I was looking for a fun, funny book to read on our holiday.

I found a book by the winner of the Thurber Prize for American humor

The Gungle.

(written by Steven Rowley)

A wonderful ride on the emotional roller-coaster,

that losing someone you love is.

A 40-something man is still tying to navigate the lose of his partner, when his best friend, (who married his brother) dies. His brother asks him to take the two motherless children under his wing while he enters rehab. As sad and awful as this all sounds, we smile and laugh along with the Guncle as he helps his niece and nephew navigate their grief.

There are side characters that pop in and out, adding complexity to the story without overwhelming the reader. Just as we are ready to dislike (or like) a character, Mr. Rowley gives them a shake and we see them in a completely different light. Mr. Rowley has wonderfully captured the voices of all his characters. The children, the aunt and father, the grandmother, even the dog. The reveals are wonderfully spaced and beautifully paced. (There is even a “Tom Holland” character who pops in and out. At least, if I was casting the movie that who I would chose)

Mr. Rowley shows that no matter how hard life kicks us in the shins, we must go on. It is up to us, to learn the lessons. It is up to us, to decide if we will move forward or not. It is up to us, to live life.

The two children are reunited with their father (this is not a spoiler, it is pretty clear from the beginning) and everyone must figure out what their next steps will be. Hence, the sequel:

The Guncle Abroad.

I have this story waiting for me at home (I didn’t pack it, silly me.)