In “How to Age Disgracefully,” Clare Pooley weaves a heartwarming tale that challenges conventional perceptions about ageing and celebrates the vibrancy of life at any age. Set in Hammersmith, London, this ensemble comedy introduces us to a disparate group of pensioners who come together to save their local community centre from closure. Here’s why this book is a delightful read:
Loveable, Flawed Characters:
Pooley excels at creating authentic, mature characters. From Iona Iverson in “The People on Platform 5” to the feisty Daphne in this novel, her protagonists are relatable and endearing. Daphne, on her 70th birthday, decides to step out of her self-imposed invisibility and join a senior citizens’ club. Little does she know that her life is about to take an unexpected turn.
Witty and Fun:
Witty and Fun:The book is a delightful romp, reminiscent of Richard Osman’s “Thursday Murder Club” series. It’s filled with humour, camaraderie, and mischievous life lessons. The characters—whether young or old—defy stereotypes, proving that age is just a number.
Multi-Generational Dynamics:
Through Daphne’s interactions with her newfound friends, we witness the wisdom of “you are like a child twice.” The old and young learn from each other, and their desire to be seen beyond appearances creates genuine connections.
Themes of Belonging and Second Chances:
As the group rallies to save their community centre, the novel explores themes of belonging, friendship, and second chances. Readers will appreciate the warmth and light-heartedness even when tackling heavier topics like teen pregnancy and loss.
Unbreakable Relationships:
Unbreakable Relationships:Ultimately, the true value lies in the relationships forged within the community. The centre becomes more than just a physical space—it’s a place where hearts connect.
“How to Age Disgracefully” is a tremendously cute yet insightful read. Whether you’re looking for light relief or a heartwarming story, this book delivers. Clare Pooley’s knack for charming characters and engaging storytelling shines through, making it a joy to read.
Thank you Penguin Random House SA for this gifted copy.
About this book: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.co.za/book/how-age-disgracefully
About the author: https://clarepooley.com/
https://www.tiktok.com/@roelia_reads/video/7382620116829392134?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7223824388432414213
If you enjoyed this book, I recommend you read:
- The Excitements by C.J. Wray
- The Thursday Murder Club Series – by Richard Osman
- Review: The People on Platform 5 by Clare Pooley
