“John Hamilton writes that ‘music itself is an act of hope.’ So too is this memoir. In writing the story of his remarkable trek from hard-living Boston musician to humble pastor leading a small New England parish, John nimbly explores big questions while leaning into the mystery of faith and the meaning of success.” — Alysia Abbott, author of Fairyland: A Memoir of My Father
“Every musician is seeking transcendence. John Hamilton gives us a snapshot of his journey not only as he aspires to the glitter, gold, and platinum at the top of the charts but to a ‘still small voice’ deep within. In a surprising turn, John ordains as a minister, finding his heart and soul in community and in a committed family life. Deeply personal, this is a riveting, inspiring, and unique story; I couldn’t put it down.”
— Tim Collins, former manager of Aerosmith
“A wistful elegy to sacred calling through a wildly varied human life. With prose both raw and luxurious, John Hamilton limns how God can panic us, pluck us out of places of both comfort and acclaim, and send us tumbling ever forward into the mystery–including into a life beyond conventional Christian faith, but a life still faithful.”
— Molly Baskette, author of How to Begin When Your World Is Ending: A Spiritual Field Guide to Joy Despite Everything
“They say that every person has a story and every life is a journey. But few people have the talent to tell their story with the humor, grace, and insight that John Hamilton brings to his. And what a journey! Twists and turns, rising and falling action, high drama and low comedy, all sweeping us toward a deep and satisfying conclusion. It’s an autobiography that reads like a terrific page-turning novel. Don’t miss it.”
— William Martin, New York Times Bestselling Author of Cape Cod and December ’41
“A stirring, deeply important, reckoning with faith, loss, and one man’s search for meaning. This book spoke to my soul and will stay with me.”
— Alex Marzano-Lesnevitch, author of The Fact of a Body: A Murder and a Memoir
“Years ago, when I first read Thomas Merton’s Seven Story Mountain, I realized my deep appreciation for the spiritual memoir genre. It is important because it encourages us to embrace our own unique and valid spiritual journeys, and to live them authentically with courage, intention, and joy. John Hamilton’s Honest To God is another valuable contribution to this category.”
— David Hayward, aka The Naked Pastor
“John Hamilton is a warm, kind, funny, thoughtful writer, and everything he writes is worth reading. Don’t miss this one!”
— Catherine Baab-Muguira, author of Poe For Your Problems
“A marvelous and thought-provoking read on so many levels. John Hamilton has beautifully woven his memoir in the tradition of the finest Irish storytellers, whether he’s onstage or in the pulpit.”
— Kevin O’Hara, author of Last of the Donkey Pilgrims: A Man’s Journey Through Ireland
