The Practical Navigator by Stephen Metcalfe

Michael Hodge is a struggling contractor living in Southern California raising his autistic son, Jamie, on his own. When his long-absent wife Anita returns unannounced wanting--Michael isn't sure what--a reconciliation? A new relationship? Her role as their son's mother back? Michael must decide whether to give her a second chance or protect his son from more hurt. Meanwhile, a burgeoning relationship that could be heading towards love is put on hold while Michael reexamines his feelings for this woman who abandoned them years earlier.

This story is based on a construction work by the name of Michael Hodge; a single father trying to guide himself and the people he loves through the threacherous seas of life.  His son Jamie suffers from Aspergers and is on the autisum spectrum.  His wife, Anita Beacham Hodge, the mother of Jaime, is an alcoholic suffering with depression.   

Michael goes throughout his everyday life trying to make the most of it.  Suddenly, out of nowhere, after seven years, his ex-wife comes back into their lives. Now their lives are going through one event after the next.

I think the message of this novel is trying to send is that even if their are crashing waves and stormy seas, soon it will calm.  That life is about ups and downs, the laughter and the tears.  Even though this book is not what I would normally read, I think it gives a better understanding of how life works. I did enjoy reading it and it was written well,.   I believe one could learn from reading The Practical Navigator.  A person can be a navigator, getting from one pace to another through life.

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.  Katherine