Our Father Who Art in an Iron Lung by Douglas Dodd is a moving memoir that chronicles the extraordinary life of Bruce Dodd, a man who lived for twenty-one years paralyzed and dependent on an iron lung after contracting bulbar paralytic polio in 1955. Written by his son, the book is a heartfelt exploration of the human spirit. Douglas Dodd masterfully intertwines personal anecdotes, historical context, and reflections on the impact of his father’s condition on their family. The narrative begins with Bruce’s sudden illness and the life-altering changes it brought to the Dodd household. Despite his physical limitations, Bruce emerges as a figure of strength, humor, and wisdom, influencing his children, friends, neighbors, and even hospital staff. His ability to maintain a positive outlook and foster meaningful relationships while confined to an iron lung is inspiring and humbling.

The memoir explores the challenges faced by the Dodd family, from the emotional toll of caregiving to the societal stigma surrounding disability. Douglas Dodd candidly recounts his own struggles, including moments of guilt, anger, and personal growth, as he navigates the complexities of being the "man of the house" from a young age. The book also highlights the broader historical context of the polio epidemic, offering insights into the fear and uncertainty that gripped families during that era. Douglas does not shy away from recounting difficult moments, such as his father’s near-death experiences or the strain on family dynamics. Yet, the book is about the bonds that hold families together when faced with adversity. Our Father Who Art in an Iron Lung is a beautiful tribute to Bruce Dodd’s remarkable life and his resilience. I highly recommend it to anyone who appreciates heartfelt memoirs that honor family strength, perseverance, and the power of love in the face of overwhelming challenges.

Douglas Dodd’s memoir, Our Father Who Art in an Iron Lung, details his life after his father, Bruce Dodd, contracts bulbar paralytic polio in 1955, resulting in near-total paralysis and permanent reliance on an iron lung. Bruce survives multiple critical episodes in hospitals before returning home, where his four young children take on adult roles to help care for him. Douglas, starting at age ten, learns to maintain and modify electrical systems that allow Bruce to control household devices. Over the following two decades, Bruce’s condition worsens, including a stroke, but he remains actively involved in family life with hired support. Meanwhile, Douglas balances school, work, and caregiving responsibilities. The memoir embodies Douglas’s coming of age, later years, and the family’s movements until Bruce’s death in 1976 after a prolonged era of care. “Our Father, who art in an iron lung, Bruce be his name...”

Our Father Who Art in an Iron Lung by Douglas Dodd is a really heartfelt account of family dedication and daily life shaped by extraordinary circumstances. Dodd shares so many memories of caring for his father, and special moments like transporting him to Little League games. It's great to read about the supportive network around Bruce, including aides, visitors, and friends, as well as Dodd’s own life. I feel like I gained a clear sense of the people who influenced Dodd, from his grandmother’s impact to enduring friendships formed through shared experiences. Dodd's work traces significant life events, including his time at Phillips Academy and Windham College, his summers with the Appalachian Mountain Club, and early adulthood marked by varied jobs and relationships. Overall, this is a memoir that stands out as a genuine tribute to commitment, connection, and the everyday realities of caregiving. Very highly recommended.

Our Father Who Art in an Iron Lung is the true story of Bruce Dodd, who was paralyzed by polio in 1955 and spent most of his life confined inside an iron lung, a large machine that helped him breathe. The memoir explores how Bruce’s family—especially his devoted wife Rosalie and their children—lived through the daily challenges of caring for him. Told mostly from Douglas’s perspective as a young boy who had to take on adult responsibilities, the book highlights the love, struggles, and resilience of a family facing an extraordinary situation. Douglas offers readers a clear and heartfelt look at life with severe disability before modern medical advances, without giving away too much, but showing the remarkable strength and spirit needed to keep hope alive despite hardship.

Douglas Dodd’s writing is honest and warm, drawing readers into the family’s world without being complicated or slow. The narrative flows smoothly through many years, skillfully balancing serious moments with touches of humor, frustration, and hope. The individuals come alive as real people, especially Bruce, whose determination, sharp wit, and lively mind shine through despite his physical limitations. Themes of love, perseverance, and acceptance run strongly throughout the pages. I was moved by how the author balanced the harsh realities with moments of joy and deep family connection. It is a deeply moving tribute to a father’s strength and the impact he had on those who loved him, inspiring readers to recognize courage in unexpected places. Our Father Who Art in an Iron Lung is touching and enlightening, making it a memorable read that stays with you long after the last page.