Told through alternating timelines of then and now, we follow the captivating life story of Hubert Bird.
Like his best friend Gus, Hubert immigrated from Jamaica for a better life in England. He wasn't prepared for the weather, the food, and the people—it wasn't always easy being a Black immigrant. But when he meets the love of his life, it all becomes worth it. As an interracial couple, Joyce and Hubert face many challenges but with their abundant love, they raise two children and have a home of their own.
After losing Joyce, Hubert is alone in his golden years. So in his weekly phone calls to his daughter, Rose, he embellishes his life—his stories are so elaborate that he has to keep notes. But when Rose surprises him with the news that she's finally coming to visit, Hubert is left scrambling to make real friends, and fast!
With the help of his neighbour, Ashleigh, a single mother from Wales, Hubert manages to pull off the impossible and make lots of friends. But with the origin of his earlier isolation always lurking, will he ever get to live the life he's pretended to have for so long?
All the Lonely People is utterly charming, and full of heart. With compounding emotions of love and loss, it is also a comment on race and relationships.
Hubert's life with Joyce was central to his being and his grief is isolating. And although the loneliness he experiences diminishes his character, his heart stays open just enough to make connections and find purpose again.
Gayle is an incredibly engaging writer and in spite of his main character being abrasive at times, there is a gentleness about the story. All of his characterizations are strong—his cast is as diverse as they are endearing. They are a true testament that ordinary people can make an extraordinary difference.
All the Lonely People celebrates a life well lived. Highly recommend!
MIKE GAYLE has written for a variety of publications including the Sunday Times, the Guardian, and Cosmo. He is the author of thirteen novels, which have been translated into more than thirty languages.
Gayle resides in Birmingham with his wife, two kids, and a rabbit.
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