Reviews

The Guncle Abroad by Steven Rowley

booksandchisme's review

adventurous funny inspiring lighthearted sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

kaitlynyoung24's review against another edition

emotional inspiring slow-paced

3.0

dianafraser17's review

adventurous emotional lighthearted reflective fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

It is very hard to write an excellent sequel, but Steven Rowley did just that in bringing the beloved Guncle characters back in all their wonderful, messy ways. 

The pacing is quick witted and an emotional rollercoaster with just enough tension to bring you to the finish line. 

The sibling representation and its nuances are so carefully done, and encompass my own memories of siblinghood. 

The next stage of grief is the intangible other character in this book, and it adeptly captures what it means to love those who are gone, yet continue to grow. Chosen family and the family we make together - within the queer community and outside of it - cannot and should not be underestimate in its importance.

I finished this book with a twinge in my heart, and am grateful for it!

mindi1083's review against another edition

funny lighthearted fast-paced

4.25

aimevans09's review

emotional funny hopeful lighthearted reflective

4.5

a_reader_obsessed's review

emotional funny medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

The Guncle is back and is still in fine form!

Again, I don’t want to go into too many details. What I will say is that often, sequels have an upward climb to maintain that glowing first feeling of the original and while completely understandable, the older Maisie and Grant weren’t as captivating as they were 5 years younger. I completely know that Rowley depicted these characters realistically but sullen and antagonistic (mostly on Maisie’s part) with an uphill battle to try and really engage these two dulled the shine for me a bit.

However, Rowley brings back Patrick’s trademark wit and snark (especially deployed against a new nemesis), and I was continuously charmed by his world weary view, his apt observations of love which he too, needs to embrace and employ.

The one constant in life is always change, and this continued commentary on grief was a poignant reminder of its effect on how people heal and evolve without those they loved dearly.

Overall, honestly, I never expected to get another book about Patrick and company, but if Rowley deigns to give us more, I’ll be here to read their next adventure!  Cheers to that wonderful ending!

Thank you to the author and GP Putnam’s Sons via NetGalley for a copy in exchange for a honest review 

basicbsguide's review against another edition

emotional funny lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

So nice to be back with GUP and the kids.  Funny and heartwarming.  lol and a few tears. Just a feel good story and I loved the authors narration.

anniekslibrary's review

4.0

I vividly remember reading The Guncle, lying in my hammock on a perfect summer day. Getting to read the sequel on a sunny Sunday afternoon proved just as enjoyable. This book is again full of summer vibes, and it was lovely being back with these characters. I will be the first to admit Patrick would quickly exhaust me in real life with his constant quips, and he's certainly not a perfect person, but he is witty and wise and always doing his best to be a great uncle for Maisie and Grant.

I do want to warn people that this has some Harry Potter references, as Grant is a fan. It is discussed why we shouldn't support the series and author, though.

crystalclearchapters's review

adventurous emotional funny lighthearted reflective relaxing slow-paced

3.0

bookishinidahome's review against another edition

adventurous emotional funny hopeful lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0