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Every Shade of Happy
Heartwarming and uplifting, Every Shade of Happy will make you laugh, cry and want to call your grandfather. Perfect for fans of Marianne Cronin and Hazel Prior. Algernon is at the end of his life.
His granddaughter is at the start of hers.
But they have more in common than they think... Every day of Algernon's 97 years has been broken up into an ordered routine. That's how it's been since the war, and he's not about to change now. Until his 15-year-old granddaughter arrives on his doorstep, turning Algernon's black-and-white life upside down. Everything from Anna's clothes to the way she sits glued to her phone is strange to Algernon, and he's not sure he likes it. But as the weeks pass, Algernon is surprised to discover they have something in common after all – Anna is lonely, just like him. Can Algernon change the habits of a lifetime to bring the colour back into Anna's world? Praise for Every Shade of Happy :
'Heartwarming and uplifting. It will make you miss your grandfather and want to hug your grandchild.' Adele Parks for Platinum
'A slice of reading heaven... Just as wonderful and gorgeous as The One Hundred Years of Lenni and Margot and The Funny Thing about Norman Foreman .' LoveReading
'With relatable characters, this is an uplifting, emotive story.' Candis
His granddaughter is at the start of hers.
But they have more in common than they think... Every day of Algernon's 97 years has been broken up into an ordered routine. That's how it's been since the war, and he's not about to change now. Until his 15-year-old granddaughter arrives on his doorstep, turning Algernon's black-and-white life upside down. Everything from Anna's clothes to the way she sits glued to her phone is strange to Algernon, and he's not sure he likes it. But as the weeks pass, Algernon is surprised to discover they have something in common after all – Anna is lonely, just like him. Can Algernon change the habits of a lifetime to bring the colour back into Anna's world? Praise for Every Shade of Happy :
'Heartwarming and uplifting. It will make you miss your grandfather and want to hug your grandchild.' Adele Parks for Platinum
'A slice of reading heaven... Just as wonderful and gorgeous as The One Hundred Years of Lenni and Margot and The Funny Thing about Norman Foreman .' LoveReading
'With relatable characters, this is an uplifting, emotive story.' Candis
400 pages, Paperback
First published November 18, 2022
17 people are currently reading
287 people want to read
About the author
Phyllida Shrimpton
4 books36 followersPhyllida Shrimpton is a full-time mother of a teenage daughter and currently lives in Essex with her husband, badly behaved, small Jack Russell and a rescue Newfoundland called Nina.
She achieved a Post Graduate Degree in Human Resource Management, but soon jumped ships to work with teenagers, including students with Asperger's syndrome on an Essex based agricultural college farm before eventually moving to live temporarily in the Netherlands.
Her interests are reading, producing fine detailed black and white ink artwork and writing.
She achieved a Post Graduate Degree in Human Resource Management, but soon jumped ships to work with teenagers, including students with Asperger's syndrome on an Essex based agricultural college farm before eventually moving to live temporarily in the Netherlands.
Her interests are reading, producing fine detailed black and white ink artwork and writing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
July 19, 2022
4 stars
This is a gem of a book! In 1929 Algernon Edward Maybury leaves behind the freedom of his beloved home in Cornwall to become a “catholic gentleman“ in the “care“ of The Brothers and their brand of God and education. This experience moulds him in multiple ways. In the present day (2019) and now a widower, his phone rings which it never does…. Anna and her mother Helene have the rug pulled from under the nice life living with Harry and have no choice but to move in with her aged father who is, of course, Algernon. Anna and he don’t know each other, indeed, they have never met. This is their story.
This is a bittersweet, intergenerational story. Algernon is well into his 90s and is understandably set in his ways. Anna is struggling with the move to Essex to live with him and both their emotions and feelings about their current situation are done very well. There is a wonderful growing understanding between Algernon and Anna based on loneliness, being an outsider and a bond develops and they make their way unexpectedly into each other’s hearts.
The characterisation is very good, they’re all likable even cantankerous Algernon (!) and I especially like the growing friendship between Anna and Jacob who lives next door. Jacob is a fantastic young man and sensitive to the needs of others. Anna is a wonderfully colourful and unique individual and is very easy to like as is Helene.
In parts it’s funny, in others it’s lovely, at times I’m laughing and crying at the same time! Anna, Jacob and Algernon go on a road trip to Cornwall this is one of the best parts of the book as real learning about each other takes place amongst the cream teas! Jam first obviously!
This is a lovely heartwarming tale, it’s not saccharine, well it couldn’t be with Algernon! I like the inspiration, the premise and the message.This has been a joy and a pleasure to read. Thank you to the author for the wonderful experience.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Head of Zeus/ Aries for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
This is a gem of a book! In 1929 Algernon Edward Maybury leaves behind the freedom of his beloved home in Cornwall to become a “catholic gentleman“ in the “care“ of The Brothers and their brand of God and education. This experience moulds him in multiple ways. In the present day (2019) and now a widower, his phone rings which it never does…. Anna and her mother Helene have the rug pulled from under the nice life living with Harry and have no choice but to move in with her aged father who is, of course, Algernon. Anna and he don’t know each other, indeed, they have never met. This is their story.
This is a bittersweet, intergenerational story. Algernon is well into his 90s and is understandably set in his ways. Anna is struggling with the move to Essex to live with him and both their emotions and feelings about their current situation are done very well. There is a wonderful growing understanding between Algernon and Anna based on loneliness, being an outsider and a bond develops and they make their way unexpectedly into each other’s hearts.
The characterisation is very good, they’re all likable even cantankerous Algernon (!) and I especially like the growing friendship between Anna and Jacob who lives next door. Jacob is a fantastic young man and sensitive to the needs of others. Anna is a wonderfully colourful and unique individual and is very easy to like as is Helene.
In parts it’s funny, in others it’s lovely, at times I’m laughing and crying at the same time! Anna, Jacob and Algernon go on a road trip to Cornwall this is one of the best parts of the book as real learning about each other takes place amongst the cream teas! Jam first obviously!
This is a lovely heartwarming tale, it’s not saccharine, well it couldn’t be with Algernon! I like the inspiration, the premise and the message.This has been a joy and a pleasure to read. Thank you to the author for the wonderful experience.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Head of Zeus/ Aries for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
August 18, 2022
Heartwarming!
Algernon is ninety-seven years old and set in his ways. He follows a routine that he craves and makes the days go by. Algernon is also very lonely.
Anna is a fifteen-year-old who has recently been uprooted from her home. Her Mother's boyfriend called off their relationship to pursue another. She and her mother, Helene, have nowhere to go.... or do they?
Algernon gets a call one day from his daughter, Helene. They have not spoken in years, and he has never met Anna. He agrees to take them in, and they will forever be changed by it.
Algernon and Anna slowly begin to find that they have more in common than they originally thought.
This was such an enjoyable book about starting over, finding your family, growth, love, and connection. I enjoyed every single character in this book. I also enjoyed reading both Anna's and Algernon's voices. This was such a great touch which provided insight into each's thoughts and experiences.
Beautifully told. If this book isn't on your radar, it needs to be!
#EveryShadeOfHappy #NetGalley
Thank you to Head of Zeus, Aria and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
Algernon is ninety-seven years old and set in his ways. He follows a routine that he craves and makes the days go by. Algernon is also very lonely.
Anna is a fifteen-year-old who has recently been uprooted from her home. Her Mother's boyfriend called off their relationship to pursue another. She and her mother, Helene, have nowhere to go.... or do they?
Algernon gets a call one day from his daughter, Helene. They have not spoken in years, and he has never met Anna. He agrees to take them in, and they will forever be changed by it.
Algernon and Anna slowly begin to find that they have more in common than they originally thought.
This was such an enjoyable book about starting over, finding your family, growth, love, and connection. I enjoyed every single character in this book. I also enjoyed reading both Anna's and Algernon's voices. This was such a great touch which provided insight into each's thoughts and experiences.
Beautifully told. If this book isn't on your radar, it needs to be!
#EveryShadeOfHappy #NetGalley
Thank you to Head of Zeus, Aria and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
August 4, 2022
3.5 stars
Every Shade of Happy is the story of 15-year-old Anna who abruptly learns that she and her single mom must move in with her elderly grandfather, Algernon. Anna and Algernon have never met before, and there is a period of adjustment for all involved. However, as the story progresses, they learn that they have more in common than either of them could have imagined.
Told in dual perspectives, Anna and Algernon show that it is never too late to make a change for the better in your life. Heartfelt and uplifting, it is a solid intergenerational story.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing the advanced copy.
Every Shade of Happy is the story of 15-year-old Anna who abruptly learns that she and her single mom must move in with her elderly grandfather, Algernon. Anna and Algernon have never met before, and there is a period of adjustment for all involved. However, as the story progresses, they learn that they have more in common than either of them could have imagined.
Told in dual perspectives, Anna and Algernon show that it is never too late to make a change for the better in your life. Heartfelt and uplifting, it is a solid intergenerational story.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing the advanced copy.
August 3, 2022
This is a wonderful intergenerational story of a crusty old man (97 year old Algernon), his estranged daughter (Helene) who he has never understood and the bubbly, quirky granddaughter he has never met (15 year old Anna).
When Helene’s partner of six years finds a new love, Helene and Anna find themselves evicted from his comfortable, modern home. Until Helene finds a job, the only option they have is to drive 300 miles across country to move in with Helene’s father in his run down cottage. Not only is Anna ripped away from her home and the only father figure she’s ever had but also from the city she knows, the school she loves and her close group of friends. Arriving at her grandfather’s home, she discovers that he is indeed a very old man of few words, set in his ways, who expects her to sleep in his garden shed. At her new school Anna with its strict, drab grey uniform and unfriendly students, Anna finds herself lonely, heartbroken and bullied with all her usual confidence and love of colour and art is sucked out of her.
What follows is a delightful and touching story as Algernon decides he must help Anna find her way back to her bubbly, unique self and not be thwarted from living a full life as he has been. He decides the best way to do this is a road trip to Cornwall where he grew up and hires the boy next door, a senior student at Anna’s school to drive them there in the summer holidays.
Told by Algernon and Anna in alternating points of view, it was lovely to watch the relationship between Algernon and Helene thawing as they come to understand each other better and to see the strong bond growing between Anna and her grandfather. Jacob, the boy next door who befriends Anna is also a lovely character and also helps her to understand how her grandfather has been shaped by the life he has led. A beautiful tale which is in turn funny and sweet and is sure to touch every reader’s heart.
With many thanks to Head of Zeus via Netgalley for a copy to read
When Helene’s partner of six years finds a new love, Helene and Anna find themselves evicted from his comfortable, modern home. Until Helene finds a job, the only option they have is to drive 300 miles across country to move in with Helene’s father in his run down cottage. Not only is Anna ripped away from her home and the only father figure she’s ever had but also from the city she knows, the school she loves and her close group of friends. Arriving at her grandfather’s home, she discovers that he is indeed a very old man of few words, set in his ways, who expects her to sleep in his garden shed. At her new school Anna with its strict, drab grey uniform and unfriendly students, Anna finds herself lonely, heartbroken and bullied with all her usual confidence and love of colour and art is sucked out of her.
What follows is a delightful and touching story as Algernon decides he must help Anna find her way back to her bubbly, unique self and not be thwarted from living a full life as he has been. He decides the best way to do this is a road trip to Cornwall where he grew up and hires the boy next door, a senior student at Anna’s school to drive them there in the summer holidays.
Told by Algernon and Anna in alternating points of view, it was lovely to watch the relationship between Algernon and Helene thawing as they come to understand each other better and to see the strong bond growing between Anna and her grandfather. Jacob, the boy next door who befriends Anna is also a lovely character and also helps her to understand how her grandfather has been shaped by the life he has led. A beautiful tale which is in turn funny and sweet and is sure to touch every reader’s heart.
With many thanks to Head of Zeus via Netgalley for a copy to read
August 4, 2022
Every Shade of Happy is the first adult novel by award-winning British author, Phyllida Shrimpton. Ninety-seven-year-old Algernon Edward Maybury has been virtually estranged from his daughter Helene for sixteen years, since she fell pregnant, so he’s only ever had a far-off glimpse of the baby that is now his fifteen-year-old granddaughter, Anna. But then he gets a very unexpected call: Helene and Anna need somewhere to live.
Widowed sixteen years, Algernon is very set in his ways, very much comforted by his rigid routine. He still misses Evie terribly, reminded by so many things in their little cottage, a former Essex school house, of their life together and how alone he is now. But eleven years of boarding school taught him how to tuck difficult feelings away and put a lid on them: talking about them is utterly foreign to him.
Trying to reconnect with his daughter seems fraught: “Algernon stayed mute, astonished by his own stupidity. Once again, the right words had come out of his mouth yet the meaning of them had glitched somewhere on the path between his brain and his vocal cords.”
He’s not at all sure how he feels about this child who dresses up in whacky colour combinations, in which she is indulged by her mother, but he imagines the school dress code will likely put a stop to that. Quirky, artistic and vibrant, Anna is unhappy to have to leave her private painted universe behind in her bedroom, to leave her school, her city and all her friends who enjoyed and encouraged her flair with colour.
When they arrive at the cottage, Anna and Helene are shocked to be told that Anna will be sleeping in the garden shed. It turns out to be not so bad as all that: not the bedroom at their former home, but it’s a space she can retreat to. And that turns out to be necessary: at her new school, no one likes her or is interested in her; in fact, they exclude her, laugh at her and seem intent on bullying her, and any colour other than school uniform grey is forbidden.
Behind the old man’s frequently grouchy mood and fearsome eyebrows, Anna sometimes glimpses a granddad she might be able to love, but it’s not until Jacob from No 5 tells her a bit about Mr M. that her interest is truly piqued. Algernon has watched his bright and unusual granddaughter slowly fading, but is surprised that her questions have him sharing his past. They discover that although there may be over eighty years difference on their ages, they have more in common than anyone might expect. Algernon resolves to steer Anna away from the mistakes he made in life.
This touching story is told through alternating narratives from the perspectives of Algernon and Anna, along with flashbacks into Algernon’s past. The author’s note reveals her very personal connection to the protagonists. These are characters that capture the reader’s heart, for all their very human flaws. A story that will draw both laughter and tears, this is a poignant, heartfelt, and uplifting read.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Head of Zeus/Aria.
Widowed sixteen years, Algernon is very set in his ways, very much comforted by his rigid routine. He still misses Evie terribly, reminded by so many things in their little cottage, a former Essex school house, of their life together and how alone he is now. But eleven years of boarding school taught him how to tuck difficult feelings away and put a lid on them: talking about them is utterly foreign to him.
Trying to reconnect with his daughter seems fraught: “Algernon stayed mute, astonished by his own stupidity. Once again, the right words had come out of his mouth yet the meaning of them had glitched somewhere on the path between his brain and his vocal cords.”
He’s not at all sure how he feels about this child who dresses up in whacky colour combinations, in which she is indulged by her mother, but he imagines the school dress code will likely put a stop to that. Quirky, artistic and vibrant, Anna is unhappy to have to leave her private painted universe behind in her bedroom, to leave her school, her city and all her friends who enjoyed and encouraged her flair with colour.
When they arrive at the cottage, Anna and Helene are shocked to be told that Anna will be sleeping in the garden shed. It turns out to be not so bad as all that: not the bedroom at their former home, but it’s a space she can retreat to. And that turns out to be necessary: at her new school, no one likes her or is interested in her; in fact, they exclude her, laugh at her and seem intent on bullying her, and any colour other than school uniform grey is forbidden.
Behind the old man’s frequently grouchy mood and fearsome eyebrows, Anna sometimes glimpses a granddad she might be able to love, but it’s not until Jacob from No 5 tells her a bit about Mr M. that her interest is truly piqued. Algernon has watched his bright and unusual granddaughter slowly fading, but is surprised that her questions have him sharing his past. They discover that although there may be over eighty years difference on their ages, they have more in common than anyone might expect. Algernon resolves to steer Anna away from the mistakes he made in life.
This touching story is told through alternating narratives from the perspectives of Algernon and Anna, along with flashbacks into Algernon’s past. The author’s note reveals her very personal connection to the protagonists. These are characters that capture the reader’s heart, for all their very human flaws. A story that will draw both laughter and tears, this is a poignant, heartfelt, and uplifting read.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Head of Zeus/Aria.
November 21, 2022
Every Shade of Happy is the first adult novel by award-winning British author, Phyllida Shrimpton. The audio version is narrated by Bronwen Price. Ninety-seven-year-old Algernon Edward Maybury has been virtually estranged from his daughter Helene for sixteen years, since she fell pregnant, so he’s only ever had a far-off glimpse of the baby that is now his fifteen-year-old granddaughter, Anna. But then he gets a very unexpected call: Helene and Anna need somewhere to live.
Widowed sixteen years, Algernon is very set in his ways, very much comforted by his rigid routine. He still misses Evie terribly, reminded by so many things in their little cottage, a former Essex school house, of their life together and how alone he is now. But eleven years of boarding school taught him how to tuck difficult feelings away and put a lid on them: talking about them is utterly foreign to him.
Trying to reconnect with his daughter seems fraught: “Algernon stayed mute, astonished by his own stupidity. Once again, the right words had come out of his mouth yet the meaning of them had glitched somewhere on the path between his brain and his vocal cords.”
He’s not at all sure how he feels about this child who dresses up in whacky colour combinations, in which she is indulged by her mother, but he imagines the school dress code will likely put a stop to that. Quirky, artistic and vibrant, Anna is unhappy to have to leave her private painted universe behind in her bedroom, to leave her school, her city and all her friends who enjoyed and encouraged her flair with colour.
When they arrive at the cottage, Anna and Helene are shocked to be told that Anna will be sleeping in the garden shed. It turns out to be not so bad as all that: not the bedroom at their former home, but it’s a space she can retreat to. And that turns out to be necessary: at her new school, no one likes her or is interested in her; in fact, they exclude her, laugh at her and seem intent on bullying her, and any colour other than school uniform grey is forbidden.
Behind the old man’s frequently grouchy mood and fearsome eyebrows, Anna sometimes glimpses a granddad she might be able to love, but it’s not until Jacob from No 5 tells her a bit about Mr M. that her interest is truly piqued. Algernon has watched his bright and unusual granddaughter slowly fading, but is surprised that her questions have him sharing his past. They discover that although there may be over eighty years difference on their ages, they have more in common than anyone might expect. Algernon resolves to steer Anna away from the mistakes he made in life.
This touching story is told through alternating narratives from the perspectives of Algernon and Anna, along with flashbacks into Algernon’s past. The author’s note reveals her very personal connection to the protagonists. These are characters that capture the reader’s heart, for all their very human flaws. A story that will draw both laughter and tears, this is a poignant, heartfelt, and uplifting read.
Widowed sixteen years, Algernon is very set in his ways, very much comforted by his rigid routine. He still misses Evie terribly, reminded by so many things in their little cottage, a former Essex school house, of their life together and how alone he is now. But eleven years of boarding school taught him how to tuck difficult feelings away and put a lid on them: talking about them is utterly foreign to him.
Trying to reconnect with his daughter seems fraught: “Algernon stayed mute, astonished by his own stupidity. Once again, the right words had come out of his mouth yet the meaning of them had glitched somewhere on the path between his brain and his vocal cords.”
He’s not at all sure how he feels about this child who dresses up in whacky colour combinations, in which she is indulged by her mother, but he imagines the school dress code will likely put a stop to that. Quirky, artistic and vibrant, Anna is unhappy to have to leave her private painted universe behind in her bedroom, to leave her school, her city and all her friends who enjoyed and encouraged her flair with colour.
When they arrive at the cottage, Anna and Helene are shocked to be told that Anna will be sleeping in the garden shed. It turns out to be not so bad as all that: not the bedroom at their former home, but it’s a space she can retreat to. And that turns out to be necessary: at her new school, no one likes her or is interested in her; in fact, they exclude her, laugh at her and seem intent on bullying her, and any colour other than school uniform grey is forbidden.
Behind the old man’s frequently grouchy mood and fearsome eyebrows, Anna sometimes glimpses a granddad she might be able to love, but it’s not until Jacob from No 5 tells her a bit about Mr M. that her interest is truly piqued. Algernon has watched his bright and unusual granddaughter slowly fading, but is surprised that her questions have him sharing his past. They discover that although there may be over eighty years difference on their ages, they have more in common than anyone might expect. Algernon resolves to steer Anna away from the mistakes he made in life.
This touching story is told through alternating narratives from the perspectives of Algernon and Anna, along with flashbacks into Algernon’s past. The author’s note reveals her very personal connection to the protagonists. These are characters that capture the reader’s heart, for all their very human flaws. A story that will draw both laughter and tears, this is a poignant, heartfelt, and uplifting read.
August 23, 2022
Okay, I’m going to cut to the chase and say I was Team Algernon from the outset. Yes, he may be a little grumpy, rather lackadaisical about washing his smalls and definitely set in his ways but that’s just his way of coping with the world, particularly since the death of his wife, Evie. He feels she’s with him in spirit though, giving him a nudge when needed or the occasional gentle rebuke just as she did when she was alive. I loved everything about Algernon and, although he may be out of touch with modern technology – he favours a map over an app – perhaps he’s not wrong when he asserts a letter, a telephone call or a face-to-face meeting means more than an email, text or ‘like’ on an Instagram post.
It took me a little longer to warm to Anna’s mother, Helene. Initially, she comes across as someone who lurches from one crisis to another. Even Anna admits her mother is impulsive and clumsy, charging into things without due thought. It’s not Helene’s fault that she and Anna have ended up homeless but her precarious financial situation is the reason they’ve had to resort to living with Algernon. However, I came to admire the way Helene gradually gains control of her life, eventually finding something she’s really good at; as even Algernon is forced to admit.
Anna’s love of colour is about more than just wearing clothes of every hue or creating body art, it’s her form of self-expression. When forced to don a drab school uniform, she feels she’s no longer Anna, just a dull, grey version of herself. It’s one of the things, along with the upheaval of a new home, new school and having to leave her friends behind, that makes her retreat into herself, with only Gary her cactus for company. At this point I must mention one of my other favourite characters in the book – Jacob, the eldest son of Algernon’s neighbours – who literally catapults himself into the story variously performing the role of joker, protector, counsellor, delivery driver, cream tea devourer and much more besides. I also loved Jacob’s quirky sense of humour and his endless patience towards Algernon.
Dismiss any preconceived notion that Every Shade of Happy is the simple story of young Anna melting the heart of her grumpy old granddad because it’s much more nuanced than that. Although Anna and Algernon may appear to be running on parallel lines and that never the twain shall meet, in fact they have more in common than either of them thought. They just need a bit of guidance and encouragement to find out what it is. My first weepy moment was when an additional armchair was ordered – yes, really – and there were plenty of times after that I found myself reaching for the tissues.
There is a real warmth to the story perhaps partly because, as the author reveals in the Acknowledgments, the book is an ‘ode’ to her father whose wartime experiences were similar to Algernon’s, as was his reticence to talk about them.
Every Shade of Happy is a wonderfully affecting story told with warmth and wit.
It took me a little longer to warm to Anna’s mother, Helene. Initially, she comes across as someone who lurches from one crisis to another. Even Anna admits her mother is impulsive and clumsy, charging into things without due thought. It’s not Helene’s fault that she and Anna have ended up homeless but her precarious financial situation is the reason they’ve had to resort to living with Algernon. However, I came to admire the way Helene gradually gains control of her life, eventually finding something she’s really good at; as even Algernon is forced to admit.
Anna’s love of colour is about more than just wearing clothes of every hue or creating body art, it’s her form of self-expression. When forced to don a drab school uniform, she feels she’s no longer Anna, just a dull, grey version of herself. It’s one of the things, along with the upheaval of a new home, new school and having to leave her friends behind, that makes her retreat into herself, with only Gary her cactus for company. At this point I must mention one of my other favourite characters in the book – Jacob, the eldest son of Algernon’s neighbours – who literally catapults himself into the story variously performing the role of joker, protector, counsellor, delivery driver, cream tea devourer and much more besides. I also loved Jacob’s quirky sense of humour and his endless patience towards Algernon.
Dismiss any preconceived notion that Every Shade of Happy is the simple story of young Anna melting the heart of her grumpy old granddad because it’s much more nuanced than that. Although Anna and Algernon may appear to be running on parallel lines and that never the twain shall meet, in fact they have more in common than either of them thought. They just need a bit of guidance and encouragement to find out what it is. My first weepy moment was when an additional armchair was ordered – yes, really – and there were plenty of times after that I found myself reaching for the tissues.
There is a real warmth to the story perhaps partly because, as the author reveals in the Acknowledgments, the book is an ‘ode’ to her father whose wartime experiences were similar to Algernon’s, as was his reticence to talk about them.
Every Shade of Happy is a wonderfully affecting story told with warmth and wit.
September 25, 2022
Did I shed a few tears because estranged familial
relationships CUTS ME DEEP? Yes, yes I did. This
book is the sweetest most perfect book I’ve read this
month, I’ve never missed my grandad as much as
when I was immersed in this book. Algernon reminded
me so much of him in his mannerisms and attitude.
This book makes you laugh, cry, and be eternally
grateful for relationships with elder generations.
Definitely add this to your autumn TBR!
Thank you to Amy at @headofzeus for sending me a
copy of this book.
relationships CUTS ME DEEP? Yes, yes I did. This
book is the sweetest most perfect book I’ve read this
month, I’ve never missed my grandad as much as
when I was immersed in this book. Algernon reminded
me so much of him in his mannerisms and attitude.
This book makes you laugh, cry, and be eternally
grateful for relationships with elder generations.
Definitely add this to your autumn TBR!
Thank you to Amy at @headofzeus for sending me a
copy of this book.
October 22, 2022
Every Shade of Happy is a heartwarming story about finding a way to connect and forgive. And the importance of doing so.
Helene and her daughter Anna need to temporarily move in with her elderly father Algernon. They haven't seen each other since Anna was a baby and have had a hard time finding their way together since the death of her mother Eve. She was the glue that held their family together.
Algernon finds it difficult to express his feelings with his family and as a result he comes across as mean and uncaring. However, he pushes through his struggles and develops a loving bond with his granddaughter and learns how to connect with his daughter.
This was a poignantly beautiful story about family relationships and perseverance.
Thank you, Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Helene and her daughter Anna need to temporarily move in with her elderly father Algernon. They haven't seen each other since Anna was a baby and have had a hard time finding their way together since the death of her mother Eve. She was the glue that held their family together.
Algernon finds it difficult to express his feelings with his family and as a result he comes across as mean and uncaring. However, he pushes through his struggles and develops a loving bond with his granddaughter and learns how to connect with his daughter.
This was a poignantly beautiful story about family relationships and perseverance.
Thank you, Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 1, 2023
When Anna's mum's boyfriend falls for another man, Anna and her mum become homeless and are forced to move in with Anna's Grandad Algernon. Algernon is extremely old, extremely crotchety, and set in his ways. Anna's mum Helene has barely seen her Dad since becoming pregnant with Anna, as he didn't approve of her becoming an unmarried mother. Without Helene's mother, who was the glue who held the family together, Algernon finds himself alienating his daughter and Granddaughter by putting his foot in his mouth too often.
Anna is miserable in her new school, as Algernon was in his strict boarding school, and he suggests a road trip with Anna, and her new friend Jacob - the boy next door - and driver.
This is a brilliantly written and insightful novel, with much of the story coming from the author 's own experiences with her family. Very poignant, and ideal for fans of 'A Man called Ove' I loved this bittersweet story.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6...
Anna is miserable in her new school, as Algernon was in his strict boarding school, and he suggests a road trip with Anna, and her new friend Jacob - the boy next door - and driver.
This is a brilliantly written and insightful novel, with much of the story coming from the author 's own experiences with her family. Very poignant, and ideal for fans of 'A Man called Ove' I loved this bittersweet story.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6...
September 26, 2022
I absolutely fell in love with the premise of Every Shade of Happy and I was super eager to dive into it... It took me about three weeks to read the first 80 pages, oops. The first one hundred pages are SO SLOW, like ridiculously slow! I was feeling pretty frustrated, honestly!
The book turned a corner at the page 100 mark and the story began to properly get going. I loved seeing how Algernon adjusted to having Helene and Anna living with him. Helene and Anna have had to completely change their lives after Helene's relationship ended - they've moved to a completely new area of the country and Anna has to join a new school.
One thing that Shrimpton does really well is to encapsulate Algernon's struggles with growing old and Anna's struggles with growing up. I felt like I really saw inside each characters head and she clearly spent a lot of time accurately researching lots of specific things related to the teenage years and old age. I thought Algernon's character was particularly well written.
At around page 200, our main plot point finally took off and I really loved the last one hundred pages of the book. All of the build up in Anna and Algernon's relationship paid off and it was a really emotional and heart-warming end to the story.
I did really enjoy this book and I loved the messages of it but the pacing was so off at times and Shrimpton's writing could border on cringey at times.
The book turned a corner at the page 100 mark and the story began to properly get going. I loved seeing how Algernon adjusted to having Helene and Anna living with him. Helene and Anna have had to completely change their lives after Helene's relationship ended - they've moved to a completely new area of the country and Anna has to join a new school.
One thing that Shrimpton does really well is to encapsulate Algernon's struggles with growing old and Anna's struggles with growing up. I felt like I really saw inside each characters head and she clearly spent a lot of time accurately researching lots of specific things related to the teenage years and old age. I thought Algernon's character was particularly well written.
At around page 200, our main plot point finally took off and I really loved the last one hundred pages of the book. All of the build up in Anna and Algernon's relationship paid off and it was a really emotional and heart-warming end to the story.
I did really enjoy this book and I loved the messages of it but the pacing was so off at times and Shrimpton's writing could border on cringey at times.
November 26, 2022
I loved this book, and I am thrilled that I chose to read it. Helene has to return to her home after her partner breaks up with her, years after she left as an unwed pregnant young woman. Her daughter Anna struggles to find her way in her new home, especially since she is quirky and unique in every way. Algernon, the cranky, curmudgeonly grandfather, has never found a way to express his feelings. Reminiscences of his difficult childhood help to explain his past, while he adjusts to adding two people to his life. The developing and evolving relationship between Anna and Algernon is beautifully written, as is the whole book. The characters are so appealing, including Jacob, the boy next door who helps Anna adjust. I highly recommend this heartwarming and moving story. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
August 19, 2022
Every Shade of Happy is a beautifully written book with a theme of connecting as family for ninety-seven-year-old Algernon and his fifteen-year-old granddaughter Anna. After circumstances cause Anna to move in with Algernon, they start from the beginning to get to know each other. This intergenerational story is written with heart and has lovely messages to share through its emotionally compelling characters and plot.
Thank you to Net Galley and Head of Zeus, Aria for the advance reader's copy and opportunity to provide my unbiased review.
Thank you to Net Galley and Head of Zeus, Aria for the advance reader's copy and opportunity to provide my unbiased review.
October 23, 2022
This book is so beautifully written that the imigary is almost tangible. It is so comfortable to read that you can lose time in it. On top of this the story is heartwarming and uplifting despite touching on some difficult subject matter. The type of book that you can read anywhere and anytime. One of the reviews says that "it is like getting a hug", I can't say better than that. A book that you will never regret reading.
September 3, 2022
****4.5 stars!****
September 7, 2023
An absolutely beautiful, funny and heart wrenching story, and so cleverly written. It was very moving to read that parts of the story and characters were inspired by real life events.
August 25, 2022
Every Shade of Happy will make you feel every shade of happiness, sadness and every other emotion possible.
It is a sweet and innocent read that highlights both the differences between the generations as well as the abundance of similarities regardless of age or decade.
Algernon and ‘The Child’, Anna, appear to be worlds apart when they first meet. Algernon is old and set in his ways. Anna is young, creative, and a free spirit, so what could these two possibly have in common? Well, as the story unfolds, it all becomes clear. And stranger still, it seems Algernon understands his granddaughter better than her mother.
I like Anna and her spirit, but Algernon stole the show. As the reader, we see the ‘real’ man. Life has hardened him, but we get to know the truth behind his prickly exterior and can’t help but feel warmth for this challenging man.
Unfortunately, there is one aspect I didn’t like at all, Cornish cream tea! This part pained me to read. Lol, It’s cream first, THEN the jam! Lol
Seriously though, there are plenty of cute moments and things that might be simple but add to the lovely story.
My favourites are Gary the Cactus 🌵
Stud the spider 🕷
Anna & Algernon have the same initials (AEW) 🥰
The end is a little predictable, but it’s still a beautiful story that will make your heart smile.
Thank you, Head of Zeus & NetGalley, for the eArc in return for an honest review.
It is a sweet and innocent read that highlights both the differences between the generations as well as the abundance of similarities regardless of age or decade.
Algernon and ‘The Child’, Anna, appear to be worlds apart when they first meet. Algernon is old and set in his ways. Anna is young, creative, and a free spirit, so what could these two possibly have in common? Well, as the story unfolds, it all becomes clear. And stranger still, it seems Algernon understands his granddaughter better than her mother.
I like Anna and her spirit, but Algernon stole the show. As the reader, we see the ‘real’ man. Life has hardened him, but we get to know the truth behind his prickly exterior and can’t help but feel warmth for this challenging man.
Unfortunately, there is one aspect I didn’t like at all, Cornish cream tea! This part pained me to read. Lol, It’s cream first, THEN the jam! Lol
Seriously though, there are plenty of cute moments and things that might be simple but add to the lovely story.
My favourites are Gary the Cactus 🌵
Stud the spider 🕷
Anna & Algernon have the same initials (AEW) 🥰
The end is a little predictable, but it’s still a beautiful story that will make your heart smile.
Thank you, Head of Zeus & NetGalley, for the eArc in return for an honest review.
October 10, 2022
EVERY SHADE OF HAPPY
BY
PHYLLIDA SHRIMPTON
What do you get when you bring together a crotchety old man and a displaced teenager? You get this utterly beautiful and touching story.
Algernon is in his 90’s and lives a lonely existence.
His phone never rings, until one day it does.
When her mother’s boyfriend ups and leaves Anna’s world is pulled from under her.
Her mother, Helene has no other option than to call on her estranged father to put a roof over their heads.
Anna and her grandfather have never met and didn’t even know the other existed.
It’s a period of great upheaval for everyone, but as time passes Algernon and Anna learn more about each other and find that despite the difference in their generations, they actually have more in common than they could ever have imagined.
Told from the voices of Anna and Algernon, this is a charming and engaging read.
Algernon is stuck in his ways, but understandably so. Anna is a colourful girl, who struggles with moving to a new home and school,. However, between them, something quite precious is formed.
So if you like a book that will melt your heart, has some quirky humour and a cactus called Gary, Every Shade Of Happy is most definitely for you.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Out now on audio, hardback and ebook.
Paperback release date 6/7/23
With thanks to Netgalley and Head Of Zeus for digital arc of this title.
August 22, 2022
What I was hoping for: A story about friendship across generations.
What I liked: Due to the two POV, Anna’s and her grandfather Algernon’s, we get a good insight into both their thoughts and feelings. This way, it is very good to realise that both their lives have been upturned and both struggle. I appreciated that it was also discussed how Helene helping Algernon make him feel like he is losing some reason to live and move about.
What I did not like: At times, the book felt rather long and drawn out. It is shown very clearly that Algernon lives mainly in the past but after a while, his remembering the past events – which somehow were all sad and depressing – was too much for me. The switch to Anna’s viewpoint and story helped to get the book moving because I would otherwise not have continued.
Conclusion: After reading the author’s note at the end, I got a much better understanding of the intent of the story and with that information, I was better able to appreciate it. Without it, I actually would have ranked it lower due to the overall depressed tone especially of Algernon’s story and the long-windedness.
Thank you, Head of Zeus, Aria, for the free eARC.
What I liked: Due to the two POV, Anna’s and her grandfather Algernon’s, we get a good insight into both their thoughts and feelings. This way, it is very good to realise that both their lives have been upturned and both struggle. I appreciated that it was also discussed how Helene helping Algernon make him feel like he is losing some reason to live and move about.
What I did not like: At times, the book felt rather long and drawn out. It is shown very clearly that Algernon lives mainly in the past but after a while, his remembering the past events – which somehow were all sad and depressing – was too much for me. The switch to Anna’s viewpoint and story helped to get the book moving because I would otherwise not have continued.
Conclusion: After reading the author’s note at the end, I got a much better understanding of the intent of the story and with that information, I was better able to appreciate it. Without it, I actually would have ranked it lower due to the overall depressed tone especially of Algernon’s story and the long-windedness.
Thank you, Head of Zeus, Aria, for the free eARC.
August 14, 2022
Every Shade of Happy by Phyllida Shrimpton
When Anna's mum's boyfriend falls for another man, Anna and her mum become homeless and are forced to move in with Anna's Grandad Algernon. Algernon is extremely old, extremely crotchety, and set in his ways. Anna's mum Helene has barely seen her Dad since becoming pregnant with Anna, as he didn't approve of her becoming an unmarried mother. Without Helene's mother, who was the glue who held the family together, Algernon finds himself alienating his daughter and Granddaughter by putting his foot in his mouth too often.
Anna is miserable in her new school, as Algernon was in his strict boarding school, and he suggests a road trip with Anna, and her new friend Jacob - the boy next door - and driver.
This is a brilliantly written and insightful novel, with much of the story coming from the author 's own experiences with her family. Very poignant, and ideal for fans of 'A Man called Ove' I loved this bittersweet story.
When Anna's mum's boyfriend falls for another man, Anna and her mum become homeless and are forced to move in with Anna's Grandad Algernon. Algernon is extremely old, extremely crotchety, and set in his ways. Anna's mum Helene has barely seen her Dad since becoming pregnant with Anna, as he didn't approve of her becoming an unmarried mother. Without Helene's mother, who was the glue who held the family together, Algernon finds himself alienating his daughter and Granddaughter by putting his foot in his mouth too often.
Anna is miserable in her new school, as Algernon was in his strict boarding school, and he suggests a road trip with Anna, and her new friend Jacob - the boy next door - and driver.
This is a brilliantly written and insightful novel, with much of the story coming from the author 's own experiences with her family. Very poignant, and ideal for fans of 'A Man called Ove' I loved this bittersweet story.
June 6, 2022
A beautiful intergenerational tale that is heart-breaking and uplifting in equal measure. Phyllida weaves the narrative with care, avoiding sentimentality as the cantankerous, lonely Algernon and his sassy but equally lonely granddaughter, Anna inch towards their own versions of happiness. This is a book to treasure.
February 19, 2023
This was a beautiful story of love, healing, family and connection. When 15 year old Anna comes to live with her mom at her grandad’s home, she has the opportunity to finally get to know him. Phyllis’s Shrimpton’s description of Algernon was so well done. I felt I knew him. Anna was also a well developed character. Highly recommend this book.
August 15, 2022
This is a hug in a book.
The development of the characters and their relationship was very heart warming. I enjoyed the story and it’s development.
A recommendation from me.
Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for gifting me this arc in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
The development of the characters and their relationship was very heart warming. I enjoyed the story and it’s development.
A recommendation from me.
Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for gifting me this arc in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
October 11, 2022
Absolutely beautiful book
November 20, 2022
Loved this book! Not my usual but it was rather lovely.
October 22, 2022
Fifteen-year old Anna Maybury and her single mum Helene must move back to Essex and the home of Helene’s ninety-seven-year old cantankerous father, Algernon. Helene and he had parted on poor terms years earlier after years of miscommunications, with the final straw being when he found out young Helene had become pregnant. Anna is unhappy about leaving her friends and the city, and, needless to say, neither is happy about the move to Essex.
Anna and Helene have a great relationship, and Anna feels comfortable and cheered on by her mother for expressing herself through her colourful clothing and body art. Unfortunately, Algernon seems less than enthusiastic about Anna’s bold sartorial choices, and the kids at Anna’s new school quickly begin bullying her, while a neighbour’s teen son seems the only person her age who doesn’t mock her.
Helene eventually finds a new job at a nature park, and is excited and energized, while Anna begins to be depressed. And though Algernon and his daughter and granddaughter didn’t get off to the best start, he notices Anna’s misery, and is reminded of his own miserable childhood at a boarding school.
Phyllida Shrimpton’s wonderful story about a family coming together gradually, and connecting through the different generations, was bittersweet and funny. Though Algernon can rarely seem to say the right thing verbally, he is a sensitive person, who relied on his loving and deeply missed and deceased wife Evie to manage the family interactions. That he and Anna, and eventually Helene, end up forging new, strong and loving bonds made me happy, while I was impressed with Shrimpton’s deft characterization and dialogue. A lovely book.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Head of Zeus for this ARC in exchange for my reviews.
Anna and Helene have a great relationship, and Anna feels comfortable and cheered on by her mother for expressing herself through her colourful clothing and body art. Unfortunately, Algernon seems less than enthusiastic about Anna’s bold sartorial choices, and the kids at Anna’s new school quickly begin bullying her, while a neighbour’s teen son seems the only person her age who doesn’t mock her.
Helene eventually finds a new job at a nature park, and is excited and energized, while Anna begins to be depressed. And though Algernon and his daughter and granddaughter didn’t get off to the best start, he notices Anna’s misery, and is reminded of his own miserable childhood at a boarding school.
Phyllida Shrimpton’s wonderful story about a family coming together gradually, and connecting through the different generations, was bittersweet and funny. Though Algernon can rarely seem to say the right thing verbally, he is a sensitive person, who relied on his loving and deeply missed and deceased wife Evie to manage the family interactions. That he and Anna, and eventually Helene, end up forging new, strong and loving bonds made me happy, while I was impressed with Shrimpton’s deft characterization and dialogue. A lovely book.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Head of Zeus for this ARC in exchange for my reviews.
September 20, 2024
Já nemůžu hodnotit jinak, než plným počtem hvězd. Tohle pro mě byla dokonalost. Miluji mezigenerační romány. Už jsem jich pár přečetla a pořád mě to nepřestává fascinovat.
Příběh nám vyprávějí devadesátiletý dědeček Algernon a jeho šestnáctiletá vnučka Anna. Kapitoly se střídají a každou z nich nám vyprávějí ze svého pohledu. Maminka Anny dcera Algernona se po rozchodu s partnerem vrací domů. Je to pro ni velmi těžké po smrti maminky se s otcem neviděla už 16 let – dědeček neviděl ani svou vnučku.
Kdyby byla jiná možnost, neváhala by a využila by ji, jen aby se nemusela stěhovat z města na vesničku k nerudnému otci. Přijetí domů bylo vlahé, ale to se dalo očekávat. Postupem času se však příběh vybarví a je v něm tolik emocionálních scén, které jsem hltala. Nedokázala jsem přestat číst.
Úžasné byly flashbacky do minulosti, kdy dědeček vyprávěl své vnučce vše ze své minulosti. Né jednou jsem měla slzy na krajíčku, jak to bylo dojemné. Dokázala jsem se do Algernona vcítit a bylo mi nesmírně líto, že tak dlouho žil sám. V 90 letech byl docela ještě čiperný a své vnučce dokázal poradit i když na to měl svůj vlastní způsob, kterému ze začátku vůbec nikdo nerozuměl.
Krásný příběh do těchto pochmurných dní jak dělaný. Doporučuji.
Příběh nám vyprávějí devadesátiletý dědeček Algernon a jeho šestnáctiletá vnučka Anna. Kapitoly se střídají a každou z nich nám vyprávějí ze svého pohledu. Maminka Anny dcera Algernona se po rozchodu s partnerem vrací domů. Je to pro ni velmi těžké po smrti maminky se s otcem neviděla už 16 let – dědeček neviděl ani svou vnučku.
Kdyby byla jiná možnost, neváhala by a využila by ji, jen aby se nemusela stěhovat z města na vesničku k nerudnému otci. Přijetí domů bylo vlahé, ale to se dalo očekávat. Postupem času se však příběh vybarví a je v něm tolik emocionálních scén, které jsem hltala. Nedokázala jsem přestat číst.
Úžasné byly flashbacky do minulosti, kdy dědeček vyprávěl své vnučce vše ze své minulosti. Né jednou jsem měla slzy na krajíčku, jak to bylo dojemné. Dokázala jsem se do Algernona vcítit a bylo mi nesmírně líto, že tak dlouho žil sám. V 90 letech byl docela ještě čiperný a své vnučce dokázal poradit i když na to měl svůj vlastní způsob, kterému ze začátku vůbec nikdo nerozuměl.
Krásný příběh do těchto pochmurných dní jak dělaný. Doporučuji.
July 28, 2024
Algernonovi je devadesát let a žije sám svůj vcelku spokojený život. Ale jen do té doby, než se k němu přistěhuje jeho dcera Helena s vnučkou Annou. S Helenou se navíc před lety rozhádal a svou vnučku vidí poprvé v životě. Jak dopadne soužití tří generací pod jednou střechou? Najdou společnou řeč?
Toto byl tak milý příběh! Upřímně, knihu jsem si vybrala jen díky krásné obálce, ale samotný příběh uvnitř byl doslova kouzelný.
Díky anotaci vám hned naskočí knihy jako Muž jménem Ove nebo Příběh Arthura Truluva. Ano, jsou si určitě podobné a podobný příběh tu byl vyprávěn již stokrát, ale přesto je tento jiný a krásný a já se od něj nemohla odtrhnout. Okamžitě jsem si zamilovala vnučku Annu. Tím, jaká byla, mi připomínala mou dceru a díky tomu jsem měla k příběhu hned blíž.
Příběh je to milý, úsměvný, smutný i dojemný. Je ze života a spousta radostí i starostí vám tak budou blízké. Čeká vás spousta tajemství z dědečkova života a nebude chybět ani dobrodružný výlet za minulostí.
Je to kniha, která vás rozhodně pohladí po duši. Pokud chcete něco milého, krásného a odpočinkového, rozhodně potřebujete barvy, které vám přinesou štěstí.
Toto byl tak milý příběh! Upřímně, knihu jsem si vybrala jen díky krásné obálce, ale samotný příběh uvnitř byl doslova kouzelný.
Díky anotaci vám hned naskočí knihy jako Muž jménem Ove nebo Příběh Arthura Truluva. Ano, jsou si určitě podobné a podobný příběh tu byl vyprávěn již stokrát, ale přesto je tento jiný a krásný a já se od něj nemohla odtrhnout. Okamžitě jsem si zamilovala vnučku Annu. Tím, jaká byla, mi připomínala mou dceru a díky tomu jsem měla k příběhu hned blíž.
Příběh je to milý, úsměvný, smutný i dojemný. Je ze života a spousta radostí i starostí vám tak budou blízké. Čeká vás spousta tajemství z dědečkova života a nebude chybět ani dobrodružný výlet za minulostí.
Je to kniha, která vás rozhodně pohladí po duši. Pokud chcete něco milého, krásného a odpočinkového, rozhodně potřebujete barvy, které vám přinesou štěstí.
August 12, 2023
I ended this book in tears. I miss my grandad. I miss the grandad I loved. I miss the grandad I never learned to love. I'm terrified of losing my dad. This book broke me in a lot of ways.
August 8, 2022
We follow Anna, 15 years old, a young teenager full of life, who sees her daily life change abruptly from one day to the next when her mother separates from her stepfather. She has to move away from her room, which has become her cocoon, her friends but also her school. With little choice, they move to Essex to live with Anna's grandfather, Algernon, whom she has never met. Algernon is a centenarian old man who, after having experienced painful moments in his youth, has decided to close himself off. Grumpy, he lives to the rhythm of his carriage clock.
On the face of it, everything opposes Anna to her grandfather Algernon: their age, their generation, their education but also their character. But one thing unites them without them knowing it. At the age of 7, Algernon was sent to boarding school by his parents. While he was a happy and adventurous child, he found himself far from his parents, harassed by his new classmates and mistreated by the teachers. Anna, on the other hand, arrives at her new school where the rules are strict: she can no longer wear the bright colours she likes or dye her hair. In this new school everything is dull and grey, like her new uniform. She is also harassed by her classmates because of her differences.
It is in discovering Anna's problems that Algernon opens up to her, sharing memories from his past including those he has tried to bury as deeply as possible. He even decides to take Anna on a trip to Cornwall to follow in his footsteps.
This is a beautiful intergenerational novel that unites a grandfather and his granddaughter. Behind his grumpy side, Algernon actually has a very big heart, which we discover throughout the novel. He had foreseen that the move would be a difficult one for Anna and had made her a little cocoon to make her feel at home. He is not very good at putting his feelings into words, but he does it by gesture. For her part, Anna discovers that her grandfather is not the man her mother introduced her to. It just takes a little digging to find out who he really is. We find out that Algernon has not had an easy life as his dreams have been slowly fading away.
I was very sceptical when I started reading, I had a little trouble getting into it. But then I gradually became attached to the characters and their story. I wanted to find out more about Algernon, why he had become this bitter person. Anna made me smile and they both manage to give the reader hope.
This was a great read and I highly recommend it.
On the face of it, everything opposes Anna to her grandfather Algernon: their age, their generation, their education but also their character. But one thing unites them without them knowing it. At the age of 7, Algernon was sent to boarding school by his parents. While he was a happy and adventurous child, he found himself far from his parents, harassed by his new classmates and mistreated by the teachers. Anna, on the other hand, arrives at her new school where the rules are strict: she can no longer wear the bright colours she likes or dye her hair. In this new school everything is dull and grey, like her new uniform. She is also harassed by her classmates because of her differences.
It is in discovering Anna's problems that Algernon opens up to her, sharing memories from his past including those he has tried to bury as deeply as possible. He even decides to take Anna on a trip to Cornwall to follow in his footsteps.
This is a beautiful intergenerational novel that unites a grandfather and his granddaughter. Behind his grumpy side, Algernon actually has a very big heart, which we discover throughout the novel. He had foreseen that the move would be a difficult one for Anna and had made her a little cocoon to make her feel at home. He is not very good at putting his feelings into words, but he does it by gesture. For her part, Anna discovers that her grandfather is not the man her mother introduced her to. It just takes a little digging to find out who he really is. We find out that Algernon has not had an easy life as his dreams have been slowly fading away.
I was very sceptical when I started reading, I had a little trouble getting into it. But then I gradually became attached to the characters and their story. I wanted to find out more about Algernon, why he had become this bitter person. Anna made me smile and they both manage to give the reader hope.
This was a great read and I highly recommend it.
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