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The Way We Thunk
The Way We Thunk is the much-anticipated follow-up to the 2018 bestseller Meeting Mungo Thunk — a novel that's attracted many thousands of loyal fans and five-star reviews. Now, Mungo Thunk is back, and he's quirkier than ever...
They say that pessimists are rarely disappointed, and that’s a view Jake Mason wholeheartedly embraces. Therefore, it comes as no great surprise when misfortune visits him three times in just a few months, leaving Jake at his lowest-ever ebb.
As his pessimism takes hold, Jake concludes that he’s failed miserably at life. He then finds himself alone on a railway bridge late one evening and, for a moment, considers an unthinkable solution to his problems. He’s still weighing up the pros and cons of that solution when a random stranger happens to pass by.
That stranger introduces himself as Mungo Thunk, and, noting Jake’s solemn mood, the odd little man suggests he might be able to help, being he’s an expert on fixing broken minds.
From that moment onwards, Jake becomes a reluctant passenger on a journey that won’t just change his thinking but his entire life.
Only time will tell if it’s for the better or, the worse.
“A feast of gasps, laughs and much peculiarity.” — Jodie O'Neil
"I REALLY need to spend a week with Mungo Thunk." — Richard Clarke
"A tale that's as moreish as it is unpredictable. Superb!" — Kate Meadows
They say that pessimists are rarely disappointed, and that’s a view Jake Mason wholeheartedly embraces. Therefore, it comes as no great surprise when misfortune visits him three times in just a few months, leaving Jake at his lowest-ever ebb.
As his pessimism takes hold, Jake concludes that he’s failed miserably at life. He then finds himself alone on a railway bridge late one evening and, for a moment, considers an unthinkable solution to his problems. He’s still weighing up the pros and cons of that solution when a random stranger happens to pass by.
That stranger introduces himself as Mungo Thunk, and, noting Jake’s solemn mood, the odd little man suggests he might be able to help, being he’s an expert on fixing broken minds.
From that moment onwards, Jake becomes a reluctant passenger on a journey that won’t just change his thinking but his entire life.
Only time will tell if it’s for the better or, the worse.
“A feast of gasps, laughs and much peculiarity.” — Jodie O'Neil
"I REALLY need to spend a week with Mungo Thunk." — Richard Clarke
"A tale that's as moreish as it is unpredictable. Superb!" — Kate Meadows
433 pages, Paperback
First published February 22, 2023
76 people are currently reading
52 people want to read
About the author
Keith A. Pearson
21 books436 followersI rarely visit Goodreads, on account it's a terrifying place for authors who aren't blessed with a thick skin.
If you'd like to know more about me, head over to my website, or you can follow me on Facebook or Twitter.
If you'd like to know more about me, head over to my website, or you can follow me on Facebook or Twitter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
February 14, 2024
Should I judge a book by how much I want to pick it up and how quickly I reach the end? As good a way as any I suppose.
In which case, this was another winner from Mr Pearson. I could say that a lot of the first 60% annoyed me as the main character is … well, annoying. I could whinge about Mungo appearing as more an extra than a leading character. But…
I did enjoy it. But….
I’ve enjoyed Mr Pearsons other tales more.
In which case, this was another winner from Mr Pearson. I could say that a lot of the first 60% annoyed me as the main character is … well, annoying. I could whinge about Mungo appearing as more an extra than a leading character. But…
I did enjoy it. But….
I’ve enjoyed Mr Pearsons other tales more.
March 2, 2023
Keith smashed it again! wish there were more than 5 stars to give
Sorry for the delay in rating, I finished this in 48 hours as per all Keith’s books and insomniac rules but Amazon kept saying error occurred when I tried to review. Anyways was so engrossed in this book and Keith’s humour and Mungo did not disappoint, I loved the whole family feeling this time, as a mum you start to appreciate what your children are listening to, and Mungo worked his magic yet again, only negative I have is I now have to wait for the next masterpiece from Keith, it’s a 10 /5 for me 🥰🥰
Sorry for the delay in rating, I finished this in 48 hours as per all Keith’s books and insomniac rules but Amazon kept saying error occurred when I tried to review. Anyways was so engrossed in this book and Keith’s humour and Mungo did not disappoint, I loved the whole family feeling this time, as a mum you start to appreciate what your children are listening to, and Mungo worked his magic yet again, only negative I have is I now have to wait for the next masterpiece from Keith, it’s a 10 /5 for me 🥰🥰
May 2, 2023
much needed
Dose of positivity… Keith Pearson - you rockstar! I picked this up randomly, not knowing what to expect, I was pleasantly surprised even Jake Mason was annoying the hell out of me, glad I persevered - patience pays paraphrasing Mungo Thunk
Dose of positivity… Keith Pearson - you rockstar! I picked this up randomly, not knowing what to expect, I was pleasantly surprised even Jake Mason was annoying the hell out of me, glad I persevered - patience pays paraphrasing Mungo Thunk
May 13, 2023
addicted to Mungo Thunk
I love this character and the themes that are featured can be a life lesson for all of us! Thank you Keith A Pearson!
I love this character and the themes that are featured can be a life lesson for all of us! Thank you Keith A Pearson!
July 3, 2023
Glorious to get reacquainted with Mungo Thunk
It’s an easy platitude to trot out but, in this instance it is wholeheartedly meant when I say that this, my latest read of Keith’s is from start to finish an engrossing, exciting and thought provoking adventure. I am continuously envious of Keith’s story telling capabilities and having read virtually all of his titles thus far, with a couple of gaps that I will be rectifying as soon as possible, and am always left with an immense sense of satisfaction on completion. Well, satisfaction and disappointment that the story is over!
In this case, it’s wonderful to meet again the curious character of Mungo Thunk. If you’ve not read his first adventure ‘Meeting Mungo Thunk’, worry not, this story is very much self contained and you need no prior knowledge of the character. I would be willing to bet however that you go on to read the previous adventure when done if you haven’t done so.
I always look forward impatiently to a new title from Keith so now find myself waiting with baited breath for the next one. Hopefully to arrive in time to read whilst on holiday later this year.
It’s an easy platitude to trot out but, in this instance it is wholeheartedly meant when I say that this, my latest read of Keith’s is from start to finish an engrossing, exciting and thought provoking adventure. I am continuously envious of Keith’s story telling capabilities and having read virtually all of his titles thus far, with a couple of gaps that I will be rectifying as soon as possible, and am always left with an immense sense of satisfaction on completion. Well, satisfaction and disappointment that the story is over!
In this case, it’s wonderful to meet again the curious character of Mungo Thunk. If you’ve not read his first adventure ‘Meeting Mungo Thunk’, worry not, this story is very much self contained and you need no prior knowledge of the character. I would be willing to bet however that you go on to read the previous adventure when done if you haven’t done so.
I always look forward impatiently to a new title from Keith so now find myself waiting with baited breath for the next one. Hopefully to arrive in time to read whilst on holiday later this year.
March 26, 2023
I didn’t enjoy this one as much as the last however I still couldn’t put it down once I’d started it.
It is modern in that it has graphic sex and swearing in it, despite the fact that the plot would have worked without it. Not my thing but I appreciate other people must like it
I’m not sure why I find these books unputdownable. My best guess is the pacing of information given, not too many characters, some twists in an interesting plot and a sort of moral to the story
I recommended the last one to my young daughter as I think the mental side of Mungo is extraordinary (which she found inspiring) but, whilst this still has a similarity thoughtful theme the story is much more ‘adult’ than I want, to make a family favourite
Still 5 stars but definitely an 18+ book
It is modern in that it has graphic sex and swearing in it, despite the fact that the plot would have worked without it. Not my thing but I appreciate other people must like it
I’m not sure why I find these books unputdownable. My best guess is the pacing of information given, not too many characters, some twists in an interesting plot and a sort of moral to the story
I recommended the last one to my young daughter as I think the mental side of Mungo is extraordinary (which she found inspiring) but, whilst this still has a similarity thoughtful theme the story is much more ‘adult’ than I want, to make a family favourite
Still 5 stars but definitely an 18+ book
March 30, 2023
I'm still giving it 5 stars, even though the first book ("Meeting Mungo Thunk," you can read them separately though) was better - not enough to take a full star, haha! I didn't like how, even though Chloe seemingly too responsibility for her mistakes, for half the book Jake's behavior was made to be the sole reason for their slump im marriage and family life. I do agree that his negativity and inability to remain empathetic stumped the progress, but I don't think Chloe really made an effort to understand his stance. Apart from that, old pal Mungo is just as fresh as ever!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 7, 2023
Just superb.
Have just finished reading "The way we Thunk", I won't go into detail as I don't want to ruin it for those who have not read it, but not only is it outstanding but its also been a massive help. It's like Mungo had me read it at exactly the right moment for it to have the impact it has.
"I've changed my thinking for the better" is a quote that will hopefully stay with me for many years to come.
Thank you so much, Keith, I will strive from now on not to be such a pessimist!
Thank you.
Chris.
Have just finished reading "The way we Thunk", I won't go into detail as I don't want to ruin it for those who have not read it, but not only is it outstanding but its also been a massive help. It's like Mungo had me read it at exactly the right moment for it to have the impact it has.
"I've changed my thinking for the better" is a quote that will hopefully stay with me for many years to come.
Thank you so much, Keith, I will strive from now on not to be such a pessimist!
Thank you.
Chris.
June 4, 2024
I simply love everything Keith A. Pearson has written. I only wish he could write faster so there'd be more to read. The Mungo Thunk books are hard to describe. Mungo seems to have a profound knowledge. He has a human-like body (almost) but he speaks about humans as though he isn't one. He has powers to read minds, put people to sleep and paralyze them. He also seems able to disappear. He enters Jake's dismal life at it's low point. Jake is obsessed by the infidelity of his wife, Chloe. His mood is totally negative. Mungo offers live-in therapy and the story begins.
March 6, 2023
I wish 6 stars was an option.
This is one of those books that just hits you in the face and then hugs you tight. The way Keith A Pearson explains and portrays the different emotions makes you connect with Jake in a way different to most characters- he tackles some touchy topics regarding betrayal and family issues, and mental health issues but in a way that really is sensitive.
This is one of those books that will stay with me for quite a while.
This is one of those books that just hits you in the face and then hugs you tight. The way Keith A Pearson explains and portrays the different emotions makes you connect with Jake in a way different to most characters- he tackles some touchy topics regarding betrayal and family issues, and mental health issues but in a way that really is sensitive.
This is one of those books that will stay with me for quite a while.
March 11, 2023
I stumbled across The ‘86 Fix a number of years ago and discovered Keith’s books and a genre I’d never normally read? I’ve since read every single one as soon as they’ve been released and they never disappoint! The characters in each of his books stay with you long after the last page. The only negative part is finishing them, I always feel like I’ve said goodbye to a friend. Until next time Mungo, and get a wriggle on writing please Keith!
May 13, 2023
I found this book really quite difficult to put down and looked forward to the next opportunity to continue reading it, something almost alien to me.
It is not a genre I would normally read but having read a number of KAP's books now, I find myself enjoying them more and more. In particular, the Thunk books have given me more food for thought and reflection than any other novel I've read...almost a self help book disguised as a novel.
It is not a genre I would normally read but having read a number of KAP's books now, I find myself enjoying them more and more. In particular, the Thunk books have given me more food for thought and reflection than any other novel I've read...almost a self help book disguised as a novel.
May 14, 2023
Another absolute belter!
I’ve pretty much read everything that Keith has published, and can honestly say I’m never disappointed. His books keep on getting better.
The Way We Thunk is a clever, warm hearted, uplifting read. Recommended for anyone that enjoys a well crafted, intelligent story.
My only problem is I read most of Keith’s books whilst on holiday and I spend more time engrossed in reading than sunbathing!
I’ve pretty much read everything that Keith has published, and can honestly say I’m never disappointed. His books keep on getting better.
The Way We Thunk is a clever, warm hearted, uplifting read. Recommended for anyone that enjoys a well crafted, intelligent story.
My only problem is I read most of Keith’s books whilst on holiday and I spend more time engrossed in reading than sunbathing!
July 31, 2023
Another great read from Keith
The second in the Mungo series of books, the concept of Mungo is quite ingenious and each carries a message that we can all benefit from. The books don’t have to be read in order.
Keith has a particular style of writing that I enjoy, the right blend of informality and his characters are well built even if they only play a small part. I look forward to his next.
The second in the Mungo series of books, the concept of Mungo is quite ingenious and each carries a message that we can all benefit from. The books don’t have to be read in order.
Keith has a particular style of writing that I enjoy, the right blend of informality and his characters are well built even if they only play a small part. I look forward to his next.
October 31, 2023
I read this book in two pickups. I found it very hard to put down, and the reason for that was it was "too good" to put down. This was my 12th Keith Pearson book, and I wasn't disappointed. Jake, our unsung hero, doesn't have a very good attitude for various reasons that become more apparent as you get further into this tome and to be honest, he's not very likeable at all and that's one of the reasons why I like Keiths books because his characters have substance, and Mungo Thunk, well, you have to take him for what he is. Actually, I'm not really sure what he is and I'm not sure Jake does either.
August 1, 2024
VERY, VERY GOOD
I enjoyed this book a lot but I preferred the 1st Mumbo Think book. Maybe if I'd read this first of think differently, we'll never know. It has twists & turns and laugh out loud moments. It's different that's for sure. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND YOU READ IT. Then PLEASE READ ' Meeting Mumbo Think' . The 1st Mumbo Think book. Also his Angel of Camden books starting Clement. A BRILLIANT AUTHOR.
I enjoyed this book a lot but I preferred the 1st Mumbo Think book. Maybe if I'd read this first of think differently, we'll never know. It has twists & turns and laugh out loud moments. It's different that's for sure. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND YOU READ IT. Then PLEASE READ ' Meeting Mumbo Think' . The 1st Mumbo Think book. Also his Angel of Camden books starting Clement. A BRILLIANT AUTHOR.
March 5, 2023
Loved the first Mungo Thunk novel.
And this is even better than the first.
I’m even going to use the word “compelling”.
In fact, I love every book by this author (with the possible exception of the latest Clement instalment - too much ancillary character and not enough Clement).
And it’s rare for me to give a book 🌝🌝 🌝 🌝 🌝
And this is even better than the first.
I’m even going to use the word “compelling”.
In fact, I love every book by this author (with the possible exception of the latest Clement instalment - too much ancillary character and not enough Clement).
And it’s rare for me to give a book 🌝🌝 🌝 🌝 🌝
March 14, 2023
Once AGAIN .. sensational !! thank you so much Keith for yet again a superb read. I'm not really a reader but with all of Keiths books, I'm addicted and simply can not put them down. Got through this one in one full Saturday and it was the best Saturday in a long time... We all need a Mungo Thunk !!
March 19, 2023
Welcome back the mysterious Mr Thunk
There is so much in this examination of human behaviour we can all recognise and it makes you sit back and ask what would I do in these situations. Of course we don’t have Mungo Thunk at our side. Intriguing yet again and I accelerated to finish the book to find out how it all ends. Well worth it !
There is so much in this examination of human behaviour we can all recognise and it makes you sit back and ask what would I do in these situations. Of course we don’t have Mungo Thunk at our side. Intriguing yet again and I accelerated to finish the book to find out how it all ends. Well worth it !
March 29, 2023
Just sublime
A slow build to introduce the story , then we meet Mungo again and the story unfolds towards a delicious finale.
Great writing and characterisation. It depicts the normalcy and mundaneness of life that love and human connections make all worth while.
Who on earth ( or maybe not) is Mungo Thunk?
A slow build to introduce the story , then we meet Mungo again and the story unfolds towards a delicious finale.
Great writing and characterisation. It depicts the normalcy and mundaneness of life that love and human connections make all worth while.
Who on earth ( or maybe not) is Mungo Thunk?
June 23, 2023
Optimism vs Pessimism
Fantasy figure Mungo Thunk shows up again. Bald, small, asking no payment, he comes into the life of a man whose life is falling apart. His wife has cheated, his son won't speak, his job is a waste. Mungo offers his free therapy and the man and his family have their lives turned around.
Fantasy figure Mungo Thunk shows up again. Bald, small, asking no payment, he comes into the life of a man whose life is falling apart. His wife has cheated, his son won't speak, his job is a waste. Mungo offers his free therapy and the man and his family have their lives turned around.
July 3, 2023
Another winner from Keith A. Pearson
I look forward to every new offering from this author and he never disappoints. My only quibbles are with the excessive amounts of alcohol consumed and with the long time it took for the story to get to the appearance of Mungo Thunk. I look forward to more stories with Mungo.
I look forward to every new offering from this author and he never disappoints. My only quibbles are with the excessive amounts of alcohol consumed and with the long time it took for the story to get to the appearance of Mungo Thunk. I look forward to more stories with Mungo.
December 30, 2023
3.5 - second book I’ve read about Mungo Thunk! Enjoyed but not as much as the other one. Main character is a complete ass - which I know is kinda the point as he needs to learn about being positive, but part of me thinks he doesn’t deserve the redemption. Still a nice feel good book with an unusual premise.
April 28, 2025
Binge read it and loved it. As enjoyable as the first and glad I got to read them in succession and didn’t have to wait the years! Although they are fiction the mungo think books really are self help wrapped up a funny, heartbreaking, brilliant story. I don’t think I could tire of the character and hope the author writes a couple more.
Highly recommend.
Highly recommend.
July 18, 2025
I love this Author
Another brilliant book from Keith Pearson. I'm totally addicted to his writing style and his,latter than life characters. I have read all his books in one go -once I have started one I can't put it down until it's finished. Try his books you won't be disappointed
Another brilliant book from Keith Pearson. I'm totally addicted to his writing style and his,latter than life characters. I have read all his books in one go -once I have started one I can't put it down until it's finished. Try his books you won't be disappointed
March 1, 2023
What a brilliant book, was brilliant to have Mungo back. As usual, I laughed and cried my way through this book, like I do most of Keith’s books. Such a great author and I would highly recommend all his books. I hope Mungo is back soon.
March 3, 2023
Fab! Fab! Fab!
I love all of Keith's books but Mungo Thunk has a bit of my heart . This book has it all I always feel I have been taught a valuable lesson by the end, 100 % recommend x
I love all of Keith's books but Mungo Thunk has a bit of my heart . This book has it all I always feel I have been taught a valuable lesson by the end, 100 % recommend x
March 6, 2023
Absolutely brilliant
Keith has, once again written a genius book. At its heart is morality along with epic one liners. I suggest we vote Mungo Thunk for Prime minister! Thanks Keith, more please.
Keith has, once again written a genius book. At its heart is morality along with epic one liners. I suggest we vote Mungo Thunk for Prime minister! Thanks Keith, more please.
March 9, 2023
Brilliant
Welcome back Mungo. I’ve loved all of Keith Pearson’s books, and Mungo is a favourite character. The writing and storytelling is superb and I hope it won’t be too long before Mungo makes another appearance.
Welcome back Mungo. I’ve loved all of Keith Pearson’s books, and Mungo is a favourite character. The writing and storytelling is superb and I hope it won’t be too long before Mungo makes another appearance.
March 10, 2023
Up to the usual standard!
I really enjoy Keith's books, always inventive and entertaining. The only regret is that I finish them in double quick time and am left wanting more. This was no exception. Looking forward to the next one.
I really enjoy Keith's books, always inventive and entertaining. The only regret is that I finish them in double quick time and am left wanting more. This was no exception. Looking forward to the next one.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews