How to Age Disgracefully by Clare Pooley

A Riotous Romp Through the Golden Years

Growing old is inevitable, but growing up? That’s optional. At least, that’s the philosophy embraced by the delightfully mischievous characters in Clare Pooley’s latest novel, “How to Age Disgracefully.” As someone firmly in the middle-aged camp myself, I found this book to be a breath of fresh air – a reminder that life doesn’t end at retirement, it just gets more… interesting.

The Plot: Seniors Behaving Badly (In the Best Way)

When Lydia takes on what she assumes will be a quiet job running the Senior Citizens’ Social Club, she has no idea what she’s in for. Instead of genteel card games and polite chitchat, she finds herself herding a group of septuagenarian troublemakers who make the average teenager look well-behaved.

There’s Art, a failed actor with sticky fingers; Daphne, a mysterious woman with a dark past; Ruby, who’s turned knitting into an art form of revenge; and a cast of other colorful characters who prove that age is just a number—and sometimes, that number spells trouble.

When the community center that houses their club faces demolition, this ragtag group of seniors joins forces with the toddlers from the neighboring daycare, a teenage father, and a geriatric dog to save their beloved building. What follows is a hilarious and heartwarming adventure that involves everything from yarn-bombing to impromptu heists.

Characters You’ll Want to Adopt (or Hide From)

Pooley has a knack for creating characters that leap off the page, and “How to Age Disgracefully” is no exception. Each member of the social club is uniquely drawn, with quirks and flaws that make them feel wonderfully real.

Lydia, our long-suffering protagonist, is particularly relatable. As she navigates her empty nest and a crumbling marriage, her journey of self-discovery is both poignant and inspiring. And don’t even get me started on Daphne—let’s just say she gives new meaning to the phrase “senior discount.”

Themes: It’s Never Too Late to Start Living

At its heart, “How to Age Disgracefully” is about second chances and the power of community. Pooley deftly explores the fears and insecurities that come with aging, but she does so with a light touch and plenty of humor. The book reminds us that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself, make new friends, or cause a little mayhem.

The intergenerational friendships that develop between the seniors and the daycare children are particularly touching. There’s something magical about watching the oldest and youngest members of society find common ground—usually in mischief.

Style and Pacing: A Laugh a Minute

Pooley’s writing style is effortlessly engaging, with a wit that keeps you chuckling from page one. The pacing is spot-on, with just the right balance of character development and plot-driven action. I found myself staying up way past my bedtime (which, let’s face it, gets earlier every year) because I simply couldn’t put the book down.

The author has a talent for crafting scenes that are simultaneously hilarious and touching. One moment you’re laughing out loud at Art’s latest shoplifting attempt, and the next you’re getting misty-eyed over a tender exchange between Lydia and her daughter. It’s this emotional rollercoaster that keeps you invested in the story and the characters’ fates.

Comparisons and Context

Fans of Pooley’s previous works, “The Authenticity Project” and “Iona Iverson’s Rules for Commuting,” will find familiar themes of connection and self-discovery in “How to Age Disgracefully.” However, this latest offering feels more ambitious in scope, tackling bigger issues with an even larger cast of characters.

The book sits comfortably in the company of other heartwarming, humorous novels about later-life adventures, such as “The Thursday Murder Club” by Richard Osman or “The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry” by Rachel Joyce. However, Pooley’s unique voice and the sheer exuberance of her characters set this book apart.

Minor Quibbles (Because Nobody’s Perfect)

If I had to nitpick (and as a reviewer, it’s kind of my job), I’d say that occasionally the large cast of characters can be a bit overwhelming. There were moments when I had to flip back a few pages to remind myself who was who. But honestly, that’s a small price to pay for such a rich, vibrant world.

Also, fair warning: this book may inspire you to take up knitting as a form of protest art. I’m not saying that’s a bad thing, but your family might start to worry when you begin eyeing lampposts with a gleam in your eye and a ball of yarn in your hand.

Final Verdict: A Must-Read for Anyone Who Plans on Getting Older

“How to Age Disgracefully” is a joyous celebration of life’s third act. It’s a reminder that growing older doesn’t mean growing boring, and that sometimes the best adventures happen when you least expect them.

Pooley has crafted a novel that’s not just funny and entertaining, but also surprisingly insightful about the challenges and opportunities that come with aging. It’s the kind of book that makes you look forward to your golden years—or if you’re already there, makes you want to go out and stir up some trouble.

Who Should Read This Book?

• Anyone over 50 who’s tired of being invisible
• Middle-aged readers who need a laugh (and don’t we all?)
• Young people who think life ends at 30 (spoiler alert: it doesn’t)
• Book clubs looking for their next great discussion (and a few belly laughs)
• Anyone who’s ever felt like they don’t quite fit in (so… everyone?)

In Conclusion: Age Is Just a Number (And Sometimes, That Number Spells Trouble)

“How to Age Disgracefully” is more than just a funny book about seniors behaving badly (although it is definitely that). It’s a warm, wise, and witty exploration of friendship, community, and the art of living life to the fullest—no matter how many candles are on your birthday cake.

As I closed the last page, I found myself looking at the older people in my life with new eyes. Who knows what secrets they’re hiding, what adventures they’re planning? Maybe that sweet old lady next door is actually planning a jewel heist. Maybe my grandpa’s weekly “bridge club” is actually a front for a underground poker ring. The possibilities are endless, and delightfully so.

A Personal Note

Reading this book was like getting a pep talk from your coolest, slightly tipsy aunt. You know, the one who always has the best stories at family gatherings and isn’t afraid to speak her mind. It left me feeling inspired, entertained, and maybe a little bit mischievous.

So here’s my advice: grab a copy of “How to Age Disgracefully,” pour yourself a glass of wine (or a cup of tea, if that’s more your speed), and settle in for a rollicking good time. Just don’t blame me if you find yourself googling “how to start a senior citizens’ flash mob” afterwards. Remember, age is just a number – it’s what you do with it that counts.

Clare Pooley has done it again, crafting a novel that’s as heartwarming as it is hilarious. “How to Age Disgracefully” is a triumph, a book that will make you laugh, cry, and maybe even rethink your retirement plans. Just remember: what happens at the Senior Citizens’ Social Club, stays at the Senior Citizens’ Social Club. Unless, of course, it ends up on the evening news.

Similar Books for Your TBR Pile

If you loved “How to Age Disgracefully” and are hungry for more hilarious, heartwarming tales of unconventional seniors, check out these recommendations:

1. “The Thursday Murder Club” by Richard Osman – A group of retirement village residents solve crimes with wit and tenacity.
2. “The Secret Diary of Hendrik Groen, 83¼ Years Old” by Hendrik Groen – A funny and touching look at life in a care home.
3. “The Little Old Lady Who Broke All the Rules” by Catharina Ingelman-Sundberg – Pensioners turn to a life of crime in this charming Swedish comedy.
4. “The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry” by Rachel Joyce – A retiree walks the length of England in this moving tale of redemption and self-discovery.
5. “A Man Called Ove” by Fredrik Backman – A grumpy widower’s life is turned upside down by his boisterous new neighbors.