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The Guncle cover art

The Guncle

By: Steven Rowley
Narrated by: Steven Rowley
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Publisher's Summary

From the author of Lily and the Octopus comes a moving and deeply funny novel about a once-famous sitcom star who is left to care for his niece and nephew after an unexpected family tragedy.

Patrick, or Gay Uncle Patrick (GUP for short), has always loved his niece, Maisie, and nephew, Grant. That is, he loves spending time with them…in small doses, with their parents there to handle the tears and tricky questions. So when tragedy strikes and Patrick finds himself suddenly taking on the role of primary guardian, he is, honestly, overwhelmed.

Patrick has no idea what to expect, having spent years barely holding on after the loss of his great love, a stalled acting career, and a lifestyle not-so-suited to young children. But when he realises that parenting isn’t solved with treats and jokes, Patrick’s eyes are opened to a new sense of responsibility and the realisation that, sometimes, being vulnerable is the only way to heal from grief.

Tender, charming and laugh-out-loud funny, The Guncle is a testament to finding happiness and peace in the most trying of times.

‘Steven Rowley’s The Guncle is a gift. At once funny, charming and heartbreaking, it’s that rare novel that will have you laughing out loud, even through tears. I have yet to meet a person who did not love this book.’ Sally Hepworth, bestselling author of The Good Sister and The Younger Wife

‘A joyous Auntie Mame spritz! A reading pleasure; pour yourself a tall glass and enjoy, preferably poolside. You deserve it!’ Andrew Sean Greer, winner of the 2018 Pulitzer Prize for Less

©2021 Ten Wry Wolves, Inc. (P)2022 Simon & Schuster Audio

What listeners say about The Guncle

Average Customer Ratings
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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

Charming!

I loved this story! I was so charmed by all of the characters. The characters were endearing, and I loved the way it all played out. I could see this becoming a movie. I laughed and cried.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

love it. everyone needs a guncle while there's

sad topics Guncle saves the day. I wish there was a sequel love it

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

A beautiful funny page turner

This has got to be one of the best books I have not only ever read but also ever listened to. I cannot recommend highly enough to anyone - a must listen:/ read

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Superb storytelling

A beautiful book full of heart and meaning. I was expecting a light comedy and instead was gifted a rich, humorous tale of discovery and realisation. The slow unveiling of the various stages of grief of GUP and the children was wonderful and uplifting. Their interactions as they came to rely on each other is at the heart of this story. Each affected and changed the other as they learned to navigate their new reality.
The biggest accolade goes to the narrator and author Steven Rowley. His easy narration made the listener feel as though the story was his, and therefore real. A masterful performance.
This will affect with me for a long time I think. Very much 5-stars.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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Absolutely fabulous

I loved this story,engaging in a laugh out loud kind of way.
Funny,endearing,sad and very close to home.I’m definitely going to listen to this one again.Highly recommend 😃

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Delightful!

I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this book. Such a charming story exploring grief and growth. The characters were sweet and endearing. A heartwarming and emotional journey that will make you laugh and cry.

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

Gunkle knows best

An engaging story. Just lovely. Funny even though sad. Loved it and was sad to gave it end.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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Beautiful story

I loved this from start to finish the story and the narration and Grants lisp made it for me. Lots of moments that made me giggle and I will definitely give it another lusten

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    5 out of 5 stars
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Brilliant

What an absolutely beautiful story. Funny, well developed characters and perfect narration. Couldn’t put it down. Highly recommended.

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2 people found this helpful

  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    3 out of 5 stars
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Great story, truly profound moments

Loved the storyline, but felt that the performance was a little take it or leave it. Sometimes it was difficult to understand that a different character was talking as the narrator didn’t change his voices very much. I did like Grant’s lisp though. That was cute.

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