Life. Be There at Ten 'Til.

Be accountable. Be responsible. Be on time. Or better yet, get there at ten til. You’ll be all the wiser—and all the more content!

This funny, insightful, life-affirming collection uses everyday moments—from the tobacco fields of South Carolina to red-carpet premieres in Hollywood—to demonstrate the value of showing up early, holding yourself accountable, welcoming change, nourishing others, and being fully present and engaged with life.

A native South Carolinian, R. Dean Johnson delivers homegrown wisdom that’s unassuming, gracious, and utterly charming. His uplifting, down-home life lessons include:

Stop hiding behind answering machines, caller ID, and front-door peepholes: be there, and welcome the intrusion. Honesty is a good policy. Sometimes it’s just not the best one. There’s nothing like a good casserole to say, “In time, you’ll heal. But in the meantime, this will make you feel somewhat better.”

As a fellow Husky-wearing southerner, I really relate to Dean’s anecdotes. This book is filled with lessons to never forget. – Ryan Seacrest, Host of American Idol

“Life. Be There at Ten ‘Til” is as refreshing as a glass of cold buttermilk sipped on the screened porch. – Celia Rivenbark, Author of Bless Your Heart, Tramp and We’re Just Like You, Only Prettier