"Summer Memories Marred by Dad's Fiery Fiascos: A Comedic Look Back at the Perils of Backyard Barbecues. Growing up, summertime was supposed to be a carefree season of sunshine and laughter, but for one family, it was a time of terror. A new personal essay recounts the author's childhood memories of family barbecues, where their well-meaning but hapless father would attempt to grill the perfect burger, often with disastrous results. From exploding briquettes to burnt offerings, these comedic anecdotes offer a nostalgic and relatable look at the perils of summertime grilling."


The remarkably short and sweet summers of my childhood spark comical (yet somewhat frightening) memories of family barbecues with my dad recklessly coaxing stubborn brickettes to burst into glowing ...