This week Penny A Parrish reviews Clare Pooley’s heartwarming novel “How to Age Disgracefully.”
HOW TO AGE DISGRACEFULLY
by Clare Pooley
Published by Pamela Dorman Books (June 11, 2024)
Hardcover $26.10
Audiobook $15.75
Reviewed by Penny A Parrish
Those of us of a “certain age” are often overlooked by writers. So credit goes to Clare Pooley for creating books that highlight older people, and intersperse them with children, those in middle- age crisis, and a dog named “Maggie Thatcher.”
The main character in this book is Daphne, a mysterious older woman, who is almost a recluse and has a bitter tongue. When she decides it’s time to get out in the world, she sets up a white board with lists of what to do and how to engage with others. A strategy that would not work for most people, but suits her well.
She pushes herself to join the Senior Citizen’s Social Club, meeting at the local community center which also houses a daycare, a karate club, and AA members. The club is run by Lydia, whose self-esteem would fit in a thimble. At the first meeting of the club, we also meet Art who is a compulsive shoplifter, William who is a friend of Art, Ruby who knits unusual creations and Pauline, who in the first hour manages to die and leave “Maggie Thatcher” homeless. This small group of misfits bands together when the Community Center faces demolition.
Pooley’s writing is spot-on with humor and the realities of aging. When Daphne decides to buy a cell phone, she and the young store clerk have this conversation:
(Daphne) ‘Look, why is it that whenever people see someone my age, they assume that they’re totally useless with technology?’ she said. ‘It’s terrible stereotyping, not to mention rude and patronizing.’
‘So you know how it works?’ said the boy.
‘No,’ said Daphne.
Last year I reviewed Iona Iverson’s Rules for Commuting. Like her new book, that novel brought together people of various ages centered around an elderly woman. Pooley has the formula down pat. It’s a sweet one, showing how different generations can learn from each other, support each other, and enjoy each other. A delightful summer read.
Penny A Parrish is a long-time book reviewer and artist. Learn more about her by visiting her page at Brush Strokes Gallery, which is in downtown Fredericksburg.
