Did you grow up without a father (or mother)? Please read this.

[Keenan]

Hi there,

I've lived with both parents since I was born, so I don't know what it's like to grow up without a father (or mother) in my life.

Here's the thing:

I'm writing a novel, and the main character grew up without a father in her life, and her mother was very uninvolved.

I'm wondering if you'd share your stories and experiences growing up without one (or both) of your parents at all.

How did it shape you and your life?

And what are your attitudes toward the absent parent?

Or anything else you think I should know.

I'd love to read your stories!

[Snowfox]

I have. in case u want to know let me know

[jamie_n5]

I have both parents but want to wish you good luck with your novel.

[Shortie]

I can somewhat relate to this; not everyone can have a happy, healthy relationship with their parents and some parents aren't fit to be a parent.

[Barbara.]

I grew up with both parents until a little over 2 years ago, Mom and Dad divorced and since then Dad remarried. Mom had my baby brother shortly after they divorced, so now it's only been my brother mom and I. Although dad has been remarried he has always been in our lives for whatever we need him for ,he has always been there for us.

[fidgetykid]

when i was born my mum and dad were divorced so i never grew up with my mum and dad together - i mainly live with my dad though since my mum has a busy job so dont see her alot

[Wallky]

I grew up without a biological father. but the man whom I call dad was always the best parent.

[CoryW]

My mom left when I was little. I live with my dad

[Stanley02]

My parents are still together but I barely see them because I go to boarding school..... dunno if that helps or not

[StacyD]

I am no expert on literature or writing, but I do read a lot and have read enough to spot works that feel contrived or artificial. For now, I think you should write what you know. Draw upon your own life experiences and background and your novel will flow so much more naturally. It will just start spilling out and you'll find it far easier to write, rather than having to come on to an internet forum fishing for the experiences of others. Good luck.

[West Coast Sheriff]

Hi there,

I've lived with both parents since I was born, so I don't know what it's like to grow up without a father (or mother) in my life.

Here's the thing:

I'm writing a novel, and the main character grew up without a father in her life, and her mother was very uninvolved.

I'm wondering if you'd share your stories and experiences growing up without one (or both) of your parents at all.

How did it shape you and your life?

And what are your attitudes toward the absent parent?

Or anything else you think I should know.

I'd love to read your stories!


I lived with each of my parents 50% of the time but never together. Both of my single parents raised me well.

No father? This main character should be very dysfunctional.
Uninvolved mother? Who took care of your character when they were a child? What kind of issues do they have as an adult? Are they strong enough to be a worthy protaganist?

I am no expert on literature or writing, but I do read a lot and have read enough to spot works that feel contrived or artificial. For now, I think you should write what you know. Draw upon your own life experiences and background and your novel will flow so much more naturally. It will just start spilling out and you'll find it far easier to write, rather than having to come on to an internet forum fishing for the experiences of others. Good luck.

It is an uphill battle to speculate and write about something you don't understand.

I am a budding novelist and would be willing to help to the best of my abilities.