I have always been a fan of Mr. Zaslow's writings. I will admit however, this book typically isn't what I would have picked from the bookstore shelf or the library. As a man, we often suppress our emotions. In acquiring and reading this title though, I have no shame in admitting that it touched at heart strings. What I found in the writing was not a book about weddings, but instead, an opportunity to reflect on the husband and father that I need to be.

When I read of Mr. Zaslow's passing I found myself reading several of the obituaries in various local and national newspapers. What touched me the most was the obituary that recounted what an effort he made to ensure he said "I love you" to those he cared about most. When I read this statement, I reflected on how often I traveled the road in the same place that Mr. Zaslow's automobile accident occurred. Until now, how rarely I had given any thought to the anguish or frustrations I might have had with my wife, son, or daughter prior to traveling on this road without even an "I love you" before I left.

As I find myself in my early thirties wondering the role that I play in my daughters future, and the husband I hope my daughter to have, this book will take a meaning to me that it won't to all readers. I found myself looking at the small things that I am worrying about today. As I raise my daughter (6) into a young lady, I hope that someday I am able to see her transition into in the Magic Room. That in that moment I witness the transition from child into woman, that all of the arguments, frustrations, and words are in the past, knowing that my own daughter is ready to begin her life with the right husband.

This isn't a book about a bridal shop. Much as Zaslow would write of Pausch's story, it wasn't about Randy, but about how his own children could live life to the fullest. The real topic is the Magic Room and the power of the transition that occurs in the life of a woman, her mother, father, children, and grand parents. The closing passage in the acknowledgements was truly what summarized the book for me.

Reading this book has allowed me my own opportunity for transition as I look at the father and husband I need to be. The story that Mr. Zaslow shares will be carried forward, this is a book I plan to share with many fathers of girls and hope that they realize the great lessons within. I would encourage anyone to consider this book as a gift to a father of a daughter.

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