A review by hickorynut
The Secret Life of Albert Entwistle by Matt Cain

emotional hopeful reflective medium-paced

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

3.75

This was a sweet story of a man named Albert who is notified of his impending forced retirement as a postal worker due to his age. He has always kept to himself, and finds himself rattled and unsure about his future. The loss of his feline companion, Gracie, sent him into a depressive spiral. But eventually Albert claws his way out of the depression and begins to make new choices that turn his life in different and unexpected ways. He becomes social and amicable with his coworkers, customers on his route, and strangers. Slowly he realizes that the modern world is more accepting than he realized, and that he may be safe to explore parts of himself long hidden away.

This follows Albert's journey as he comes out as gay for the first time, finding acceptance and support from people he never expected. He embarks upon a personal journey to refresh his entire life and track down his beloved from his younger years. Ultimately he creates a community that is close knit and cares for each other in ways they all needed.