suffers at the hands of Scrooge. He serves as the moral compass for the story reflecting traits of generosity, responsibility, and good-will in the face of adversity. Despite all his family is suffering, he is kind and good-natured. Perhaps not the most realistic portrayal, but he is constantly a good role model to his children.

5. Matthew Cuthbert, Anne of Green Gables: I LOVED Matthew when I was a child. Although stoic, his quiet but loving and reassuring presence was such an integral part of Anne’s life. He was the reason that Anne stayed with the family and he was a constant source of support for her through thick and thin.

Which literary fathers are your favorites? Did we miss anyone?