The Theory of Fil

This thought-provoking read is from someone who, on their first day of work as a Janitor's protege in elementary school, realizes this is not your typical janitor. Phil takes us on a life journey that sees his worldview change from his very first experiences in middle school. Under the tutelage of Mr. Bartlow, much of what Phil learns follows him through life. This warm-hearted and enticing memoir will draw the reader into a new understanding of what it is to become wise.

Phil Bolser was in late stage renal failure when he wrote his memoir. His journey begins in junior high school, working for a janitor that molds his world view and teaches him lessons for life. As Phil shares his early experiences, we are introduced to boyhood friends and a way of life long past. Phil uses story telling and a narrative style to move the reader from vignette to vignette as he describes his family life, and his approach to managing schools and teachers. He explains his haves/have-nots theory as he continually brings the reader back to Mr. Bartlow, the school janitor. Phils world view, his deviate from the norm thinking, and his desire to help the have-not's through education are front and center in his journey from Tilton Elementary School, in Illinois to Highland Heights Elementary and Hibberd Middle School in Richmond, Indiana.

For over 32 years, Phil Bolser was a public school administrator in Illinois and Indiana. He was a creative thinker who liked to as he says, "deviate from the norm." He was active in his church and local community, always putting others above himself. He had an infectious smile, loved sports, and was, married to his high school sweetheart Mary, for 57 years. He was the proud father of three accomplished young men, grandfather to ten amazing grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Phil was in late-stage renal failure as he worked to finish his book. It is a thought-provoking read that will warm the heart and challenge the reader.