A review by katewhite77
The Guncle by Steven Rowley

dark emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

This is the sweetest book I have read in a while. 

Gay Uncle Patrick takes in his young neice and nephew for the summer after their mum dies and their father admits himself to rehab.

Although Patrick and Grant are brothers, Greg met his wife Sarah through Patrick as they were college buddies.  

The loss of his boyfriend Joe, a few years before the book opens forces actor Patrick into early retirement to Palm Springs. So after the funeral in Coneticuit, Patrick,and the kids Masie and Grant head back there. 

What follows is a very sweet life affirming and queer possive tale about learning to live alongside grief and what it takes to be a good parent. Oh, and did I mention it is also very funny and perfect for when  you are  feeling under the weather. 

My only slight criticism is I would have liked to hear more from Jed, and if you want to know who Jed is well, then  you'll just have to read the book. 

The audiobook is a paticularly good way to  go with this one as it is read by  the author who rebrings out the humour. 

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