It has been a while since I have done a book post because its been a while since I read. But I am back in the groove again and have a few books I want to right about. The first one was one I read over the Easter Weekend called “confessions of a forty-something f##k up” by Alexander Potter.
I stumbled upon this book as I do most of my books. Jack was looking for a second hand copy of the Dune books so we were scouring some of our local second hand book shops. I much prefer these over new book stores, not just for the price but they just have such a cozy vibe. Anyway while Jack was looking I started browsing as well and found this gem. I have never read anything by this author before but I am now a fan and have already lined up my next Alexander Potter read.
confessions of a forty-something f##k up
This book is everyone over 40! Even though Nell, the main character, was single and childless I identified with her in every way and at one point actually thought I could have written this book. Just another reminder that nothing we experience in life is unique!
The book follows Nell’s, a forty-something book editor, journey back home after a break-up as she slowly starts putting her life back together all the while lamenting that she is nowhere near where she thought she would be at this stage of life.
She forms an unlikely friendship with the 80 year old Cricket and it is such a special friendship that I am considering seeking out my very own Cricket. She navigates changing dynamics with her life long friends who are, where she thought she would be – married with children and successful careers.
The book deals with so many emotions and experiences from grief, trauma, family dynamics, career changes, self worth and so much more. It navigates all of these emotions with such authenticity and realness that I can only think the author has lived them herself or she is an incredibly skilled writer – or perhaps both.
Having dealt with a traumatic loss of a child recently I can say with authority that the way she writes about grief is spot on. It captures the sadness, the unexpectedness and the pain of “moving on” with life. There were parts that made me cry with how spot on she got it.
I loved everything about this book. The layout – it starts in January and each month is a series of confessions and gratitude’s. The characters – the eco-obsessed Edward, player Johnny, mean-girl Annabel, outrageous Cricket and of course the flawed but perfect Nell. The setting – there really is no other place this could be set than England.
If you haven’t read this, you have to add it to your list today.
While I was writing this I discovered that they made a series based on this book called Not Dead Yet which I have seen and is a good show but no where near as good as the book!
I listen to Audiobooks and this is on my list to get around to eventually. It sounds like a good read.