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Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Be Good: Grandpa’s Guidebook to a Life Well Lived by Allison Katie is a nonfiction work built around a series of life rules modeled after the author’s grandfather, Ed Wagner. Structured as short chapters, each rule focuses on a guiding principle such as working hard, enjoying life, staying humble, listening more than speaking, and putting family first. Through personal anecdotes and family memories, Katie shows how these principles shaped her grandfather’s daily actions and relationships. The narrative emphasizes ordinary routines and small decisions, showing how they accumulate into a meaningful way of living. Taken together, the rules form a portrait of a man whose influence extended beyond words and whose example continues to guide his family long after his passing.
Allison Katie writes conversationally, with a steady pace that lets each lesson unfold through story rather than argument. The chapters are concise and focused, making the book easy to read in short sittings while still feeling cohesive. Readers may especially enjoy the clear structure, which invites reflection without overwhelming the narrative with excess commentary. The tone is sincere and grounded, supported by concrete details that bring her grandfather’s habits and personality to life. Those drawn to memoirs centered on family wisdom, legacy, and everyday ethics will find Be Good engaging, as will readers seeking a calm, reflective read. The book’s strength lies in its simplicity and consistency, offering examples of how values are practiced over time and how influence often comes from a steady presence rather than grand gestures.
