John Grogan grew up in the American midwest as the son of comically devout Irish Catholic parents who were pious to the point of eccentricity. Cruets of holy water and statues of the Virgin Mary were everywhere. Rosary beads hung from bedposts, Mass was a daily obligation and altar boy training was mandatory. There were strong expectations that all four Grogan children would embrace religion with enthusiasm and more than one would enter the priesthood. And then there was John. The Unbeliever.

From first confession mishaps and family holidays to religious sites, the first illicit cigarettes and the frustrating quest to lose one's virginity, LONGEST TRIP HOME is a story only John could tell - filled with moments of poignancy and heartfelt revelation - and, of course, incisive humour.

At its heart, LONGEST TRIP HOME is a universal story about growing up, outgrowing your parents, and making peace with them before it's too late. Given John's inimitable style this story is a wonderful mixture of laughter, universal emotion and tears.