This was a book I randomly selected at Goodwill, drawn to the play on the title having nothing to do with the cover. From the first page, I never put this book down. Once I hit the last page, I started it again. There are a handful of books that I have ever had really speak to me, and this is one of them. For anyone who has ever felt lost in life, confused about the path you’re on, regret chances you didn’t take... this one is for you. Regardless of fiction or not, the author draws you in, methodically alters your thoughts and proves that anyone can have a do-over if they want it bad enough. ( )

Dr Joe Mix is in a job he hates and in a love less marriage. He is a dentist, but he never wanted to be a dentist, he just wanted to be a cowboy like his father. He has a beautiful wife, but she loves the luxury life style his profession affords, but not him. So one day he decides to walk on on his present life, and make a fresh start, leaving everything to his wife.

We follow Joe Mix as he comes to this momentous decision, and has he subsequently tries to find his way, and in the process, himself. He leaves his former life with just a few treasured possessions including his fishing gear, and his old beat up truck. He acquires little on the way other than a delightful puppy dog, but he soon begins to understand what is really important and what makes a man truly rich.

Whatever one might think of Joe's decision to up and leave, one is soon won over to this charming man. Along the way we meet some fascinating characters, including James, the likeable young and naïve cowboy; Murdo, always with a story or two of his latest amorous pursuits; and Marsh, who plays an unusual game of golf.

The Mulligan is a beautiful story, insightful and thought provoking, at times quite touching, occasionally very moving. It my not be the greatest writing, but it is a story well worth reading, and a story I am sure from which one will come away a better person for having read. ( )