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How to Age Disgracefully
A senior citizens’ center and a daycare collide with hilarious results in the new ensemble comedy from New York Times- bestselling author Clare Pooley
When Lydia takes a job running the Senior Citizens’ Social Club three afternoons a week, she assumes she’ll be spending her time drinking tea and playing gentle games of cards.
The members of the Social Club, however, are not at all what Lydia was expecting. From Art, a failed actor turned kleptomaniac to Daphne, who has been hiding from her dark past for decades to Ruby, a Banksy-style knitter who gets revenge in yarn, these seniors look deceptively benign—but when age makes you invisible, secrets are so much easier to hide.
When the city council threatens to sell the doomed community center building, the members of the Social Club join forces with their tiny friends in the daycare next door—as well as the teenaged father of one of the toddlers and a geriatric dog—to save the building. Together, this group’s unorthodox methods may actually work, as long as the police don’t catch up with them first.
When Lydia takes a job running the Senior Citizens’ Social Club three afternoons a week, she assumes she’ll be spending her time drinking tea and playing gentle games of cards.
The members of the Social Club, however, are not at all what Lydia was expecting. From Art, a failed actor turned kleptomaniac to Daphne, who has been hiding from her dark past for decades to Ruby, a Banksy-style knitter who gets revenge in yarn, these seniors look deceptively benign—but when age makes you invisible, secrets are so much easier to hide.
When the city council threatens to sell the doomed community center building, the members of the Social Club join forces with their tiny friends in the daycare next door—as well as the teenaged father of one of the toddlers and a geriatric dog—to save the building. Together, this group’s unorthodox methods may actually work, as long as the police don’t catch up with them first.
352 pages, Hardcover
First published June 11, 2024
About the author
Clare Pooley
19 books2,433 followersClare Pooley graduated from Newnham College, Cambridge and spent twenty years in the heady world of advertising.
Clare’s memoir - The Sober Diaries - has helped thousands of people around the world to quit drinking.
The Authenticity Project, Clare’s first novel, was a New York Times bestseller, a BBC Radio 2 book club pick, and winner of the RNA debut novel award.
Clare’s second novel - called The People on Platform 5 in the UK, and Iona Iverson’s Rules for Commuting in the USA - was published in 2022.
How to Age Disgracefully is being published in June 2024.
Clare lives in London and Cornwall, with her husband, 3 kids and 2 border terriers. She loves cooking, walking the cliff paths and wild swimming.
Clare’s memoir - The Sober Diaries - has helped thousands of people around the world to quit drinking.
The Authenticity Project, Clare’s first novel, was a New York Times bestseller, a BBC Radio 2 book club pick, and winner of the RNA debut novel award.
Clare’s second novel - called The People on Platform 5 in the UK, and Iona Iverson’s Rules for Commuting in the USA - was published in 2022.
How to Age Disgracefully is being published in June 2024.
Clare lives in London and Cornwall, with her husband, 3 kids and 2 border terriers. She loves cooking, walking the cliff paths and wild swimming.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,904 reviews
July 27, 2024
At the time of writing this (March 2023), I am the only person in the WHOLE WORLD who has read this book, since I’ve only just finished writing it! Not sure how it popped up on GoodReads already! Anyhow, I’m giving it five shiny stars, because if I don’t believe in it, I can’t expect anyone else to. Good luck, my newest story, as you venture your way out into the world…
May 17, 2024
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The Book Review Crew Blog
This is my third book by Clare Pooley and I have loved every one of them. Both The People on Platform 5/Iona Iverson's Rules for Commuting and The Authenticity Project were five-star reads for me and How to Age Disgracefully does not disappoint. Pooley stuck to what she does best...mix in a bunch of strangers and stir the pot to see what happens. Pooley writes engaging stories that have you cheering the characters on. She deftly blends humour and misery and ends up with a story with a cozy mystery vibe...with no mystery, just a bunch of seniors taking the world on by their own rules.
This story was such a fun romp. I adored Daphne even though I didn't like her at first. All the characters were pretty likable and we get many points of view but Daphne is the star. Don't get me wrong, the other characters are wonderfully written but Daphne just seemed to stick out more than the others. The entire time I was reading the book I wondered, can these strangers become friends? Can they be the answer they're all looking for? They were just such an unlikely bunch to become friends and each other's answer to their prayers. Funny, sad, moving and quirky Clare Pooley hits another one out of the park.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
The Book Review Crew Blog
This is my third book by Clare Pooley and I have loved every one of them. Both The People on Platform 5/Iona Iverson's Rules for Commuting and The Authenticity Project were five-star reads for me and How to Age Disgracefully does not disappoint. Pooley stuck to what she does best...mix in a bunch of strangers and stir the pot to see what happens. Pooley writes engaging stories that have you cheering the characters on. She deftly blends humour and misery and ends up with a story with a cozy mystery vibe...with no mystery, just a bunch of seniors taking the world on by their own rules.
This story was such a fun romp. I adored Daphne even though I didn't like her at first. All the characters were pretty likable and we get many points of view but Daphne is the star. Don't get me wrong, the other characters are wonderfully written but Daphne just seemed to stick out more than the others. The entire time I was reading the book I wondered, can these strangers become friends? Can they be the answer they're all looking for? They were just such an unlikely bunch to become friends and each other's answer to their prayers. Funny, sad, moving and quirky Clare Pooley hits another one out of the park.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
June 11, 2024
"She appeared to have jumped out of the frying pan of sexism and into the fire of ageism. The final frontier of isms."
I cannot stress enough how much fun I had reading this book!
From the very first page to the last, the story is compelling and laugh out loud funny. I found myself very attached to the characters, who are so unique and human.
I loved that it is mostly about older people, but without the clichés and the prejudice.
I will probably read it again sometime.
I cannot stress enough how much fun I had reading this book!
From the very first page to the last, the story is compelling and laugh out loud funny. I found myself very attached to the characters, who are so unique and human.
I loved that it is mostly about older people, but without the clichés and the prejudice.
I will probably read it again sometime.
July 12, 2024
4.75⭐️ 70 y/o fmc and 75 y/o mmc with a man called ove vibes 💟
How to age disgracefully 😎
Tip 1: Ghost as many people as possible whose business are none of your business
Tip 2: Keep abreast with technology
Tip 3: Old age isn't a good reason to be unfashionable! Stay overdressed!!
Tip 4: Be as selfish and cynical as possible. THAT IS, BEFORE YOU DO ANYTHING, HAVE A GOOD ANSWER TO- "WHAT IS IN IT FOR ME?"
Tip 5: Be feminist enough to not let ageism or sexism get in the way of your opinions being heard
Tip 6: Invest in pilates/yoga or flexibility/movement training, also weights is good for osteoporosis
Tip 7: Always take advantage of being underestimated
Tip 8: Don't waste time being perfect
Tip 9: When you have to choose between two best or worst options, ask yourself "which of them is the best way to die?"
I was going back on forth between 4 stars and 5 stars and the reason was that I wanted Art and Daphne to have had more romantic moments together and I was just kinda salty about that and second reason was that a story and plot as a whole was very original but some aspects felt familiar to me.
In the end, I thought those aren't good reason not to give this masterpiece the 5 stars it deserves. Because I loved Lydia and Ziggy. I loved all the characters and their weird quirks and friendship dynamics. It felt real. It was almost like the author has once lived this story and now I want to live it too! I have said it before and I will say it again, I love books that make it difficult to forget about them, that's the whole point. 💖💖
***
because i'm literally looking for tips 😎📝
How to age disgracefully 😎
Tip 1: Ghost as many people as possible whose business are none of your business
Tip 2: Keep abreast with technology
Tip 3: Old age isn't a good reason to be unfashionable! Stay overdressed!!
Tip 4: Be as selfish and cynical as possible. THAT IS, BEFORE YOU DO ANYTHING, HAVE A GOOD ANSWER TO- "WHAT IS IN IT FOR ME?"
Tip 5: Be feminist enough to not let ageism or sexism get in the way of your opinions being heard
Tip 6: Invest in pilates/yoga or flexibility/movement training, also weights is good for osteoporosis
Tip 7: Always take advantage of being underestimated
Tip 8: Don't waste time being perfect
Tip 9: When you have to choose between two best or worst options, ask yourself "which of them is the best way to die?"
“You’re still not very nice,” said Art. “Well, you’re still far too nice,” said Daphne. “So between us, we’re perfect.”
“And be careful, Daffy, because when I look at you now, I’d almost think you were capable of love.” “Actually, you’re the one who should be careful,” said Daphne. “Because when I look at you now, I’m starting to think I just might be.”
I was going back on forth between 4 stars and 5 stars and the reason was that I wanted Art and Daphne to have had more romantic moments together and I was just kinda salty about that and second reason was that a story and plot as a whole was very original but some aspects felt familiar to me.
In the end, I thought those aren't good reason not to give this masterpiece the 5 stars it deserves. Because I loved Lydia and Ziggy. I loved all the characters and their weird quirks and friendship dynamics. It felt real. It was almost like the author has once lived this story and now I want to live it too! I have said it before and I will say it again, I love books that make it difficult to forget about them, that's the whole point. 💖💖
***
because i'm literally looking for tips 😎📝
May 5, 2024
Daphne’s 70th birthday prompts her to reflect on her past and the fact that she’s kept a very low profile for many years, venturing out only when necessary. The thing is, Daphne has a very shady past, but could now be the right time to get out there again, act like normal people do? Most importantly would she be safe?
After much thought Daphne decides to join a Senior Citizens Social Club at the local community centre, and while she’s at it, how about a spot of Internet dating?
Let’s just say that Daphne is not the easiest of characters to get along with, but her interactions with others (especially fellow senior citizen Art) makes for some very amusing dialogue. Easy to get along with she is NOT, but she has real hidden depth and this lady definitely steals the show!
The author skilfully presents a diverse cast of characters, from the funny to the malevolent, each bringing their own unique story, and all of them with one thing in common, their determination to stop the local council from closing their community centre. There’s laughs galore, sitting alongside some really emotional moments, so if you’re looking for a fun and entertaining read, then look no further.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Random House UK, Transworld Publishers Bantam for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
After much thought Daphne decides to join a Senior Citizens Social Club at the local community centre, and while she’s at it, how about a spot of Internet dating?
Let’s just say that Daphne is not the easiest of characters to get along with, but her interactions with others (especially fellow senior citizen Art) makes for some very amusing dialogue. Easy to get along with she is NOT, but she has real hidden depth and this lady definitely steals the show!
The author skilfully presents a diverse cast of characters, from the funny to the malevolent, each bringing their own unique story, and all of them with one thing in common, their determination to stop the local council from closing their community centre. There’s laughs galore, sitting alongside some really emotional moments, so if you’re looking for a fun and entertaining read, then look no further.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Random House UK, Transworld Publishers Bantam for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
July 31, 2024
Where's the fun in ageing gracefully?" said Daphne. "Personally, I intend to age as disgracefully as possible."
Clare Pooley knocked it out of the park with this one. Magnificent storytelling, laugh out loud humor, and loveable and memorable characters, not to mention an inspiring and remarkably written found family trope.
First we meet Daphne, our 70 year old FMC, who hardly leaves her house, doesn't have any friends or family, talks to her plants, and stalks her neighbors. On her 70th birthday she decides to re-engage with the world and for that she needs a plan.
💡MAKE SOME FRIENDS
💡BE MORE TRUSTING
💡NO SHOUTING OR GLARING
💡TAKE UP A HOBBY
💡JOIN A CLUB
💡USE THE INTERNET
💡FIND A PARTNER
In an attempt to accomplish her new plan, she joins the Senior Citizens social club where she meets Lydia-a 50 year old woman going through menopause and marital problems who runs the club, and Art-a 75 year old "actor" and petty thief, and Ziggy-a teenage father who keeps finding himself in bad situations. When the community center is threatened to be closed and tore down this unlikely bunch of characters band together to try and save it. This story is both entertaining and inspiring following the wacky situations this group of characters gets into. I had so much fun with it!
"Pah. I prefer my friends to have experience, wisdom, and a few guilty secrets."
Thank you to NetGalley, PENGUIN GROUP Viking, and Clare Pooley for access to this arc in exchange for an honest review.
✨Pre-Read Review✨
I have heard this one is hilarious so fingers crossed this is better than my last read!🤞❤️
June 22, 2024
4.5⭐️
Laugh-out-loud funny and heartwarming, featuring a diverse cast of characters (including a charming dog named Maggie Thatcher), How to Age Disgracefully by Clare Pooley is a delightful read that will touch a chord in your heart.
As she approaches her seventieth birthday, reclusive Daphne decides to make some changes to the way she leads her life. For starters, she decides to be more sociable, which motivates her to join the Senior Citizens Social Club at the local Community Centre. Daphne isn’t the easiest person to be around – secretive and opinionated – she’s off to a bumpy start but gradually makes friends with the other members - Art (and his friend William who often joins the group activities), Ruby and Anna– a diverse group of people, each of whom is dealing with their own difficulties in life, including fifty-three-year-old Lydia, who runs the group. An empty nester whose husband mostly ignores her has,she just started in her new role and wasn’t prepared for the spirited group of seniors whose idea of fun doesn’t quite translate into quiet group activities. When the city council decides to sell the crumbling building that houses the community centre, the club members join forces with the daycare (also housed in the same building) and Ziggy, the teenage father of one of the toddlers to raise funds to save the building – not an easy task, with Daphne struggling to keep her dark past hidden and each of the members dealing with their own life problems.
The narrative is presented from multiple perspectives that allow us to get to know the characters and their backstories. I loved the characters, enjoyed their banter and loved how they grew to care for one another, banding together not only to save their community centre but also to help one another. Daphne is a fascinating character and I enjoyed following her character arc, not to mention her dynamic with Art. Ziggy is an endearing character. I was rooting for him to get his life sorted. Ruby and Anna were wonderful characters. I sympathized with Lydia but also admired her resolve. I really liked how she was able to emerge out of her shell with the help of her new friends! The author approaches several serious themes such as aging, loneliness, infidelity, emotional abuse, teenage parenthood and complicated family dynamics and much more with heart and insight. You might have to suspend disbelief on occasion, but that does not detract from the overall reading experience.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this uplifting story about unlikely friendships, living life on your own terms and new beginnings. I didn’t want the story to end and would love to meet these characters again!
Many thanks to PENGUIN GROUP Viking for the digital review copy via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. This novel was published on June 11, 2024.
Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph
Laugh-out-loud funny and heartwarming, featuring a diverse cast of characters (including a charming dog named Maggie Thatcher), How to Age Disgracefully by Clare Pooley is a delightful read that will touch a chord in your heart.
As she approaches her seventieth birthday, reclusive Daphne decides to make some changes to the way she leads her life. For starters, she decides to be more sociable, which motivates her to join the Senior Citizens Social Club at the local Community Centre. Daphne isn’t the easiest person to be around – secretive and opinionated – she’s off to a bumpy start but gradually makes friends with the other members - Art (and his friend William who often joins the group activities), Ruby and Anna– a diverse group of people, each of whom is dealing with their own difficulties in life, including fifty-three-year-old Lydia, who runs the group. An empty nester whose husband mostly ignores her has,she just started in her new role and wasn’t prepared for the spirited group of seniors whose idea of fun doesn’t quite translate into quiet group activities. When the city council decides to sell the crumbling building that houses the community centre, the club members join forces with the daycare (also housed in the same building) and Ziggy, the teenage father of one of the toddlers to raise funds to save the building – not an easy task, with Daphne struggling to keep her dark past hidden and each of the members dealing with their own life problems.
The narrative is presented from multiple perspectives that allow us to get to know the characters and their backstories. I loved the characters, enjoyed their banter and loved how they grew to care for one another, banding together not only to save their community centre but also to help one another. Daphne is a fascinating character and I enjoyed following her character arc, not to mention her dynamic with Art. Ziggy is an endearing character. I was rooting for him to get his life sorted. Ruby and Anna were wonderful characters. I sympathized with Lydia but also admired her resolve. I really liked how she was able to emerge out of her shell with the help of her new friends! The author approaches several serious themes such as aging, loneliness, infidelity, emotional abuse, teenage parenthood and complicated family dynamics and much more with heart and insight. You might have to suspend disbelief on occasion, but that does not detract from the overall reading experience.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this uplifting story about unlikely friendships, living life on your own terms and new beginnings. I didn’t want the story to end and would love to meet these characters again!
Many thanks to PENGUIN GROUP Viking for the digital review copy via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. This novel was published on June 11, 2024.
Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph
July 13, 2024
I just want to RAVE about this book. The author writes the words of Dylan Thomas "Do not go gentle into that night. Old age should burn and rave at the close of day." This comedy is just so good. Daphne is a well-drawn character who grows and causes the other characters of the book to shine. There is a mystery to the backgrounds of Art and Daphne and an entire cast of elderly people who are so much more than meets the eye. I read this over 2 days and didn't want to put it down.
March 30, 2024
This is my first book by Clare Pooley, and oh my gosh, why didn't anyone tell me about her brilliance before?! Like, seriously, I've been living under a rock not reading her stuff sooner!
Lydia, main protagonist, unwittingly thrust into a world teeming with eccentricity and mischief. Pooley has crafted a cast of characters so vibrant, so alive, that they practically leap off the page. Art, with his penchant for pilfering; Daphne, haunted by secrets buried in the recesses of her past; and Ruby, the Banksy of knitting—each one a masterpiece in their own right. So, when the city council decides to bulldoze their beloved hangout spot, that golden team isn't about to take it lying down!
This book had me laughing so hard. and I'm talking belly laughs that'll have you clutching your sides. But don't get it twisted—there's some serious heart in here too. Like, I'm not ashamed to admit I shed a tear or two (okay, maybe more like a waterfall) at some of the heartfelt moments.
I love how this book is totally fresh and unique! Like, how often do you see a book with a squad of seniors as the main crew? Clare Pooley totally nailed it with this one and I can't wait to read more of her works!
Lydia, main protagonist, unwittingly thrust into a world teeming with eccentricity and mischief. Pooley has crafted a cast of characters so vibrant, so alive, that they practically leap off the page. Art, with his penchant for pilfering; Daphne, haunted by secrets buried in the recesses of her past; and Ruby, the Banksy of knitting—each one a masterpiece in their own right. So, when the city council decides to bulldoze their beloved hangout spot, that golden team isn't about to take it lying down!
This book had me laughing so hard. and I'm talking belly laughs that'll have you clutching your sides. But don't get it twisted—there's some serious heart in here too. Like, I'm not ashamed to admit I shed a tear or two (okay, maybe more like a waterfall) at some of the heartfelt moments.
I love how this book is totally fresh and unique! Like, how often do you see a book with a squad of seniors as the main crew? Clare Pooley totally nailed it with this one and I can't wait to read more of her works!
August 31, 2024
“Do not go gentle into that good night, Old age should burn and rave at close of day.” – Dylan Thomas
As readers, our first introduction to this motley crew of senior citizens (for the most part) is when they are being commandeered by an officer of the law. Everyone has an opportunity to release their reasons for the officer to want to take them in. What kind of past are they hiding from, that all these guilty voices would be rising in this calamitous moment?
“How could you create a future when you had no past you would admit to?”
As it turns out, they all have come to the local senior center to find companionship. Told in multiple P.O.V.’s everyone has their own story and reason for wanting to find others. If nothing else, other than to overcome their own sense of loneliness as they recognize their advanced age and uncertain purpose at this stage of their lives. And, some come with a spectacular attitude.
“Where’s the fun in aging gracefully? Personally, I intend to age as disgracefully as possible.” (Hence: the title of the book!)
But as we connect with their inner lives, we watch how things change for them as they connect with each other. And, our curiosity as readers, especially with that introductory prologue, makes us wonder, who were they really before they were the people they are now?
They are on a mission to save their senior center. And, these gallant six geriatric individuals, along with a young man, an infant and child with his own issues…including a sweet dog named Margaret Thatcher, (or versions of that name) make their own splash into the hearts of readers.
Still, in some ways, it was difficult to fully engage with the plot. The characters weren’t always likable, or even always liking each other (in the beginning) and it took some time to connect with them. But eventually there were moments, out-loud-laugh moments, that made it easier to appreciate and understand them.
This may be a book that readers will just want to sit back, take it in, relax with it, and watch the trouble the characters seem to make. And not take yourself to seriously while enjoying the reading experience.
3.5 stars rounded up.
As readers, our first introduction to this motley crew of senior citizens (for the most part) is when they are being commandeered by an officer of the law. Everyone has an opportunity to release their reasons for the officer to want to take them in. What kind of past are they hiding from, that all these guilty voices would be rising in this calamitous moment?
“How could you create a future when you had no past you would admit to?”
As it turns out, they all have come to the local senior center to find companionship. Told in multiple P.O.V.’s everyone has their own story and reason for wanting to find others. If nothing else, other than to overcome their own sense of loneliness as they recognize their advanced age and uncertain purpose at this stage of their lives. And, some come with a spectacular attitude.
“Where’s the fun in aging gracefully? Personally, I intend to age as disgracefully as possible.” (Hence: the title of the book!)
But as we connect with their inner lives, we watch how things change for them as they connect with each other. And, our curiosity as readers, especially with that introductory prologue, makes us wonder, who were they really before they were the people they are now?
They are on a mission to save their senior center. And, these gallant six geriatric individuals, along with a young man, an infant and child with his own issues…including a sweet dog named Margaret Thatcher, (or versions of that name) make their own splash into the hearts of readers.
Still, in some ways, it was difficult to fully engage with the plot. The characters weren’t always likable, or even always liking each other (in the beginning) and it took some time to connect with them. But eventually there were moments, out-loud-laugh moments, that made it easier to appreciate and understand them.
This may be a book that readers will just want to sit back, take it in, relax with it, and watch the trouble the characters seem to make. And not take yourself to seriously while enjoying the reading experience.
3.5 stars rounded up.
June 13, 2024
3.5 stars, rounded up - Although it dragged at times, I did enjoy this look a a rag-tag group of seniors, Gen Z's & Alphas and a doggo all working together to save their community center. Very quirky & heart-warming, maybe a tad trite, but still what I expected (and I loved Maggie T. the dog!)
July 28, 2024
She appeared to have jumped out of the frying pan of sexism and into the fire of ageism. The final frontier of isms.
Better than I expected. An entertaining story sprinkled with humor and observations about aging. While the focus was on irascible, secretive, 70 year-old, alpha Daphne, the story was also about Lydia, Art, and Ziggy (a teenage father). The narrative was from all four points of view.
They, along with two other seniors, Ruby and Anna, (and good dog, Margaret Thatcher), come together at the Mandel[a] Community Center where they build unlikely friendships through unlikely schemes—all done without the help of jigsaw puzzles or macrame plant holders. I was never bored, but I wish some of their end games wrapped up with a little more oomph. I could see this becoming a movie.
Better than I expected. An entertaining story sprinkled with humor and observations about aging. While the focus was on irascible, secretive, 70 year-old, alpha Daphne, the story was also about Lydia, Art, and Ziggy (a teenage father). The narrative was from all four points of view.
They, along with two other seniors, Ruby and Anna, (and good dog, Margaret Thatcher), come together at the Mandel[a] Community Center where they build unlikely friendships through unlikely schemes—all done without the help of jigsaw puzzles or macrame plant holders. I was never bored, but I wish some of their end games wrapped up with a little more oomph. I could see this becoming a movie.
April 13, 2024
Star Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Read my full review on my blog! Thank you NetGalley for offering an advance read of this novel!
Join the escapades of Daphne, Art, Ziggy, and Lydia as they band together to save their beloved community center from closure. With Lydia at the helm and a motley crew of characters by her side, expect laughter, mischief, and a hefty dose of British charm. From Daphne's fearless quest for friendship and to re-enter society to Art's knack for playing dead (on screen, that is), this quirky tale promises a journey through the highs and lows of aging disgracefully. Get ready for a read that'll have you chuckling from start to finish!
Read my full review on my blog! Thank you NetGalley for offering an advance read of this novel!
Join the escapades of Daphne, Art, Ziggy, and Lydia as they band together to save their beloved community center from closure. With Lydia at the helm and a motley crew of characters by her side, expect laughter, mischief, and a hefty dose of British charm. From Daphne's fearless quest for friendship and to re-enter society to Art's knack for playing dead (on screen, that is), this quirky tale promises a journey through the highs and lows of aging disgracefully. Get ready for a read that'll have you chuckling from start to finish!
August 13, 2024
5/5 ⭐️ This is my second book by this author and I loved it just as much as Iona Iverson's Rules for Commuting! It just made me so happy. It was heartwarming and full of humor! The characters were all flawed which made them feel real and relatable. This entire book felt like a warm hug and it left me with a big smile on my face! I also liked how they all came together to try and save the community center! And how they were all there to help each other with their personal problems 🥺💖.
May 28, 2024
Maybe the author was just trying to cash in on the current craze for "old people" novels, but this worked for me. I loved the multi-generational cast, unlikely friendships, and wacky situations. Anyone looking for a hilarious, upbeat novel to cleanse the palate after a downer book - this is the one. It's sheer fun from beginning to end!
Thanks to NetGalley and Pamela Dorman Books for the ARC.
Thanks to NetGalley and Pamela Dorman Books for the ARC.
April 14, 2024
Loved every bit of this... miss these people already. Excited to add the hardcover to my collection when it releases:) Will be passing this onto my sister at some point. 👍🏼 👌
I think Daphne and Elizabeth from Thursday murder club would get along famously, in my humble opinion.
Someone make this into a movie 🎬 pretty please!
This was just a fun book with people who grow on you quickly. I wanted hug everyone and get into mischief with them 😄 🤣.
A certain masterpiece of "yarnsy" in the book had me cackling... I could see that being filmed and ending up in a Charlotte dobre video as well.
This'll give you some laughs and some tears, so enjoy the ride:).
Bit over top at times, but no complaints from this girl. It just made everything more fun.
The way Daphne took care of some "obstacles" for people... 👏 👏 Bravo!
I want to adopt her as a grandparent and have her on my team if a zombie 🧟♂️ apocalypse happened.
I think Daphne and Elizabeth from Thursday murder club would get along famously, in my humble opinion.
Someone make this into a movie 🎬 pretty please!
This was just a fun book with people who grow on you quickly. I wanted hug everyone and get into mischief with them 😄 🤣.
A certain masterpiece of "yarnsy" in the book had me cackling... I could see that being filmed and ending up in a Charlotte dobre video as well.
This'll give you some laughs and some tears, so enjoy the ride:).
Bit over top at times, but no complaints from this girl. It just made everything more fun.
The way Daphne took care of some "obstacles" for people... 👏 👏 Bravo!
I want to adopt her as a grandparent and have her on my team if a zombie 🧟♂️ apocalypse happened.
July 15, 2024
This was fun, highly recommend the audiobook
May 15, 2024
If you’re looking for a read that simply makes you say . . . .
Clare Pooley might just be the gal for you. All of her books sort of follow the same thing – a ragtag bunch of folks finding unlikely friendship and a common cause. The cause this time around is saving the local community center from demolition. The ragtag friend group starts with some senior citizens and the woman who has been hired to run a social club for them. A high schooler, his baby, the kids from the nursery school and a dog eventually get added to the mix to bring on the saccharine sweet feels.
The story here jumps off with the community center van being pulled over by the cops who are looking for one suspect in particular. Nearly every occupant begins confessing to why they are the one the police are looking for – while the actual suspect is making a break for it. Then it does a rewind to introduce you to all of the characters, their backstories and eventually ends back at the beginning.
If you’re a fan of the Thursday Murder Club folks (particularly Elizabeth) and want to have some more fun with geriatrics, but without a body count, this one might work for you.
3.5 Stars and rounding up because it’s nice to smile sometimes : )
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Clare Pooley might just be the gal for you. All of her books sort of follow the same thing – a ragtag bunch of folks finding unlikely friendship and a common cause. The cause this time around is saving the local community center from demolition. The ragtag friend group starts with some senior citizens and the woman who has been hired to run a social club for them. A high schooler, his baby, the kids from the nursery school and a dog eventually get added to the mix to bring on the saccharine sweet feels.
The story here jumps off with the community center van being pulled over by the cops who are looking for one suspect in particular. Nearly every occupant begins confessing to why they are the one the police are looking for – while the actual suspect is making a break for it. Then it does a rewind to introduce you to all of the characters, their backstories and eventually ends back at the beginning.
If you’re a fan of the Thursday Murder Club folks (particularly Elizabeth) and want to have some more fun with geriatrics, but without a body count, this one might work for you.
3.5 Stars and rounding up because it’s nice to smile sometimes : )
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
April 5, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
Not sure if anything will compare to Iona Iverson but I loved this chaotic bunch of characters. Everyone was perfectly casted and I fell in love with Daphne. What a hoot. There was enough depth to humanize everyone but my favorite was the classic Clare Pooley chaos and quick witty writing. I laughed I cried and it was an absolute delight.
Not sure if anything will compare to Iona Iverson but I loved this chaotic bunch of characters. Everyone was perfectly casted and I fell in love with Daphne. What a hoot. There was enough depth to humanize everyone but my favorite was the classic Clare Pooley chaos and quick witty writing. I laughed I cried and it was an absolute delight.
July 15, 2024
Take a handful of disgruntled seniors and add an inexperienced activities director - and there is bound to be mayhem and anarchy, especially if the author of the story is the ingenious Clare Pooley!
The first few chapters are devoted to introducing the cast of characters in this story who will eventually band together to stop the demolition of their decrepit community center.
I didn't know what to make of Daphne at first, but in the end I was in her corner all the way. Nothing really phazed her - she invariably had "a plan" and, like the secret super-heroine she obviously was, she came to the rescue of the doomed local community center and breathed life back in to that rag-tag group of retirees.
There are quite a few mysteries to solve and "stings" to perform, and justice (of a sort) prevails in the end - but no spoilers here!
Great story-telling and I bet you will come to love Daphne as much as I did. What a bag of tricks she turned out to be!
I highly recommend this lighthearted, well written comedic drama. The quirky characters are unforgettable: another winner for Clare Pooley! I'm rating this one a 5 out of 5 because I was always wanting to return to this story despite the many demands on my time these days.. My thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
The first few chapters are devoted to introducing the cast of characters in this story who will eventually band together to stop the demolition of their decrepit community center.
I didn't know what to make of Daphne at first, but in the end I was in her corner all the way. Nothing really phazed her - she invariably had "a plan" and, like the secret super-heroine she obviously was, she came to the rescue of the doomed local community center and breathed life back in to that rag-tag group of retirees.
There are quite a few mysteries to solve and "stings" to perform, and justice (of a sort) prevails in the end - but no spoilers here!
Great story-telling and I bet you will come to love Daphne as much as I did. What a bag of tricks she turned out to be!
I highly recommend this lighthearted, well written comedic drama. The quirky characters are unforgettable: another winner for Clare Pooley! I'm rating this one a 5 out of 5 because I was always wanting to return to this story despite the many demands on my time these days.. My thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
June 21, 2024
I enjoy Clare Pooley books - they are such feel-good, heartwarming stories and this one is no exception.
How to Age Disgracefully is a story about lonely seniors who meet when they sign up for a local senior citizens club. The club meets in a community center that is slated for closure to make way for luxury apartments. The seniors band together to save the building.
The story is told from the point of view of three of these seniors. Each character has their own story and distinct personalities and quirks. They are a joy to read about and to see how they come to become found family and find their happiness again while refusing to age gracefully or as society expects. Throw in a cheating husband, a dynamic, sharp-tongued woman with a past, a young teen father and his eight month baby, and a lovable dog called Maggie Thatcher, and you have a delightful read! I really enjoy novels that focus on older characters.
If you want a fun, quick read that will make you feel good and warm your heart, then make sure to pick this (and any Clare Pooley) book up!
Thanks to @bantambooksuk @randomhouse @transworldbooks for this complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
How to Age Disgracefully is a story about lonely seniors who meet when they sign up for a local senior citizens club. The club meets in a community center that is slated for closure to make way for luxury apartments. The seniors band together to save the building.
The story is told from the point of view of three of these seniors. Each character has their own story and distinct personalities and quirks. They are a joy to read about and to see how they come to become found family and find their happiness again while refusing to age gracefully or as society expects. Throw in a cheating husband, a dynamic, sharp-tongued woman with a past, a young teen father and his eight month baby, and a lovable dog called Maggie Thatcher, and you have a delightful read! I really enjoy novels that focus on older characters.
If you want a fun, quick read that will make you feel good and warm your heart, then make sure to pick this (and any Clare Pooley) book up!
Thanks to @bantambooksuk @randomhouse @transworldbooks for this complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
June 10, 2024
This is one of those books I selected when I was bored and trolling NetGalley. It is not at all what I usually read, but isn't that why we troll NetGalley sometimes? It is for me anyway. Soooo, since I am not into the current crop of Contemporary Romance, much too much angst, I thought I would try a book more suited to a seventysomething than a twentysomething. Turns out that "How to Age Disgracefully" with its biting British humor and very real life issues make this tale a departure from the norm.
Told from the points of view of several different characters: Daphne, a 70-year-old with secrets and no friends; Art, an actor, but at seventy-five, his agent has stopped taking his calls; Lydia whose job is the head of the Senior Citizen's Social Club at the Mandel Community Center; Ziggy, a teen father whose 8-month-old daughter attends day care at the center.
It was great getting to know each of these characters. They each have a story and each desperately needed help solving a problem. This is diverse group, and they all get to know each other and help each other. They all have to pull together in order to do that and to save the Mandel Community Center after an accident threatens to close it down. The lengths they will go to and the campaign they wage is worthy of the military, but so much more fun.
My thanks to the Publisher and Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
Told from the points of view of several different characters: Daphne, a 70-year-old with secrets and no friends; Art, an actor, but at seventy-five, his agent has stopped taking his calls; Lydia whose job is the head of the Senior Citizen's Social Club at the Mandel Community Center; Ziggy, a teen father whose 8-month-old daughter attends day care at the center.
It was great getting to know each of these characters. They each have a story and each desperately needed help solving a problem. This is diverse group, and they all get to know each other and help each other. They all have to pull together in order to do that and to save the Mandel Community Center after an accident threatens to close it down. The lengths they will go to and the campaign they wage is worthy of the military, but so much more fun.
My thanks to the Publisher and Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
August 3, 2024
This book sticks a knitting needle in our preconceived notions of the elderly.
A minibus carrying senior citizens and children gets pulled over. Each adult passenger is convinced that their hidden past has finally caught up with them. In the chaos of mass confession, the true “person of interest” slips away.
The story then rolls back to 3 months earlier, revealing their sordid secrets as the story progresses.
This was my first Clare Pooley novel, and I wish I’d read “Iona Iverson’s Rules for Commuting” first. Iona is briefly mentioned in this book. It’s a clever nod to those who have read that previous book. For me, I felt like “darn it, now I can’t go into that book blind.” I’m still likely to read it, as I enjoy Pooley’s writing, but I definitely suggest reading Iona Iverson first.
A minibus carrying senior citizens and children gets pulled over. Each adult passenger is convinced that their hidden past has finally caught up with them. In the chaos of mass confession, the true “person of interest” slips away.
The story then rolls back to 3 months earlier, revealing their sordid secrets as the story progresses.
This was my first Clare Pooley novel, and I wish I’d read “Iona Iverson’s Rules for Commuting” first. Iona is briefly mentioned in this book. It’s a clever nod to those who have read that previous book. For me, I felt like “darn it, now I can’t go into that book blind.” I’m still likely to read it, as I enjoy Pooley’s writing, but I definitely suggest reading Iona Iverson first.
July 2, 2024
My rating: 4.75/5
Another Clare Pooley winner! In her traditional warm, witty, and British style, Clare brings us a fabulous mix of characters of all ages and personality types.
I knew I liked it when it first started but wasn’t immediately hooked. After a few chapters I settled into the story and became a big fan. I laughed, had “warm fuzzies”, and enjoyed getting to know everyone. The story was very bingeable.
Those that loved Iona Iverson’s Rules For Commuting will be a fan of this one, too.
Another Clare Pooley winner! In her traditional warm, witty, and British style, Clare brings us a fabulous mix of characters of all ages and personality types.
I knew I liked it when it first started but wasn’t immediately hooked. After a few chapters I settled into the story and became a big fan. I laughed, had “warm fuzzies”, and enjoyed getting to know everyone. The story was very bingeable.
Those that loved Iona Iverson’s Rules For Commuting will be a fan of this one, too.
July 4, 2024
A classic theme for Clare Pooley — charming characters, both young and old, navigating ageism and the search for belonging. I enjoyed every minute and appreciated the concept that everyone has a crime to declare. 4.5 stars rounded up.
September 1, 2024
Such a gem. This story is a heart string puller with lovable, quirky, unconventional characters that include the orphaned furbaby Maggie. Young and old work together to save their community center while becoming the best of friends in the process. Is funny as ever, loved this! ❥ 5 stars — Pub. 6/11/24
June 5, 2024
This was really such a heartwarming, enjoyable, and fun read. It's about Lydia, who takes a job at a senior community center. Then there is a chance the center could be closed down, so the seniors are on a mission to save their beloved community center. They also gain help from the daycare center next door, including the toddlers. You'll have multiple POV’s. I loved these funny, quirky characters and their antics. You see how seniors might be old in years, but they're still young at heart. I just love that! A nice, light and entertaining read.
Out June 11.
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Out June 11.
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
June 8, 2024
Oh!! A friend lent me this book and said she thought I would enjoy it!! I gobbled it up like sweet homemade ice cream!!
What a fun day!! Thank you so much! I needed the smiles and laughs!!
What a fun day!! Thank you so much! I needed the smiles and laughs!!
May 24, 2024
This was an entertaining and a truly hilarious story. I don’t usually laugh out loud while reading but this one was able to make me laugh every few pages. I loved the members of the social club. Each character was very different and brought a different type of humor to the story but they had issues they were dealing with outside of the club that was interesting to watch play out. This story went in directions I wasn’t expecting when it came to the situations the characters were dealing with on their own. It also touched on the power of friendship and learning to get out of your own way to allow others to help you. Also it touched on being able to open up to people and allow yourself to trust new people in your life. This book was such a delight and I was surprised at how much I enjoyed it. I would highly recommend!
I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review
I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review
July 8, 2024
What a phenomenal cast of characters!!!!
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