How Not to Die Alone
Ratings14
Average rating3.9
15
Ratings14
Average rating3.9
"For years [Andrew's] worked a thankless public health job, searching for the next of kin of those who die alone. Luckily, he goes home to a loving family every night. At least, that's what his coworkers believe ... A misunderstanding has left Andrew trapped in his own white lie and his lonely apartment. When new employee Peggy breezes into the office like a breath of fresh air, she makes Andrew feel truly alive for the first time in decades"--Dust jacket flap.
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This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader as part of a quick takes post to catch up–emphasizing pithiness, not thoroughness.
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The concept for this novel feels like something that'd happen to George Costanza, but what makes this novel work is that Roper makes Andrew a believable, sympathetic human being—not the dumpster fire of a person that George was. It's utterly preposterous, really. But you can't help but believe it happening (and can likely see yourself doing something similar).
I've seen repeated—almost ubiquitous—comparisons to Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine. And I get that, and can kind of agree with it. I found the character and story in this novel better than Ms. Oliphant or her life. Although that book seems much more plausible. (and I quickly decided not to care).
Andrew's friendship with Peggy is wonderful, I wish we had more time with them working/hanging out. Peggy's a great character on her own—and if Roper were to write one of those ridiculous “same story just from someone else's POV” sequels, I'd have to cast aside my prejudice against those so I could spend more time with her.
Vance gives one of those audiobook narrations that convinces you there's no other way for the book to sound—if you read the text version, the voice in your head would have to be Vance. And if you'd never heard of him before, that's okay, because your subconscious would invent a voice just like his.
Moving, amusing, hopeful. Great job.
