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A review by shelf_life_with_jay
The Guncle Abroad by Steven Rowley
emotional
funny
reflective
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? No
4.0
The Guncle Abroad is a delightful and emotionally rich follow-up that manages to strike the perfect balance between humor and heartfelt introspection. I adored how Gay Uncle Patrick (GUP) once again steps up for Maisie and Grant, offering them his signature blend of wit, wisdom, and Guncle Rules™—always delivered in the most charming and digestible ways.
What sets this book apart, though, is how much deeper it goes into Patrick’s own growth. While the kids are learning lifelong lessons under his guidance, Patrick quietly begins to realize that those lessons aren’t just for them. Watching him internalize the very rules he’s created, and finally embrace the idea that he deserves happiness too, was incredibly meaningful and beautifully handled.
This book was emotionally sound and relevant in all the right ways. I laughed, teared up, and closed it with a full heart. The only reason it’s not five stars for me is that a few pacing moments slowed it down just a tad—but overall, The Guncle Abroad is a warm hug of a novel that reminds us all to love deeply, live fully, and never underestimate the power of a fabulous kaftan or ascot.
What sets this book apart, though, is how much deeper it goes into Patrick’s own growth. While the kids are learning lifelong lessons under his guidance, Patrick quietly begins to realize that those lessons aren’t just for them. Watching him internalize the very rules he’s created, and finally embrace the idea that he deserves happiness too, was incredibly meaningful and beautifully handled.
This book was emotionally sound and relevant in all the right ways. I laughed, teared up, and closed it with a full heart. The only reason it’s not five stars for me is that a few pacing moments slowed it down just a tad—but overall, The Guncle Abroad is a warm hug of a novel that reminds us all to love deeply, live fully, and never underestimate the power of a fabulous kaftan or ascot.