A review by claudiaslibrarycard
A Calling for Charlie Barnes by Joshua Ferris

emotional funny lighthearted reflective 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? Yes

5.0

Charlie Barnes is a man in his late sixties who has lost his shirt in the 2008 crash and he's been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Sounds like a real bummer, doesn't it? Well fear not, this book is hilarious, tender, and sharp as a tack. 

Told as a history of the man, we learn so much about all of the failed jobs (and marriages) that brought Charlie Barnes to 2008. We learn about what motivated him and who he loved, and while you think you can guess where this book will head- I almost guarantee you won't guess correctly. 

The audiobook is narrated by Nick Offerman, so don't miss that if you like a good listen. I loved this book, I can't say anything near as intelligent as what Joshua Ferris has presented in this novel so just read it.