Here's what readers are saying...
Here's what readers are saying...
Kevin Harper ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Good Friends are Forever is an adventure in storytelling. As you’re introduced to the lifelong buddies with nick-names that are their own story, you easily get caught up in their camping adventures. As opposed to stories where you know where its’ going, I was constantly surprised by the twists and turns; the revelations and new camping friends. The story works on several levels from the silly to the profound. It made me grin, let out a “mm-hmm” in agreement and laugh out loud. And with all stories of the heart, I got a little misty eyed. The story is an easy, conversational read. Because I felt, I truly knew these buddies; I cared about them and couldn’t wait to find out what the next day at Camp Pheidippides would hold for them. And just like the campers, I didn’t want it to end. As with all good friends, it stayed with me and wondering what’s next for Cujo and his friends. I wholeheartedly recommend Good Friends are Forever to anyone who is up for an adventure in friendship, self-exploration, and laughter.
Olivia ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Are you a Forever Friend? Do you aspire to be a Forever Friend? Do you have a Forever Friend? or Perhaps you are surrounded by many people you call friends....read this book. Start with the Title- figure out what that means to you, Good Friends are Forever. Then relax and let the picture be painted. It is funny, light, heartfelt, so much more, but we know reading and takeaways are relative. As you chuckle or cry along- which I did- this book became a little benchmark on where I need to set my bar on some friendships-and I certainly need to find myself a camp for adults. Well fellow readers- I hope you enjoy..... start reading- your takeaway...just might make you smile!
Tony ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I’m an avid reader and read 2-3 books a week and usually pass them on when finished. This book is a keeper! It hit me on many levels. It’s filled with humor, life’s lessons and the importance of friendship and those we truly care about. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a good read. It is a book I will undoubtedly be reading again.
Rick Nelson ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Good Friends Are Forever is the kind of book that makes you grin before you’ve even finished the first chapter. John P. Masterson introduces us to four lifelong friends—F Bomb, Mad Dog, Cujo, and Oppie—who prove that growing older does absolutely nothing to dull good humor, bad ideas, or the bonds formed in childhood. When they sign up for a senior summer camp in upstate New York, it’s clear that “quiet reflection” is not on the agenda—and that’s exactly where the fun begins. What makes this novel shine isn’t just the comedy (though there’s plenty of it), but the warmth underneath the laughs. Masterson captures the easy rhythm of long‑term friendship: the inside jokes, the shared memories, and the unspoken understanding that some people simply know you forever. The characters bicker, joke, and stumble their way through camp life, but beneath it all is a sincere reminder that friendship doesn’t retire—it just gets better stories. If you enjoy books that blend humor with heart and leave you feeling lighter than when you started, Good Friends Are Forever is a joyful ride. Think equal parts laughter, nostalgia, and the comforting realization that it’s never too late to have an adventure—especially with the right friends by your side. A thoroughly enjoyable read from a new author and gifted storyteller - a real joy and trip down memory lane.
Karen ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A FUN read, ENGAGING book, and EXCITING ride!
“Good Friends Are Forever” is a wonderful read—engaging, heartfelt, and relatable from start to finish. It reminded me how meaningful it is to grow older, discover new adventures, and share those moments with longtime friends. You don’t always realize the importance of those friendships until you reach the “third act” of your life, when the people who consistently showed up—who knew you best and helped you grow—stand out most clearly in your memories.
This book made me reflect on my own longtime friends and the experiences we’ve shared over the years. It inspired me to reconnect with them and start planning new adventures together—celebrating the past, appreciating who we are now, and embracing who we’re still becoming, just as Cujo does in the story.
Life is a journey, and Cujo’s story invites you to laugh, cry, and rediscover that childlike sense of wonder. Order it—you won’t regret it. After all, we rarely regret the things we’ve done; we regret the things we never tried.
Kate ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is a must read
What can I say, this was fantastic!! It hit all of the haunts of my relationship with my friends. Loved the humor and food for thought and would recommend it to anyone. I hope his next book comes out soon. This book is a keeper!!
Ken Setser ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
John Masterson is a gifted story teller. He makes you feel as if you are actually a participant in the story. On one level the focus is on how four young knuckleheads meet on their first day of kindergarten and how their lives develop and stay connected through recurring madcap annual events culminating with the week at Camp Pheidippides. On a deeper level it is about the deep bond of unconditional love that that grew and lasted four life-times. I came to love all four of these guys with the funny nicknames. I highly recommend This book is an uplifting read and I highly recommend it.
Ruth Gaines ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
What a delightful read. A true roller coaster ride of emotion. Good Friends are Forever, is a beautifully written testament to lifelong friendships that we all aspire to experience. The playful tone of the author keeps you fully engaged. I highly recommend this book to all.
Karen O. ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I really enjoyed this book: It was laugh out loud funny and totally relatable. I found myself wanting to find out what would happen next and still thinking about it weeks after finishing the book. My favorite parts were the digressions and the nicknames of all the characters, wishing I was from a place that rhymes with my own name. I really want to find a summer camp to attend. This book is a great summer vacation read.
Karen Arp ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Friends Are Forever” is a wonderful read—engaging, heartfelt, and relatable from start to finish. It reminded me how meaningful it is to grow older, discover new adventures, and share those moments with longtime friends. You don’t always realize the importance of those friendships until you reach the “third act” of your life, when the people who consistently showed up—who knew you best and helped you grow—stand out most clearly in your memories. This book made me reflect on my own longtime friends and the experiences we’ve shared over the years. It inspired me to reconnect with them and start planning new adventures together—celebrating the past, appreciating who we are now, and embracing who we’re still becoming, just as Cujo does in the story. Life is a journey, and Cujo’s story invites you to laugh, cry, and rediscover that childlike sense of wonder. Order it—you won’t regret it. After all, we rarely regret the things we’ve done; we regret the things we never tried.
Dorothy S. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A Masterclass in Self-Deprecation, Sarcasm, and Accidental Wisdom This novel is what happens when brutal honesty meets excellent comedic timing and decides to write a book instead of going to therapy. From the very first page, John proves that no one is safer from his sarcasm than himself. What makes this book so enjoyable isn’t just that it’s funny—though it is laugh-out-loud, snort-while-reading funny—but that it’s unmistakably real. Every awkward moment, ill-advised decision, and painfully relatable thought feels lived-in, observed, and then expertly skewered for our entertainment. Beneath the sarcasm and sharp commentary is a surprisingly thoughtful reflection on life, relationships, ambition, and the strange ways we all stumble forward pretending we know what we’re doing. If you enjoy sharp humor, unapologetic sarcasm, and books that make you feel seen while simultaneously mocking the human condition, this novel is an absolute must-read. In short: it’s hilarious, honest, and ridiculously enjoyable—and I can’t recommend it highly enough.
Dave M. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This was a great read, admittedly from someone who doesn't ordinarily set aside any time for reading. I enjoyed following the author from happenings at the camp to journeys back to the past with his mates. It made me think, isn't that what always occurs when you reconnect with old friends? The digressions made me laugh (because they are real!) and the characters were relatable a la Seinfeld - everyone knows an F-Bomb, an Anna, and a thrifty Oppie in their life! Take this one in and reflect on your own long-time relationships - it's a winner!
Clyde Robinson ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
If you like good character development then this is the book for you! With Opie, Mad dog, and F-Bomb all together in an adult summer camp, and don't forget Anna from Savannah, you'll be in for a ride. Besides the humor there are some tender moments. You will enjoy this book.
Ivy Perry ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Good Friends Are Forever is a story that truly touched my heart. It follows four lifelong friends, and after one of them passes away, the remaining three—now in their seventies—decide to attend a week long camp for seniors. What they experience there is a mix of funny adventures, shared memories, and emotional moments as they remember the friend they lost. As I read, I felt connected to the characters and their friendship. Their laughter made me smile, and their memories reminded me how powerful long lasting friendships can be and how much fun and laughter we can still have. The characters felt real, and their bond showed that friendship continues to matter no matter how old we get. This book stayed with me because it felt real, emotional, and filled with moments that genuinely made me laugh. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys heartfelt stories that balance humor with meaningful moments about friendship, aging, and cherishing the people we hold close.