4.05
Part of "Gladdy Gold" series
"Getting Old is Criminal" by Rita Lakin is a witty and engaging mystery novel that explores the experiences of a group of older women living in a retirement community. The story follows protagonist June Madrid, a former Hollywood star, who becomes embroiled in a series of crimes that occur in the retirement community. Lakin's writing is sharp and humorous, with a keen eye for the details of life in a retirement community. She skillfully balances the lighter moments of the story with more serious themes, including ageism, sexism, and the challenges of growing older. The characters in the novel are well-developed and relatable, with distinct personalities and backgrounds that add depth and complexity to the story. June Madrid is a particularly compelling protagonist, with a rich history in Hollywood and a strong sense of justice that drives her to solve the mysteries that arise in the community. One of the strengths of "Getting Old is Criminal" is its exploration of the experiences of older women. Lakin challenges stereotypes and assumptions about aging, highlighting the strengths, wisdom, and resilience of her characters. The novel is a celebration of the power of friendship and community, as the women come together to support each other and solve the crimes that threaten their peaceful retirement. Overall, "Getting Old is Criminal" is a delightful and engaging mystery novel that offers a fresh and nuanced perspective on aging and community. Lakin's writing is witty and insightful, and her characters are complex and relatable. The novel is a must-read for fans of mystery and crime fiction, as well as anyone looking for a thoughtful and entertaining exploration of the experiences of older women...
Rachel Joyce
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry
In 'The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry', Harold, a recently retired man, embarks on an impulsive journey across England to deliver a letter to an old friend, Queenie Hennessy, who is dying of cancer. Along the way, Harold reflects on his life, his marriage, and his regrets, meeting various people who help him rediscover the beauty of life and human connection. This book is a wonderful choice for fans of 'Getting Old is Criminal' as it delves into the themes of aging, self-discovery, and the importance of human connection.
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A Man Called Ove
In 'A Man Called Ove', a curmudgeonly and eccentric 59-year-old man named Ove becomes an unlikely friend and mentor to his new neighbors. As Ove's past is revealed, readers learn about the tragedies and triumphs that shaped him into the man he is today. This book is an excellent choice for fans of 'Getting Old is Criminal' as it explores the complexities of aging, the importance of human connection, and the power of resilience in the face of adversity.
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The Sellout
In 'The Sellout', a satirical novel by Paul Beatty, a young black man named Bonbon attempts to reinstate segregation and slavery in his fictional Los Angeles neighborhood, Dickens. Through his absurd and provocative actions, Bonbon challenges the notion of racial identity and the legacy of slavery in America. This book is a great choice for readers of 'Getting Old is Criminal' who enjoy sharp, witty social commentary and a unique perspective on the complexities of race and identity.
Learn MoreGabrielle Zevin
The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry
In 'The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry', a charming and whimsical novel by Gabrielle Zevin, a widowed bookstore owner named A.J. Fikry discovers new purpose in life when a mysterious baby is left in his bookstore. As A.J. navigates the challenges of raising a child and running a bookstore, he forms deep connections with the people in his community, ultimately learning that life's greatest joys come from the relationships we form with others. This book is a wonderful choice for fans of 'Getting Old is Criminal' who enjoy heartwarming stories about the power of human connection and the transformative power of literature.
Learn MoreGraeme Simsion
The Rosie Project
In 'The Rosie Project', a socially awkward genetics professor named Don Tillman embarks on a quest to find the perfect wife using a rigorous set of scientific criteria. Along the way, he meets Rosie, a wild and unpredictable woman who challenges Don's narrow view of the world and helps him discover the beauty of spontaneity and human connection. This book is a great choice for readers of 'Getting Old is Criminal' who enjoy lighthearted, humorous stories about the complexities of human relationships and the power of love to transform our lives.
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The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
In 'The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time', a 15-year-old boy named Christopher Boone with autism sets out to solve the mystery of who killed his neighbor's dog. Along the way, Christopher discovers new truths about himself, his family, and the world around him. This book is a great choice for readers of 'Getting Old is Criminal' who enjoy stories about the complexities of human relationships, the power of resilience, and the importance of understanding and accepting others.
Learn MoreM.L. Stedman
The Light Between Oceans
In 'The Light Between Oceans', a lighthouse keeper and his wife living off the coast of Western Australia make a fateful decision that will haunt them for the rest of their lives. This haunting and beautifully written novel explores the complexities of human relationships, the power of love and forgiveness, and the consequences of the choices we make. This book is a great choice for readers of 'Getting Old is Criminal' who enjoy thought-provoking stories about the human condition and the power of redemption.
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The Language of Flowers
In 'The Language of Flowers', a young woman named Victoria Jones, who has spent her entire life in the foster care system, discovers the healing power of flowers and the beauty of human connection. As Victoria learns to navigate the world on her own, she forms deep relationships with the people around her, ultimately discovering that love and forgiveness are the keys to healing and redemption. This book is a wonderful choice for fans of 'Getting Old is Criminal' who enjoy heartwarming stories about the power of human connection, the transformative power of nature, and the resilience of the human spirit.
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