In this memoir, first-time author Erika Nomland Cilengir, an only child, reflects on the joy and challenges of being gifted an exceptional parent. Cilengir introduces you to the five key lessons she learned from her father, acclaimed mid-20th Century American artist and architect Kemper Nomland, Jr., during the 53 years he was in her life - lessons that shaped her outlook and her path. His smile had a way of bringing a person around before a word was ever spoken. It was genuine and disarming - a persuasive foil that made people open themselves up to his unique worldview. That was just one of her father's superpowers, which Cilengir introduces us to in a book that is both poignant and inspiring. In the Shadow of a Maverick: Lessons From My Father© is part tribute to Cilengir's father's legacy of commitment to his values and part reflection on how the lessons he imparted have fueled her actions to this day. The book also acknowledges what it means to live in the shadow of a larger-than-life parent and always be on a quest to measure up.