Something to Live For
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By Richard Roper
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6 reviews
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All Andrew wants is to be normal. He has the perfect wife and 2.4 children waiting at home for him after a long day.
At least, that’s what he’s told people. The truth is, his life isn’t exactly as people think and his little white lie is about to catch up with him. Because in all Andrew’s efforts to fit in, he’s forgotten one important thing: how to really live. And maybe, it’s about time for him to start.
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An intri tale. Slow at the start, but one gets pulled in. A shocking, surprise is revealed. A satusfying ending - not quite resolved.
A thoughtful and compassionate book which i found uplifting and inspiring.Andrew is a beautifully drawn character whose strengths and vulnerabilities feel very familiar. It's a quick and compelling read which i would recommend highly to anyone wanting a little life affirmation in a non cheesy way
I really enjoyed this book, finishing it in one sitting. It was heartwarming, funny, and thought provoking. I’m sure there are lonely people like Andrew in the world, and it was lovely that it might all come good in the end.
Well worth reading.
Andrew is 42 and he works for the council, dealing with death for a living (ie sorting out the problems that arise when somebody dies without a friend or relative in the world). As for Andrew himself, he is the archetypal “Mr Perfect”, with a loving wife, two children and a pleasant house in suburbia. Or so his work colleagues believe. The reality is slightly different – he is a loner, living in a grotty flat with only his model trains for company. Initially by accident, he created a life and a persona for himself which took on a life of its own but gradually become more and more complicated to maintain. When his work life threatens to intrude into his personal space things start to go horribly wrong.
This a very funny book indeed and I really enjoyed reading it. Andrew is a wonderful individual who has a vulnerable side to his character which made me really want everything to turn out well for him. The book is heart-warming, witty, clever, unique and very readable.
There is not really anything at all that I would change about this book. I just didn’t want it to finish.
Would I recommend it? Absolutely. I will definitely be looking out for future books by this author. Well done Richard.
An accomplished work. Finely observed and humour in dark places. Would highly recommend. Loved it!
I simply LOVED this book! I was concerned that the unusual and dark subject matter would be depressing and grim, but I need not have worried. Written with warmth and affection, it moved me to tears in places, but also made laugh out loud. Yes, you kind of know how (or hope) it is going to end, but this certainly didn't spoil my enjoyment of the book. An uplifting read.
