Brennan’s book is replete with stories depicting the many lessons he learned both as a child growing up in Ireland, and coming of age in America. He describes his journey as one that began in the land of his ancestors’ centuries before his own birth. Mal, Brennan’s father was a central and influencing figure in his life. He instills in his son what it means to live a truly meaningful life, such that one’s time here on earth is neither wasted nor full of regrets at life’s end.