52 pages • 1 hour read
J.R. MoehringerThe Tender Bar
Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | YA | Published in 2005A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In The Tender Bar, J.R. Moehringer recounts his journey from childhood to young adulthood, shaped by his move from his abusive father and his close relationship with the men at Publicans bar in Manhasset. These men serve as surrogate father figures, deeply influencing his sense of masculinity, identity, and belonging, while Moehringer navigates his academic struggles and aspirations to become a writer. The memoir deals with themes of domestic violence and substance abuse.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Consistently praised for its evocative prose and heartfelt storytelling, The Tender Bar has captivated readers. Moehringer's memoir skillfully depicts his quest for paternal figures, evoking nostalgia and resilience. However, some found the narrative occasionally meandering. Overall, it's a compelling exploration of identity and belonging.
Who Should Read The Tender Bar?
Readers who cherish memoirs of self-discovery, warm-hearted coming-of-age stories, and rich portrayals of community life will enjoy J.R. Moehringer's The Tender Bar. Fans of Jeannette Walls' The Glass Castle or Frank McCourt's Angela's Ashes will likely find Moehringer's journey and compelling characters resonate deeply.