A review by withbdp
How to Age Disgracefully by Clare Pooley

adventurous emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted fast-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? It's complicated

5.0

I'd like to thank NetGalley and Penguin Group/Viking Press for an ARC of Claire Pooley's How to Age Disgracefully.

This was my first Pooley read, and it was the perfect palette cleanser after coming off of a binge of historical fiction and thrillers.

When Lydia starts a job as coordinator of a senior citizen club at the local community center she gets a little more than she anticipated in the most glorious of ways. When this community of sorts, is threatened by the closure of the community center the group must act to save it.

This story is one which focuses on found family and has multiple viewpoints. The characters were beautifully imperfect, vibrant and lovable. I found myself rooting for them time and time again. I can always appreciate well developed characters and the author does a great job giving them a backstory and having them grow throughout the story. Take the ride.

Though, I would classify this primarily as a comedy, the author seamlessly incorporates sprinkles of mystery, romance, and lighthearted suspense that helps drive this narrative forward. The story was profound, fun and I found myself immersed in it, not wanting to end.