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The Authenticity Project by Clare Pooley

The Authenticity Project

Pooley ClareAbout this book

(Blurb from Penguin Random House)

The Authenticity Project

Pooley ClareMy Thoughts

“The truth often isn’t pretty. It’s not aspirational. It doesn’t fit neatly into a little square on Instagram.”

“The Authenticity Project” by Clare Pooley is a heartwarming tale that revolves around a simple green notebook titled “The Authenticity Project.” The story begins with Julian Jessop, an eccentric and lonely artist, who writes his truth in the notebook and leaves it in a café. This act sets off a chain reaction as the notebook is picked up by various characters, each adding their own stories and secrets. The narrative unfolds through multiple points of view, giving readers a glimpse into the lives of a motley crew of strangers who are brought together by this shared experience.

“You have such energy. You’re like the sun. When you’re interested in someone, you turn your rays towards them and they luxuriate in your warmth. But then you turn somewhere else, leaving them in the shadow, and they spend all their energy trying to recreate the memory of your light.”

The Authenticity Project

Pooley ClareThemes:

The novel explores several themes, including the importance of authenticity and the impact of honesty on relationships. It delves into the insecurities and flaws of its characters, highlighting how these vulnerabilities can lead to unexpected bonds and friendships. The story also touches on the simplicity of happiness and kindness, showing how small acts of honesty can have a profound effect on others’ lives.

“Monica, why does everything have to have a point? Why does it all have to be part of a plan? Sometimes it’s best to let things just grow naturally, like wildflowers.”

What Worked:

One of the strengths of “The Authenticity Project” is its relatable and well-rounded characters. Each character has a distinct personality, and their interactions are both delightful and heartwarming. The multiple points of view add depth to the narrative, allowing readers to connect with each character on a personal level. The story is feel-good and uplifting, with a wonderful blend of humour and emotion. Despite being a bit predictable and relying on coincidences, the book remains thoroughly enjoyable due to its charm and the complexity of emotions it portrays.

“One of the benefits of being an artist is that you spend so much time watching people, looking not just at all the shades and contours of their faces, but into their souls. It gives you an almost uncanny insight.”

The Authenticity Project

Pooley ClareWho May Enjoy This Book:

This book is perfect for readers who enjoy feel-good, heartwarming stories with quirky and lovable characters. Fans of contemporary fiction that focuses on human connections and the impact of small acts of kindness will find “The Authenticity Project” particularly appealing. It is also a great choice for those who appreciate stories with multiple points of view and a diverse cast of characters.

“Surely it would be better to live a messy, flawed, sometimes not very pretty life that was real and honest, than to constantly try to live up to a life of perfection that was actually a sham?”

Conclusion:

“Everyone lies about their lives. What would happen if you shared the truth instead? The one thing that defines you, that makes everything else about you fall into place? Not on the internet, but with those real people around you?”

“The Authenticity Project” is Clare Pooley’s first novel, and it sets the stage for her hallmark style of bringing together a cast of quirky strangers. The book is wholesome and uplifting, with a delightful narrative that celebrates the complexity of emotions and the simplicity of happiness. It is a testament to the power of authenticity and the unexpected bonds that can form when people open up and share their true selves. It is a thoroughly enjoyable read that leaves a lasting impression.

“She thought of all her new friends, with their lives that didn’t look beautiful on an Instagram square, yet who were so much deeper, stronger and more interesting than that.”

Thank you to Penguin Random House SA for the opportunity to read this book.

About the author:

Clare Pooley

 

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