Nicholas Sparks uses a three week tour with his brother as a way to present and work through his own autobiography. The tears come so easily reading his fiction because they come from his own emotions. Family relationships are the most important thing in his life and trying to "balance" is an ongoing struggle. Sparks uses his writing to resolve things in his life, and uses his life to enhance his writing. I recommend this fast read when you want a laugh, a cry, and maybe some introspection into your own relationships.