By the Time You Read This

Already a national bestseller in the U.K., Lola Jaye’s By the Time You Read This is a profoundly beautiful story of a father’s abiding love for the daughter he will never see grow up—and his determination to help guide her through the difficult crossroads and crises of her life even after his own passing. Poignant and unforgettable, evoking in part The Pursuit of Happyness and The Last Lecture, By the Time You Read This celebrates a remarkable bond of love that can never be broken, not even by death.

When he discovered that he had only six months to live, thirty-year-old Kevin Bates picked up his pen and wrote The Manual—advice for his five-year-old daughter, Lois, to live by, laugh at, and follow from twelve until thirty. Seven years later, when Lois is given The Manual, she can barely bring herself to read her father's words, the pain of his loss is still so raw. Yet soon Kevin's advice is guiding her through every stage of life from teen angst to career arcs, to knowing when she's at long last met "the one." While The Manual can never be a substitute for having Kevin back, the words left behind become Lois's steady support through all of life's ups and downs, and prove invaluable to unlocking the key to happiness.

“Filled with useful advice on coping with the ups and downs of life…This is a heartwarming tale of the power of father-daughter love.” - Prima

“A lovely, exuberant tearjerker of a book, perfect for curling up with on a wet afternoon.” - Lisa Jewell

“A stunning debut.” - Pride, UK

“A thought-provoking, lovely tale that will make you laugh and cry.” - The Sun, UK

“Curl up and read immediately…a real tearjerker. After reading this, I felt that every parent should write a manual for their kids, a book of good memories or advice. The book is a reflection of the unconditional love parents have for their children.” - The Herald (South Africa)