Review of That's what Ed said

Olga Markova · Post by **Olga Markova** » 13 Dec 2023, 13:09

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "That's what Ed said" by U A Dumas.]

5 out of 5 stars

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That’s what Ed said. by U. A. Dumas is a captivating life story of Leslie Edward Dumas, a retired school principal and math teacher. The author claims that Leslie, a.k.a. Ed, and all other characters are fictional. However, the way Leslie talks about his adventures, events, emotions, and thoughts makes him very realistic and very relatable. Reading this captivating story of Leslie’s life, I felt like I was sitting in a pub opposite Leslie telling me his story in person.

Leslie’s life story is very colorful. He is very open-minded in the hindsight of his behaviors, achievements, and failures. I took to Leslie early in the book because he is honest with himself and with his readers. And, notwithstanding the abuse he had suffered, he managed to keep in the right mind, retain his kind heart, and even look positively at the lessons he learned from his troubles. More than once, Leslie’s adventures made me chuckle and think that boys never grow up!

His life story traverses many grounds. The story covers Leslie’s childhood and his adult life, his relationships with his parents, siblings, classmates, girlfriends, and wife. Leslie talks about his good and bad adventures, and most of all I liked spelunking, sledding, and mountain hikes in winter. Leslie portrays his married life in a kaleidoscope of emotions, all of which resonated with me. Leslie’s care for his siblings and friends on a mountain hike is beyond all praise.

That’s what Ed said. by U. A. Dumas is one of the best life stories I read recently. It is exceptionally well written and meticulously edited, without a single error. I can fault no aspect of this fascinating book, and I happily give it five out of five stars.

Thinking of the audience for this praiseworthy novel, first and foremost, I recommend it to parents and teachers, because the abuse Leslie suffered as a child impacted his whole life. I also recommend this book to fans of adventure novels because of the breathtaking adventures Leslie describes. As a word of caution, the book has a few explicitly erotic and sexual scenes that are unpalatable for young readers.

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That's what Ed said
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Rachid el jaouani · Post by **Rachid el jaouani** » 18 Dec 2023, 03:16

is a delightful read, blending humor and insight seamlessly. The narrative follows Ed's whimsical yet profound perspectives, offering a refreshing take on everyday life. With its witty prose and relatable anecdotes, this book is a charming reminder to find wisdom in the ordinary moments

Yasmine Zaki Muhieddine · Post by **Yasmine Zaki Muhieddine** » 18 Dec 2023, 04:49

There is a lot to unpack with this book. It is a story of lifetime that was never dull. I didn't read the book yet, but I feel that the author is a sensible and smart person; he mentioned so many aspects of life including all types of relationships. It sounds like an interesting book that offers a lot of food for thoughts. I will add it to my shelves.

Post by **Conshelle Dwight William** » 27 Dec 2023, 02:53

That’s what Ed said. by U. A. Dumas is a captivating life story of Leslie Edward Dumas, a retired school principal and math teacher. The author claims that Leslie, a.k.a. Ed, and all other characters are fictional. However, the way Leslie talks about his adventures, events, emotions, and thoughts makes him very realistic and very relatable. Reading this captivating story of Leslie’s life, I felt like I was sitting in a pub opposite Leslie telling me his story in person.

Donaking · Post by **Donaking** » 25 Jan 2024, 22:03

The review for "Share Thats what Ed said." by U. A. Dumas is very positive, describing the book as a captivating and well-written life story. The reviewer finds the protagonist, Leslie Edward Dumas, to be relatable and realistic. The adventures and emotions depicted in the book resonated with the reviewer, and they appreciated Leslie's honesty and positive outlook despite the abuse he suffered. The reviewer highly recommends the book, particularly to parents, teachers, and fans of adventure novels. However, they caution that the explicit erotic scenes may not be suitable for young readers. Overall, it appears to be a good read with no flaws mentioned in the review.

Lilo n Stitch · Post by **Lilo n Stitch** » 02 Feb 2024, 23:25

Based on your review, the book sounds like a riveting journey through Leslie Edward Dumas's colorful life. Your vivid description makes it feel like you're sharing a drink with Leslie, hearing his tales firsthand. The honesty and resilience you highlight in Leslie's character make this memoir even more intriguing. And it's impressive that the author crafted such a faultless narrative. Thanks for the heads up regarding the sensitivity potrayed in the book.

Post by **Rebecca De Figueiredo** » 23 Jun 2025, 10:06

I enjoyed the tone and personable feel of the sample that I read. The reviewer is right, if I didn’t read that it was a fictional work from the introduction, I would have read it thinking it was true. Seems like a readable and entertaining read.

Post by **Sushan Ekanayake** » 23 Jun 2025, 10:09

"That’s What Ed Said" by U.A. Dumas is a heartfelt, humorous, and honest life story of Leslie Edward Dumas—a retired principal whose wild adventures, childhood trauma, and resilient spirit come alive on the page. Congratulations on being BOTD!

Chi Chiu Michael Mak · Post by **Chi Chiu Michael Mak** » 23 Jun 2025, 10:30

Leslie is self-aware and does not sugarcoat anything, which is what makes this book a great one! The abuse helps generate audience sympathy. I am glad the book does not overdo it. Most people will be attracted by the book's trifecta of humour, heart and honesty.

Lauren Stjohn · Post by **Lauren Stjohn** » 23 Jun 2025, 10:39

It is nice to see a review of a book speckled with a bit of humor. Leslie had many adventures and his story telling gathers an enthusiastic desire to read the entirety of the book. His account and the effects of Covid-19 opened the window to a refreshing perspective of life. This is a nice review.

Post by **Sanju Lali** » 23 Jun 2025, 10:44

One can find a captivating life story of a retired principal and maths teacher by reading the book "That's what Ed said" by U A Dumas. The book tells about adventures, events, emotions, and thoughts makes it very realistic.

Macel A · Post by **Macel A** » 23 Jun 2025, 10:52

Leslie seems to have hard an interesting life and despite the abuse he faced as a child he didn't allow it to change his kindness which is rare nowadays. Great review

Post by **Limpho Mojakisane** » 23 Jun 2025, 11:00

Leslie sounds like a very real and honest character. I like that the book doesn’t hide from tough topics like childhood abuse but also includes fun and adventurous moments. It’s great to see a story that mixes emotion, humor, and life lessons so well.

Love Ukaegbu · Post by **Love Ukaegbu** » 23 Jun 2025, 11:21

That’s what Ed said. by U. A. Dumas is a well-written book with a relatable story. Being a retired teacher, I'm sure he had a lot of experience. Congratulations on the book of the day.

Post by **Seetha E** » 23 Jun 2025, 11:38

I can imagine how much the author’s students must have enjoyed having a teacher like him after reading his uniquely captivating writing. I appreciate the comprehensive overview that outlines what to expect from the book. It assures readers of an insightful experience. Congratulations on being Book of the Day!