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The Rest of Our Lives

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The Rest of Our Lives

By: Benjamin Markovits
Narrated by: Eric Meyers
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About this listen

SHORTLISTED FOR THE BOOKER PRIZE 2025

'Moving, smart and life-affirming.' OBSERVER
'Why aren't all novels like this?' THE CRITIC
'A triumphant twist on the great American road novel.' GUARDIAN
'So funny, wise and knowing.' CLARE CHAMBERS

What's left when your kids grow up and leave home?

When Tom Layward's wife had an affair he resolved to leave her as soon as his youngest daughter turned eighteen. Twelve years later, while taking her to Pittsburgh to start university, he remembers his pact, and keeps driving West.

An unforgettable road trip novel, The Rest of Our Lives beautifully explores the nuance and complications of a long term marriage.

An Observer 'Novel to look out for in 2025' and an FT 'Best Summer Read'

©2025 Benjamin Markovits (P)2025 Faber & Faber Genre Fiction Literary Fiction Marriage Funny
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Haven't seen many good reviews for this but I kinda liked it, think if Bill Bryson left his wife! Was interesting to see how he thought, the running away aspect I associate more with women's stories (what one I don't actually know!) and I liked the USA road trip element. Was a very quick read & I'd be surprised if it made the booker short list, was also surprising to see how many other books he's written.

Interesting take on the mid life crisis road trip

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