There is a prevailing stereotype in the United States of African American children having absent fathers, either physically or emotionally. The absence of father figures can negatively impact a child academically and behaviorally. On the other hand, having positive male role models can enhance a child’s well-being.

Fathers Matter: Changing the Narrative on Black Fathers aims to turn the stereotype of the absent African American father on its head. In this anthology, eighteen African American co-authors reflect upon their varied fatherhood experiences. Some share stories of their childhoods with their fathers and father-like figures. Others write about their interactions with their children and being fathers or father-like figures themselves.

As the stories in this anthology illustrate, fatherhood can take a variety of forms. However the experience looks, it is powerful and impactful for all involved. Rife with emotion, Fathers Matter is a beautiful depiction of all that fatherhood does to a person.