Best Book of 2021! This is one of those books that received virtually no marketing, publicity, or recognition from any sources.I discovered it through a Book Podcast I listen to, Currently Reading, with Hosts Kaytee Cobb and Meredith Monday Schwartz-which is an EXCELLENT podcast.
Hubert Bird is an 82 year old, black widower from Jamaica, living alone and living a lie. He corresponds weeky with his daughrer, Rose, who lives in Australia. He describes his life to her, as one filled with fun, friendship, road trips and adventures. None of which is true.
When he receives news, his daughter is coming for a visit, he quickly looks for ways to assemble a life similar to the one he described to her, full of activity and friends. Hubert takes on an engaging, nostalgic trip through his past, living in Jamaica and then England.
As Hubert discovers, it is easy to retreat from the world and burrow in your house with your cat. Hubert's pesky neighbor, Ashley is relentless in getting him 'up and out the door.' She has help from other auspicious admirers, Jan, Gus and Joyce.
As the story, unfolds we learn of the tragedies, and the adversity Hubert has endured and begin to understand why he has retreated to a life alone. This book at times, can be a slow burn, but once you become attached to Hubert and his cast of characters-friends, you want to want to be there to hear their latest adventure, over a cup of "tea and biscuits."
Other Books by the Author:
Half a World Away 2020
The Man I Think I Know 2018
The To Do List 2009
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