Father's Day Book Club Blog: "Fall Back Down When I Die" by Joe Wilkins, a Summer Rye Cocktail, and Loaded Tater Tot Cups
- Melani Redmiles-Quinley
- Jun 18, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 18
Father’s Day is the perfect occasion to celebrate the dads and father figures who have shaped our lives with their love and sacrifice. This month, we are reading, "Fall Back Down When I Die" by Joe Wilkins, a moving novel that delves into themes of fatherhood, responsibility, and redemption. To enhance our discussion, we’ll be sipping on a refreshing Summer Rye cocktail and indulging in some delicious Loaded Tater Tot Cups. Here’s to a memorable Father’s Day celebration with great literature, drinks, and snacks!
About the Book
"Fall Back Down When I Die" is a gripping tale set in the stark and beautiful Montana Badlands. The story follows Wendell Newman, a young man struggling to make ends meet after his mother’s death. Wendell’s life changes dramatically when he becomes the guardian of Rowdy, his incarcerated cousin’s mute and troubled son. As Wendell and Rowdy navigate their new life together, they form a deep bond that highlights the challenges and rewards of fatherhood. The novel also touches on broader themes such as land rights and community conflicts, making it a rich and thought-provoking read.
Why It’s a Perfect Father’s Day Read
Deep Exploration of Fatherhood:
Wendell’s journey from reluctant guardian to dedicated father figure encapsulates the essence of fatherhood, showcasing its challenges and rewards.
Complex Characters:
The richly drawn characters and their intricate relationships provide ample material for discussion, making this novel a perfect choice for our book club.
Themes of Sacrifice and Protection:
The story emphasizes the sacrifices made out of love and duty, resonating with the experiences of many fathers.
Engaging Setting:
The Montana Badlands serve as a powerful backdrop, enhancing the narrative’s emotional and thematic depth.
Discussion Questions
How does Wendell’s character evolve throughout the novel? What are the pivotal moments in his journey?
In what ways does Wendell’s relationship with Rowdy reflect the complexities of father-son dynamics, particularly in non-traditional family structures?
How do the socio-political issues in the novel intersect with the personal stories of the characters?
What role does the setting play in shaping the narrative and the characters' identities?
Discuss the theme of sacrifice in the novel. How do the characters’ sacrifices influence their relationships and the overall story?
A Perfect Pairing: Summer Rye Cocktail
To complement our discussion of "Fall Back Down When I Die," we’ll be enjoying the refreshing and sophisticated Summer Rye cocktail. Here’s the recipe:
Summer Rye Ingredients:
1 1/2 ounces Sazerac rye whiskey
3/4 ounce St-Germain elderflower liqueur
1/4 ounce simple syrup
3/4 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 ounce Fuji apple juice
Champagne, chilled, to top (approximately 3/4 ounce)
Garnish: apple cubes
Instructions:
In a shaker, combine the rye whiskey, St-Germain, simple syrup, lemon juice, and apple juice with ice.
Shake well until chilled.
Strain into a chilled glass.
Top with Champagne.
Garnish with apple cubes.
Delicious Treat: Loaded Tater Tot Cups
To accompany our drinks and enhance the festive atmosphere, we’ll be munching on some delectable Loaded Tater Tot Cups. Here’s how to make them:
Loaded Tater Tot Cups Ingredients:
16 ounces tater tots
3/4 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup sour cream
5 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
3 green onions, sliced
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Arrange tater tots in a single layer in a mini muffin tin.
Bake for 15-20 minutes until crispy.
Remove from the oven and use a spoon to gently press the tots into cup shapes.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese into each tater tot cup.
Return to the oven for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
Top each cup with a dollop of sour cream, crumbled bacon, and sliced green onions.
Final Thoughts
"Fall Back Down When I Die" by Joe Wilkins is a compelling exploration of fatherhood, making it an ideal read for Father’s Day. Paired with the sophisticated Summer Rye cocktail and the savory Loaded Tater Tot Cups, our book club meeting is set to be a delightful and memorable celebration. Let’s raise our glasses and toast to the fathers and father figures who enrich our lives with their love and dedication.
Happy Father’s Day, and cheers to a fantastic book club gathering!
Happy R-E-D-ing!
Please note that these recipes and photos were not created by me. I am just a hungry and thirsty reader with an appreciation for the finer things!
REFERENCES AND PHOTO CREDITS:
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