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Things Can Only Get Better
*FROM THE INTERNATIONALLY BESTSELLING AUTHOR OF CALLING MAJOR TOM*
For elderly churchwarden Arthur Calderbank, there's no place like home. His home just so happens to be a graveyard.
He keeps himself to himself, gets on with his job, and visits his wife every day for a chat. When one day he finds someone else has been to see his wife - and has left flowers on her grave - he is determined to solve the mystery of who and why. He receives unlikely help from a group of teenage girls as he searches for answers, and soon learns that there is more to life than being surrounded by death.
Set during the 90s, when we were all just common people believing things could only get better, this is an uplifting story about the power of a little kindness, friendship and community. For readers who enjoy Sue Townsend, Ruth Hogan and Joanna Cannon.
For elderly churchwarden Arthur Calderbank, there's no place like home. His home just so happens to be a graveyard.
He keeps himself to himself, gets on with his job, and visits his wife every day for a chat. When one day he finds someone else has been to see his wife - and has left flowers on her grave - he is determined to solve the mystery of who and why. He receives unlikely help from a group of teenage girls as he searches for answers, and soon learns that there is more to life than being surrounded by death.
Set during the 90s, when we were all just common people believing things could only get better, this is an uplifting story about the power of a little kindness, friendship and community. For readers who enjoy Sue Townsend, Ruth Hogan and Joanna Cannon.
- GenresFictionContemporary
380 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 14, 2019
28 people are currently reading
266 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
November 14, 2019
Arthur Claderbank is a widower who lives in an old chapel in the middle of a cemetery. His deceased wife is buried in the graveyard and Arthur is counting down the days until he can join her. He learns that the council want to I've part of the graveyard and k rock down the chapel so that they can build houses for asylum seekers. Anger grows in the local community. Someone is also leaving flowers o Arthur's wife's grave. They never had children, so who could be leaving them? He loathes the local children for using the cemetery as a short cut. Ut then one by one, Arthur starts to become friends with them. The kids all have their own problems. No one believes they will ever amount to anything.
This book will make you laugh and cry. It will also male you a little angry. The story is set in 1996. It deals with some complex topics: mental health issues, racism, homelessness, loneliness and fears. I liked Arthur and the four kids that befriended him. This is one of these stories that you will still be thinking about long after you've finished reading it. I do recommend this book.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Orion Publishing Group and the author David M. Barnett for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book will make you laugh and cry. It will also male you a little angry. The story is set in 1996. It deals with some complex topics: mental health issues, racism, homelessness, loneliness and fears. I liked Arthur and the four kids that befriended him. This is one of these stories that you will still be thinking about long after you've finished reading it. I do recommend this book.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Orion Publishing Group and the author David M. Barnett for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 3, 2020
Is this a YA book? I don't know. If it is and was called YA I know I wouldn't have touched it with a barge pole, however the fact that it may be YA but I didn't know made me read it and get sucked in by the story of Arthur Calderbank who loved his wife so much that after 43 years of marriage upon her death he moved to the chapel in the cemetery where he could see her grave every morning and last thing at night before he sleeps. His most fervent wish is to wake up dead and be with his Molly forever.....then he meets some pesky kids, misfits all, who just want to be themselves, have a sense of belonging and do something worthwhile with their lives, along side helping Arthur solve the Mystery of the Moonflowers that have been left on Molly's grave on every birthday since her death.
As always books we are meant to learn from cross our paths and for me this book meant that love can forgive the unforgivable, love can pass beyond eternity, family that we choose are often better than family we are thrust upon (or vice versa), and yes, don't be afraid to dream and shoot for the moon, even if you fail you would have a chance to see the stars ✨✨✨✨✨
As always books we are meant to learn from cross our paths and for me this book meant that love can forgive the unforgivable, love can pass beyond eternity, family that we choose are often better than family we are thrust upon (or vice versa), and yes, don't be afraid to dream and shoot for the moon, even if you fail you would have a chance to see the stars ✨✨✨✨✨
November 14, 2019
I’m a big fan of this author’s books as they are always fantastic, unique reads that are hugely enjoyable.
The things I most liked about this book was how realistic it seemed which made me get very engrossed and involved in the story. Set in the 90’s in an old miner town where jobs and opportunities are limited it features some absolutely wonderful characters that are easy to warm to and a few that I loved to hate. The story alternates between Kelly, a girl who wants more from life that what is expected of her, and a grieving widower Author who is trying to stop getting evicted from him chapel home in the graveyard. I loved getting to know the unlikely band of friends and seeing what made them tick. I especially enjoyed watching them all become friends and protectors to each other as they had always been shunned by others.
The author paints a bleak picture of the town the children live in and it was heartbreaking to see what they had to deal with at times. Most of the children weren’t given any opportunities and had been pretty much written off by society. It definitely made me think about how some groups are treated by others just because of where and how they live. Even though it’s based in the 90s the attitudes some people have about immigrants is still on show today which was sad to see. I liked how the author managed to humanise them and subtly show their side of the story.
I thought this story was very absorbing and surprising gripping as I grew very attached to the characters and wanted to keep reading to find out what happens to them. It’s a very poignant and emotional story which had me shedding a tear alongside the characters and then cheering them on when something good happens to them (I think I actually said ‘yes’ out loud at a particular high point). As a 90s kid I loved all the culture references in the book and the music mentioned has had me listening to stuff I haven’t heard in years. There is actually a playlist for the book too which I thought was a great touch.
This is the author’s third book and I’m very excited to read more from him in the future. If you like absorbing reads about unlikely heros then you’ll love this book!
Huge thanks to Alex from Trapeze publishers for my copy of this book and for inviting me onto the blog tour.
The things I most liked about this book was how realistic it seemed which made me get very engrossed and involved in the story. Set in the 90’s in an old miner town where jobs and opportunities are limited it features some absolutely wonderful characters that are easy to warm to and a few that I loved to hate. The story alternates between Kelly, a girl who wants more from life that what is expected of her, and a grieving widower Author who is trying to stop getting evicted from him chapel home in the graveyard. I loved getting to know the unlikely band of friends and seeing what made them tick. I especially enjoyed watching them all become friends and protectors to each other as they had always been shunned by others.
The author paints a bleak picture of the town the children live in and it was heartbreaking to see what they had to deal with at times. Most of the children weren’t given any opportunities and had been pretty much written off by society. It definitely made me think about how some groups are treated by others just because of where and how they live. Even though it’s based in the 90s the attitudes some people have about immigrants is still on show today which was sad to see. I liked how the author managed to humanise them and subtly show their side of the story.
I thought this story was very absorbing and surprising gripping as I grew very attached to the characters and wanted to keep reading to find out what happens to them. It’s a very poignant and emotional story which had me shedding a tear alongside the characters and then cheering them on when something good happens to them (I think I actually said ‘yes’ out loud at a particular high point). As a 90s kid I loved all the culture references in the book and the music mentioned has had me listening to stuff I haven’t heard in years. There is actually a playlist for the book too which I thought was a great touch.
This is the author’s third book and I’m very excited to read more from him in the future. If you like absorbing reads about unlikely heros then you’ll love this book!
Huge thanks to Alex from Trapeze publishers for my copy of this book and for inviting me onto the blog tour.
June 27, 2023
A feel-good book, light-hearted, and though it made me a little sad at some points, it was absolutely heartwarming. But definitely one of those books that you know will end well, and everything will be completely fine.
Arthur Calderbank, a WW2 veteran, lives in an abandoned chapel in the cemetery where his wife is buried. He forges an unlikely but meaningful bond with a group of misfit teens and sets about finding out the mystery person who visits his wife's grave on her birthday every year. The story revolves around the idea of 'chosen families'. It is portrayed wonderfully. Who you pick as your chosen family is entirely up to you, and there are no genetic or natural bonds binding you to them. It is simply love. You actively choose to love them and have them in your life. Without being tied to you by blood, these are wholesome relations that enrich your life and make it more meaningful.
I think love is thicker than blood. I think family can be whoever you want them to be. If you just love them enough.
3.5 stars rounded up.
Arthur Calderbank, a WW2 veteran, lives in an abandoned chapel in the cemetery where his wife is buried. He forges an unlikely but meaningful bond with a group of misfit teens and sets about finding out the mystery person who visits his wife's grave on her birthday every year. The story revolves around the idea of 'chosen families'. It is portrayed wonderfully. Who you pick as your chosen family is entirely up to you, and there are no genetic or natural bonds binding you to them. It is simply love. You actively choose to love them and have them in your life. Without being tied to you by blood, these are wholesome relations that enrich your life and make it more meaningful.
I think love is thicker than blood. I think family can be whoever you want them to be. If you just love them enough.
3.5 stars rounded up.
July 24, 2020
I didn't know anything about this book before I started reading it. I have read one other by this author and loved it , it was quirky, humorous and with very interesting characters. This one has the interesting characters, old Arthur who lives in a cemetery is one of them, he lives there to be near his deceased wife, and seems a lost old soul. Then there are the young folks, a motley selection of odd bods & misfits , who form friendships, first among themselves and then with Arthur. An interesting story develops, but it is not a bundle of laughs, but rather a serious and at times depressing picture of a Northern UK town in the 1990's. The unemployment, poverty, racism and a sense of hopelessness of the community are themes the author tackles, and does it in a very thought provoking way. I enjoyed this novel.
November 8, 2019
This is my second book by this author and it is a book you will again fall in love with the more that you read, a story that slowly draws you in as you get to know the characters and compels you to keep reading. It discusses social inequality and how opportunities do not always present themselves easily but with enough fight you can go after what you want to make the life you want for yourself.
I found that the more I got to know Arthur and his companions who he spoke to in the graveyard each morning, the more I wanted to keep reading to find out what had led Arthur to be leading such a solitary life. At least, Arthur did lead a quiet life until the kids who you will grow to love as you keep reading indadvertedly find themselves at the door of the chapel and you begin to wonder what can blossom from this budding relationship.
I found this an enlightening read that I would also recommend to my teenage daughter as it highlights bullying and social issues that need highlighting to help behaviours change in the future. Another stunning read by David Barnett that I thoroughly enjoyed with such wonderful characters and amazing attention to detail which makes this whole story unravel in your imagination so clearly.
I found that the more I got to know Arthur and his companions who he spoke to in the graveyard each morning, the more I wanted to keep reading to find out what had led Arthur to be leading such a solitary life. At least, Arthur did lead a quiet life until the kids who you will grow to love as you keep reading indadvertedly find themselves at the door of the chapel and you begin to wonder what can blossom from this budding relationship.
I found this an enlightening read that I would also recommend to my teenage daughter as it highlights bullying and social issues that need highlighting to help behaviours change in the future. Another stunning read by David Barnett that I thoroughly enjoyed with such wonderful characters and amazing attention to detail which makes this whole story unravel in your imagination so clearly.
January 14, 2020
A lonely widower who makes his home in an old chapel to be close to his dead wife. Four working class teeangers in the Thatcher era that live in council housing and whose life won't amount to anything according to their teachers. Who the heck could you turn such a miserable tale into something positive and hopeful? Well, hold my Tango, said David M. Barnett.
"Things Can Only Get Better" is Barnett's third novel I've devoured. I'm a huge fan and Barnett deserves more. His characters leap off the page, his plots are beautiful and despite the little dose of Hollywood in his endings I truly believe life should be more like a Barnett novel. This is not just a story about loss, love, grief, family, poverty and friendship, but also a love hymn to the 90ies.
If you like audiobooks I strongly recommend the audio version read by the brilliant David Thorpe, who is an amazing voice actor.
Highly recommended.
"Things Can Only Get Better" is Barnett's third novel I've devoured. I'm a huge fan and Barnett deserves more. His characters leap off the page, his plots are beautiful and despite the little dose of Hollywood in his endings I truly believe life should be more like a Barnett novel. This is not just a story about loss, love, grief, family, poverty and friendship, but also a love hymn to the 90ies.
If you like audiobooks I strongly recommend the audio version read by the brilliant David Thorpe, who is an amazing voice actor.
Highly recommended.
November 20, 2019
I rarely pre-order books. Look I have no idea of my finances from one day to the next , never mind if I’ll have £3.99 in my current account in six months time.
But I pre-ordered Things Can Only Get Better on Kindle and on Audible.
Purely on the basis that David M Barnett’s last two books, Calling Major Tom and the Growing Pains of Jennifer Ebert are among my all time favourites.
The wait has been agonising.
Was it worth it?
Things Can Only Get Better is his best book to date.
Barnett is the Stephen King of poignant.
His books, and this one in particular have an air of sadness and melancholy. Based in everyday experiences and emotions that the reader can fully understand and have experienced themselves. Barnett’s writing feels real. There is no better for way for me to describe it.
This sadness and melancholy is tempered with real laugh out loud humour and maybe more importantly and certainly more unusual for the books I usually read; Hope.
No other author I have ever read conveys as much beauty in regards to human relationships as Barnett.
He makes you ache for his characters, he makes you fall in love with them and really care about the events they find themselves in.
Set in the 90’s, the nostalgia for the decade I spent as a teenager, after reading this is palpable. I want to buy the clothes I had, I want to listen to the music I listened to and watch the TV watched. If my wife is reading this, I definitely do not want to date the girls I dated. Barnett took me back wholesale to the 90’s with this with his subtle weaving of pop culture references throughout the book allowing you to piece together exactly when it’s set, like a trivia nerds dream jigsaw puzzle.
That said, it’s a book very much rooted in the Britain of today and the lessons that can be learned are 100 percent relevant right now. I wish I could airdrop a copy of this book into every household before the general election.
It has it’s own soundtrack. No really. David M. Barnett compiled on one Spotify just for this novel, but even without it the book has its own track listing that plays in your head while you read it.
Things Can Only Get Better is a love story, its a mystery novel; it contains heartbreaking and completely unexpected war stories. It’s a beautiful, beautiful book about redemption and second chances. It made me laugh, it made me genuinely cry sitting in traffic, but mostly it made me impatient for the authors next book. If you see a title with David M. Barnett on the cover? Buy it you are in for a treat.
But I pre-ordered Things Can Only Get Better on Kindle and on Audible.
Purely on the basis that David M Barnett’s last two books, Calling Major Tom and the Growing Pains of Jennifer Ebert are among my all time favourites.
The wait has been agonising.
Was it worth it?
Things Can Only Get Better is his best book to date.
Barnett is the Stephen King of poignant.
His books, and this one in particular have an air of sadness and melancholy. Based in everyday experiences and emotions that the reader can fully understand and have experienced themselves. Barnett’s writing feels real. There is no better for way for me to describe it.
This sadness and melancholy is tempered with real laugh out loud humour and maybe more importantly and certainly more unusual for the books I usually read; Hope.
No other author I have ever read conveys as much beauty in regards to human relationships as Barnett.
He makes you ache for his characters, he makes you fall in love with them and really care about the events they find themselves in.
Set in the 90’s, the nostalgia for the decade I spent as a teenager, after reading this is palpable. I want to buy the clothes I had, I want to listen to the music I listened to and watch the TV watched. If my wife is reading this, I definitely do not want to date the girls I dated. Barnett took me back wholesale to the 90’s with this with his subtle weaving of pop culture references throughout the book allowing you to piece together exactly when it’s set, like a trivia nerds dream jigsaw puzzle.
That said, it’s a book very much rooted in the Britain of today and the lessons that can be learned are 100 percent relevant right now. I wish I could airdrop a copy of this book into every household before the general election.
It has it’s own soundtrack. No really. David M. Barnett compiled on one Spotify just for this novel, but even without it the book has its own track listing that plays in your head while you read it.
Things Can Only Get Better is a love story, its a mystery novel; it contains heartbreaking and completely unexpected war stories. It’s a beautiful, beautiful book about redemption and second chances. It made me laugh, it made me genuinely cry sitting in traffic, but mostly it made me impatient for the authors next book. If you see a title with David M. Barnett on the cover? Buy it you are in for a treat.
April 2, 2023
I don’t know why i’m crying.
It was a fine book. Nothing extraordinary, really.
But perhaps that is exactly why it works.
It’s not flashy, it’s simple- predictable, maybe. Feel-good stuff usually is though, so i’ll forgive the narrative that at times featured enough serendipity to beat a grainy 90s Hollywood flick (you know exactly what i’m talking about).
It did what it intended to do, I suppose. Made us meet characters much like ourselves, and gave them purpose- which, in a strange way, is sort of like giving us purpose too.
I walk away from this gentle little book having cried at the depiction of friendship, family, love and time. And I think that means I’ve taken something from it. It’s all I ask of a book sometimes, just to feel.
And right now?
Well, I feel that maybe after all, things can, truly only get better.
It was a fine book. Nothing extraordinary, really.
But perhaps that is exactly why it works.
It’s not flashy, it’s simple- predictable, maybe. Feel-good stuff usually is though, so i’ll forgive the narrative that at times featured enough serendipity to beat a grainy 90s Hollywood flick (you know exactly what i’m talking about).
It did what it intended to do, I suppose. Made us meet characters much like ourselves, and gave them purpose- which, in a strange way, is sort of like giving us purpose too.
I walk away from this gentle little book having cried at the depiction of friendship, family, love and time. And I think that means I’ve taken something from it. It’s all I ask of a book sometimes, just to feel.
And right now?
Well, I feel that maybe after all, things can, truly only get better.
December 2, 2022
Amazing book, amazing writer
Such a great story of hope and inspiration. Growing up in a rural area myself I knew exactly how each of these characters felt forgotten and were encouraged not to dream. And just like them I learned that often to create change you have to believe in yourself when no one else does. Loved the ending, not trite, and a good reminder that not all paths lead where you think but you can still end up somewhere amazing.
Such a great story of hope and inspiration. Growing up in a rural area myself I knew exactly how each of these characters felt forgotten and were encouraged not to dream. And just like them I learned that often to create change you have to believe in yourself when no one else does. Loved the ending, not trite, and a good reminder that not all paths lead where you think but you can still end up somewhere amazing.
November 9, 2021
The book was brilliant. Great story, message, believable characters and historical events giving background of a working class in ‘90s in the UK. Love the fact the author added information about music from the times with a playlist he created on Spotify, really original! I will surely look for more books written by David Barnett.
November 3, 2021
I loved this. The characters were completely believable. Arthur was just a delight and I swear I went to school with girls like Kelly, Gemma and Nicola. The racist thugs were wonderfully written and suitably ridiculed. A lovely,heart warming ending finished it all off nicely.
January 21, 2022
Heartwarming, uplifting tale of an unlikely friendship between an old man and some teenagers who start a band!
March 31, 2023
A very heart warming book.
November 12, 2019
"Things Can Only Get Better" is a story about a group of truly unlikely friends who found each other rather accidentally. Arthur is a pensioner whose wife, Molly, died seven years ago but he still didn't let her go and ended up living in the old chapel in the middle of the cemetery, becoming its caretaker and being not too far away from the love of his life. Arthur is very protective of the cemetery and is not happy with the neighbourhood children who dare to use it as a short - cut, or - even worse - a hung - out. In the meantime, someone has been leaving flowers on Molly's grave on her birthday for the past few years and Arthur is determined to find who it is. But with this happening in the night and his deteriorating health, the teenagers promise him to help to catch the mysterious visitor. A unique bond is formed between Arthur and the kids and soon they find themselves in a few different battles - together.
You can't help yourself but immediately fell for the characters. My heart went to Arthur and I was desperate to know what has happened to him to be leading such a solitary life, and then to the kids, seeing them growing up, their determination and their blossoming friendship. The author has breathed fresh air and life into them, and into the book, showing us a much bigger picture, showing that each story has different sides. You'll end up willing the characters to succeed. Each of the four teenagers has their own story that is incredibly captivating and I loved how much focus they brought back into Arthur's life. Their difficulties in fitting with the "cools" at school was so authentic and brutally honest. The way the kids were portrayed was heart - breaking, especially the way they were perceived by their school - mates, neighbours and other members of society They were all outcasts at their school because they didn't fit the "description", they found the courage to be different and have dreams, and hence they were judged by their teachers who didn't believe they have a chance for a better future (and if you hear already at school that the only thing you can do is work as a secretary or at the factory, well, it's not too promising and optimistic, right?), judged by their parent's choices of life and really, it seems that nobody sees/doesn't want to see their potential - except for Arthur.
When I started reading this book, I immediately fell in love with it. There was this "something" that made it feel so outstanding and special, the characters were like living and breathing people, and the story was heart - breaking and also humorous, and the more you read, the more you fell in love with it. However, I must admit, that somewhere around the middle, it lost its impact a little and started to drag on a bit, but it was still a compelling, addictive read.
Mostly the novel is about social inequality and about stereotyping and determination, about grabbing life by its horns and squeezing it like lemon. It also touches upon bullying, homelessness, mental illness, loneliness and other social issues with a great sensitivity, so I wouldn't be afraid to give this book to my teenage child should I have one, as it deals with those issues, and with all the plotlines, in a brilliant, wise - but not too wise, you know what I mean? Not too patronising, not too I know everything better - way.
"Things Can Only Get Better" made me cry, laugh, made me angry but also filled me with hope with its warm glow. Ultimately, even though there is a lot of pain, disappointment and problems under the surface and the characters have to deal with many challenges, there is humour and moments of joy and it has the wonderful feel - good factor to it. It's deeply moving and very close to life, a brilliant read that I highly recommend.
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
October 17, 2019
Wanting a book that will inspire you, make you angry, laugh and cry? Then this was written just for you. I want to be subjective about this book, but a story that cheered me up through recent black days is something that is very rare. David M Barnett is one of those rare authors that can breathe life into seemingly normal humdrum life and make us see the bigger picture. This book has a warm glow to it, makes life bearable and definitely should be available on the NHS.
So why is this book so good? Well it’s set in the real world, warts and all. Nothing is good in the lives of the characters, they’re just wandering along with no hope. Arthur, the main character (mainly because he’s the glue that binds them together) is a retired old man living in a derelict chapel in the middle of a graveyard. His wife, Molly, lies in a grave just a few steps from the door. The other four main characters are Nicola, Timmy, Gemma and Kelly, four year 10’s from the local council estate. Nothing much is expected of them in life, the school has given up on them. Their families are all dysfunctional, struggling to live and survive. It’s set in 1996 yet the struggles and challenges it could easily be today. The same issues exist which is why this book is so uplifting. Nothing seems to be changing, until Kelly has an idea.
This book deals with complex topics, homelessness, under achievement, racism, xenophobia, fears, mental illness and loneliness. The teenagers would end up on the scrapheap if it wasn’t for their actions. Alone they were floating away like flotsam on the river, together they make a raft that saves their lives. You learn to love these characters, willing them on to succeed, not wanting to accept what the school and life throws at them. Arthur is a gentle soul, a local ‘war hero’. His interaction with the ‘gang’ changes his life.
This book is full of references to pop culture in 1996, the groups, the music and even Buzz Lightyear. It’ll appeal to those who lived through it and to people struggling to live in the current climate. It shows the power of acting together to defeat dark forces, of not giving up and trying to maintain a smile on your face whilst doing it. The authors other books have the same effect on me, yet this one is the best so far. He sees the mundane, the common people and writes about them, yet not in a negative way. A book that’s like a warm hug to your soul.
I’ll definitely be buying a paper copy 🙂
This ARC book was sent for a fair and honest review by the author via NetGallery . The resulting review is my honest thoughts after reading the book.
So why is this book so good? Well it’s set in the real world, warts and all. Nothing is good in the lives of the characters, they’re just wandering along with no hope. Arthur, the main character (mainly because he’s the glue that binds them together) is a retired old man living in a derelict chapel in the middle of a graveyard. His wife, Molly, lies in a grave just a few steps from the door. The other four main characters are Nicola, Timmy, Gemma and Kelly, four year 10’s from the local council estate. Nothing much is expected of them in life, the school has given up on them. Their families are all dysfunctional, struggling to live and survive. It’s set in 1996 yet the struggles and challenges it could easily be today. The same issues exist which is why this book is so uplifting. Nothing seems to be changing, until Kelly has an idea.
This book deals with complex topics, homelessness, under achievement, racism, xenophobia, fears, mental illness and loneliness. The teenagers would end up on the scrapheap if it wasn’t for their actions. Alone they were floating away like flotsam on the river, together they make a raft that saves their lives. You learn to love these characters, willing them on to succeed, not wanting to accept what the school and life throws at them. Arthur is a gentle soul, a local ‘war hero’. His interaction with the ‘gang’ changes his life.
This book is full of references to pop culture in 1996, the groups, the music and even Buzz Lightyear. It’ll appeal to those who lived through it and to people struggling to live in the current climate. It shows the power of acting together to defeat dark forces, of not giving up and trying to maintain a smile on your face whilst doing it. The authors other books have the same effect on me, yet this one is the best so far. He sees the mundane, the common people and writes about them, yet not in a negative way. A book that’s like a warm hug to your soul.
I’ll definitely be buying a paper copy 🙂
This ARC book was sent for a fair and honest review by the author via NetGallery . The resulting review is my honest thoughts after reading the book.
August 20, 2025
Wanting a book that will inspire you, make you angry, laugh and cry? Then this was written just for you. I want to be subjective about this book, but a story that cheered me up through recent black days is something that is very rare. David M Barnett is one of those rare authors that can breathe life into seemingly normal humdrum life and make us see the bigger picture. This book has a warm glow to it, makes life bearable and definitely should be available on the NHS.
So why is this book so good? Well it’s set in the real world, warts and all. Nothing is good in the lives of the characters, they’re just wandering along with no hope. Arthur, the main character (mainly because he’s the glue that binds them together) is a retired old man living in a derelict chapel in the middle of a graveyard. His wife, Molly, lies in a grave just a few steps from the door. The other four main characters are Nicola, Timmy, Gemma and Kelly, four year 10’s from the local council estate. Nothing much is expected of them in life, the school has given up on them. Their families are all dysfunctional, struggling to live and survive. It’s set in 1996 yet the struggles and challenges it could easily be today. The same issues exist which is why this book is so uplifting. Nothing seems to be changing, until Kelly has an idea.
This book deals with complex topics, homelessness, under achievement, racism, xenophobia, fears, mental illness and loneliness. The teenagers would end up on the scrapheap if it wasn’t for their actions. Alone they were floating away like flotsam on the river, together they make a raft that saves their lives. You learn to love these characters, willing them on to succeed, not wanting to accept what the school and life throws at them. Arthur is a gentle soul, a local ‘war hero’. His interaction with the ‘gang’ changes his life.
This book is full of references to pop culture in 1996, the groups, the music and even Buzz Lightyear. It’ll appeal to those who lived through it and to people struggling to live in the current climate. It shows the power of acting together to defeat dark forces, of not giving up and trying to maintain a smile on your face whilst doing it. The authors other books have the same effect on me, yet this one is the best so far. He sees the mundane, the common people and writes about them, yet not in a negative way. A book that’s like a warm hug to your soul.
I’ll definitely be buying a paper copy
So why is this book so good? Well it’s set in the real world, warts and all. Nothing is good in the lives of the characters, they’re just wandering along with no hope. Arthur, the main character (mainly because he’s the glue that binds them together) is a retired old man living in a derelict chapel in the middle of a graveyard. His wife, Molly, lies in a grave just a few steps from the door. The other four main characters are Nicola, Timmy, Gemma and Kelly, four year 10’s from the local council estate. Nothing much is expected of them in life, the school has given up on them. Their families are all dysfunctional, struggling to live and survive. It’s set in 1996 yet the struggles and challenges it could easily be today. The same issues exist which is why this book is so uplifting. Nothing seems to be changing, until Kelly has an idea.
This book deals with complex topics, homelessness, under achievement, racism, xenophobia, fears, mental illness and loneliness. The teenagers would end up on the scrapheap if it wasn’t for their actions. Alone they were floating away like flotsam on the river, together they make a raft that saves their lives. You learn to love these characters, willing them on to succeed, not wanting to accept what the school and life throws at them. Arthur is a gentle soul, a local ‘war hero’. His interaction with the ‘gang’ changes his life.
This book is full of references to pop culture in 1996, the groups, the music and even Buzz Lightyear. It’ll appeal to those who lived through it and to people struggling to live in the current climate. It shows the power of acting together to defeat dark forces, of not giving up and trying to maintain a smile on your face whilst doing it. The authors other books have the same effect on me, yet this one is the best so far. He sees the mundane, the common people and writes about them, yet not in a negative way. A book that’s like a warm hug to your soul.
I’ll definitely be buying a paper copy
December 23, 2019
This is such a charming story, one that is guaranteed to capture your heart and remind you that we can realise our dreams if we only believe in ourselves.
Centred around a cemetery where Arthur Calderbank lives in a chapel, tending the graves, talking to the occupants and most importantly staying close to his beloved wife Molly who died from cancer, we are brought an unfolding story of love and hope. Family is not necessarily the one we were born into but the one we choose and, with an open heart, that family can be as big and diverse as we want it to be.
Set up North, during the 80s and 90s, a Thatcher Britain and The Miner's Strike as the backdrop, we are invited into the lives of Arthur and the family he ends up choosing, four kids from The Avenues estate, all attending Marigold Brook school, and all destined for nothing. No-one believes in them, no-one expects anything good will come of them and nobody is on their side, apart from Arthur.
The unlikely 'family' meet in the cemetery and chapel and are brought together by music and the real essence of what it is to be a hero. A powerful message, resonating particularly strongly at the time of year I read this book (Christmas time), of peace on earth in the form of love, kindness, forgiveness and hope. Between the kids and Arthur, they make a stand to fight against the racial tension brewing and to fight against the poverty and unemployment that wants to define them. Through them we understand how important it is to be able to stand apart from the crowd when it is necessary, to be courageous enough to fight for what you believe in, and to show love and kindness to your community. At the Old Hall there are asylum seekers desperate to flee the sadness and trauma of their homelands, the Moonflower Mystery flower bringer is desperate to make a connection, and Nicola is hoarding cans of food, water and candles in a 'bunker' in the cemetery believing she can help her mother, who is broken by her husband's suicide.
At turns heart-breaking and uplifting, this book is a wonderful story to inspire us all to remember what really matters in life.
Centred around a cemetery where Arthur Calderbank lives in a chapel, tending the graves, talking to the occupants and most importantly staying close to his beloved wife Molly who died from cancer, we are brought an unfolding story of love and hope. Family is not necessarily the one we were born into but the one we choose and, with an open heart, that family can be as big and diverse as we want it to be.
Set up North, during the 80s and 90s, a Thatcher Britain and The Miner's Strike as the backdrop, we are invited into the lives of Arthur and the family he ends up choosing, four kids from The Avenues estate, all attending Marigold Brook school, and all destined for nothing. No-one believes in them, no-one expects anything good will come of them and nobody is on their side, apart from Arthur.
The unlikely 'family' meet in the cemetery and chapel and are brought together by music and the real essence of what it is to be a hero. A powerful message, resonating particularly strongly at the time of year I read this book (Christmas time), of peace on earth in the form of love, kindness, forgiveness and hope. Between the kids and Arthur, they make a stand to fight against the racial tension brewing and to fight against the poverty and unemployment that wants to define them. Through them we understand how important it is to be able to stand apart from the crowd when it is necessary, to be courageous enough to fight for what you believe in, and to show love and kindness to your community. At the Old Hall there are asylum seekers desperate to flee the sadness and trauma of their homelands, the Moonflower Mystery flower bringer is desperate to make a connection, and Nicola is hoarding cans of food, water and candles in a 'bunker' in the cemetery believing she can help her mother, who is broken by her husband's suicide.
At turns heart-breaking and uplifting, this book is a wonderful story to inspire us all to remember what really matters in life.
April 2, 2020
If there's one thing you can rely on from Mr B's recent output (this being the third book in a very loose but thematically-linked trilogy) is a warm hug of a novel.
And if we don't need one of those right now...
Staring with Major Tom, and then followed up by Growing Pains, David has been delving into family life, passions and human emotion. Chasing dreams and finding friends.
And now, in Things Can Only Get Better, he does so through the prism of the 90s - and era the author and this reviewer both remember well.
If with different experiences. He growing up in North, and me facing life in a county most people haven't heard of.
But those different backgrounds don't matter when a book like this comes along.
Because Barnett (a fourth way of referring to him can't be far off, can it...) uses the setting as a springboard for a tightly-woven narrative that brings generations together and shows that we all have far more in common than divides us.
Fans of his early work will know this author has a gift for weaving seemingly disparate narratives together - and Things is a fine example of his craft.
The story of the mystery flowers on a grave is laid out alongside a young group of friends chasing dreams of being in a band and a group of disaffected unemployed being led down the wrong path by a loud-mouth with a gift for manipulation (nope, no idea when he gets his character ideas from).
All three paths intertwine, have twists and surprises, and - yet again - resolutions that are clouded by wet eyes.
It's been an utter delight to follow DB's work (think that's actually the fifth) from the off.
After this book, I can't wait to see where he takes is next.
And if we don't need one of those right now...
Staring with Major Tom, and then followed up by Growing Pains, David has been delving into family life, passions and human emotion. Chasing dreams and finding friends.
And now, in Things Can Only Get Better, he does so through the prism of the 90s - and era the author and this reviewer both remember well.
If with different experiences. He growing up in North, and me facing life in a county most people haven't heard of.
But those different backgrounds don't matter when a book like this comes along.
Because Barnett (a fourth way of referring to him can't be far off, can it...) uses the setting as a springboard for a tightly-woven narrative that brings generations together and shows that we all have far more in common than divides us.
Fans of his early work will know this author has a gift for weaving seemingly disparate narratives together - and Things is a fine example of his craft.
The story of the mystery flowers on a grave is laid out alongside a young group of friends chasing dreams of being in a band and a group of disaffected unemployed being led down the wrong path by a loud-mouth with a gift for manipulation (nope, no idea when he gets his character ideas from).
All three paths intertwine, have twists and surprises, and - yet again - resolutions that are clouded by wet eyes.
It's been an utter delight to follow DB's work (think that's actually the fifth) from the off.
After this book, I can't wait to see where he takes is next.
November 14, 2019
This is a book to savour, a mixture of poignant moments and humour, of friendship and family, of loneliness and belonging. Set in the 1990's, it captures the time, as a community shows its scars from the unemployment and social policies of the 80's which damaged many lives. For a book which is ultimately uplifting, there are some dark issues lurking below the surface. Most striking to me were the low expectations and stereotyping which were visited on the 'have nots' and which seemed to put people into boxes, almost like an invisible prison. The ugliness of racism and misplaced jingoism showed a cruel side which was destructive and hateful. Set against this were little moments of compassion and kindness.
Arthur's story is a poignant and emotional one. You can't help but like him as he lives quietly on the edge of the cemetery, trying to hang on to the memories of his deceased wife. The young people who he befriends bring him back into the currency of everyday life. In their efforts to break out of the preordained existence which seemed to be their due, there is humour to be found in their attempts to form a band. Some of the aspects of the life in the 1990's is still with us- unemployment, asylum seekers, far right groups, mental health issues, bullying - so it is interesting to see these problems framed back in time.
In short: A thoughtful look at the 1990's. Thanks to the author for a copy of the book.
Arthur's story is a poignant and emotional one. You can't help but like him as he lives quietly on the edge of the cemetery, trying to hang on to the memories of his deceased wife. The young people who he befriends bring him back into the currency of everyday life. In their efforts to break out of the preordained existence which seemed to be their due, there is humour to be found in their attempts to form a band. Some of the aspects of the life in the 1990's is still with us- unemployment, asylum seekers, far right groups, mental health issues, bullying - so it is interesting to see these problems framed back in time.
In short: A thoughtful look at the 1990's. Thanks to the author for a copy of the book.
November 14, 2019
We are transported back to the 90’s in this fantastic and believable novel. From the cover you would expect a Christmas novel which you do get but not as we know it and that’s what I loved about it.
The book focuses on 3 girls from a Local School whose lives are anything but simple and Arthur who lives in the chapel and visits his wife’s grave daily, but is suspicious when every Christmas flowers are left on her grave and this year he plans to find out who is leaving them.
The book built up the further it went along which I felt provided enough time to learn about the characters but also to fall in love with them. I love the friendships that are built regardless of age and it highlights that you should not be judgmental of someone based on their family or situation.
The book takes you on a roller coaster of emotions from sadness, laughing and anger (mainly at one character). It has friendship, love and loss and what I loved was that it covered current topics such as immigration/racism and deprivation.
My only criticism is that it wasn’t long enough 🙂 If I’m being honest I could have read about Arthur and the girls for even longer but I know all good things must come to an end.
It is definitely a book I would re read and will be recommending to people who want a festive read but not in the traditional sense.
The book focuses on 3 girls from a Local School whose lives are anything but simple and Arthur who lives in the chapel and visits his wife’s grave daily, but is suspicious when every Christmas flowers are left on her grave and this year he plans to find out who is leaving them.
The book built up the further it went along which I felt provided enough time to learn about the characters but also to fall in love with them. I love the friendships that are built regardless of age and it highlights that you should not be judgmental of someone based on their family or situation.
The book takes you on a roller coaster of emotions from sadness, laughing and anger (mainly at one character). It has friendship, love and loss and what I loved was that it covered current topics such as immigration/racism and deprivation.
My only criticism is that it wasn’t long enough 🙂 If I’m being honest I could have read about Arthur and the girls for even longer but I know all good things must come to an end.
It is definitely a book I would re read and will be recommending to people who want a festive read but not in the traditional sense.
October 27, 2019
Absolutely wonderful book, I adored this one! I fell in love with the curmudgeonly pensioner Arthur and my heart broke for him as he basically counted down the days till he could join his deceased wife Molly. He lived in the old chapel of the graveyard so he could be near to Molly. However, the appearance in the graveyard of some disparate teenagers who formed a tentative kind of friendship caused him to gain a new focus in life.
I loved the stories of the teenagers and felt the portrayal of their awkwardness and difficulties in fitting in with the cool gang was painfully authentic. The story is set in the 1990s with plenty of references to the popculture of the day. The mother of one of the girls was obsessed with Threads and the threat of nuclear war and I could certainly identify with her! I remember being absolutely traumatised after seeing this programme as a teenager and references like this really help to set the scene of the time period.
The book is at times heartbreakingly sad but also extremely funny, I love this author's sense of humour. I honestly can't praise this book enough it is absolutely brilliant.
I loved the stories of the teenagers and felt the portrayal of their awkwardness and difficulties in fitting in with the cool gang was painfully authentic. The story is set in the 1990s with plenty of references to the popculture of the day. The mother of one of the girls was obsessed with Threads and the threat of nuclear war and I could certainly identify with her! I remember being absolutely traumatised after seeing this programme as a teenager and references like this really help to set the scene of the time period.
The book is at times heartbreakingly sad but also extremely funny, I love this author's sense of humour. I honestly can't praise this book enough it is absolutely brilliant.
October 23, 2025
I'm not joking when I say this is one of my favourite books, and an ultimate comfort place for me (the spine of my book is literally broken from how long and how much ive read this book). A well written storyline, uniquely diverse characters, honest portrayal of loss, matched with witty banter...makes quite the novel.
Storytime...I read this book in highschool after borrowing it from the library and genuinely enjoyed it. Years later, I kept thinking about the novel and knew I had to find it again...but my history in the library system was lost, and I couldn't find the title or author! So after an online conversation with a local librarian, they managed to track down this novel from what vague moments of the storyline I could remember. (shoutout to librarians - the unspoken heroes of our communities!)
I then went online and immediately bought the novel, diving into the storyline as soon as it arrived at my door. I was more than pleasantly surprised to find it was just as good as I remember it.
Young kids battling a broken system, and old man grieving a deep loss, a mystery, and a dream...its a novel I'd recommend to everyone. Go on - why are you still here? 😉
Storytime...I read this book in highschool after borrowing it from the library and genuinely enjoyed it. Years later, I kept thinking about the novel and knew I had to find it again...but my history in the library system was lost, and I couldn't find the title or author! So after an online conversation with a local librarian, they managed to track down this novel from what vague moments of the storyline I could remember. (shoutout to librarians - the unspoken heroes of our communities!)
I then went online and immediately bought the novel, diving into the storyline as soon as it arrived at my door. I was more than pleasantly surprised to find it was just as good as I remember it.
Young kids battling a broken system, and old man grieving a deep loss, a mystery, and a dream...its a novel I'd recommend to everyone. Go on - why are you still here? 😉
November 12, 2019
Left adrift when his beloved wife died, Arthur moved into a disused chapel in the cemetery grounds and took up a job as groundskeeper. He lives a solitary life and enjoys it. Or at least, doesn't hate it. Actually, he doesn't feel much of anything these days. Irritation at the local teens, who are always taking short cuts through the graveyard. Fear and worry, when he learns that the council plans to move part of the graveyard and destroy his chapel to build housing for asylum seekers. As anger grows in the local community, Arthur and the group of disaffected teens who have befriended him must decide what's worth fighting for, and what should be left in the past.
My synopsis only scratches the surface of what this book is about. Each of the four teens has their own story line, with Kelly getting the most attention and Timmy the least. There's a mystery subplot about flowers being left on Arthur's wife's grave, and the kids trying to start a band, and flashbacks to Arthur's war (hero) past, and the expectations society puts on kids from this kind of background...there's a lot going on here, and David does very well at keeping each story line distinct while it's still wrapped up with the others.
It's a good read for this time of year. not just because it's set in December but because it reminds us how little things have changed in the last 23 years. There are still asylum seekers, fleeing from unspeakable horrors and treated disgracefully badly when they arrive here; there are still people willing to blame their problems on anyone else; there's still unemployment and troubles and social stratification. But there are still good people out there too, Arthurs and Peters and Kellys, and as long as we have enough of them we'll do alright.
Pick this one up if you need a cosy read for the holidays. You won't be sorry.
My synopsis only scratches the surface of what this book is about. Each of the four teens has their own story line, with Kelly getting the most attention and Timmy the least. There's a mystery subplot about flowers being left on Arthur's wife's grave, and the kids trying to start a band, and flashbacks to Arthur's war (hero) past, and the expectations society puts on kids from this kind of background...there's a lot going on here, and David does very well at keeping each story line distinct while it's still wrapped up with the others.
It's a good read for this time of year. not just because it's set in December but because it reminds us how little things have changed in the last 23 years. There are still asylum seekers, fleeing from unspeakable horrors and treated disgracefully badly when they arrive here; there are still people willing to blame their problems on anyone else; there's still unemployment and troubles and social stratification. But there are still good people out there too, Arthurs and Peters and Kellys, and as long as we have enough of them we'll do alright.
Pick this one up if you need a cosy read for the holidays. You won't be sorry.
November 8, 2019
Barnett's follow up to CALLING MAJOR TOM is nothing if not entertaining, following the line of an elderly protagonist becoming entangled with the antics of four teenagers in Wigan - this is a story about love, love lost and how you never stop growing up. Barnett has a distinct style in writing relationships both between friends and familial; it is quite clear how the old adage of you cannot choose your family has never rung more true.
Barnett is a cinema junkie, and his love of classic British and Hollywood films are worn proudly on his sleeve. From Its A Wonderful Life with the plot taking place over Christmas, to having the film take place in a mining town evoking Brassed Off and the youngsters wanting to be in a band to leave the deadbeat cul-de-sac of life.
A great read that will be devoured by fans of his most recent books and ones who are coming to him afresh.
Barnett is a cinema junkie, and his love of classic British and Hollywood films are worn proudly on his sleeve. From Its A Wonderful Life with the plot taking place over Christmas, to having the film take place in a mining town evoking Brassed Off and the youngsters wanting to be in a band to leave the deadbeat cul-de-sac of life.
A great read that will be devoured by fans of his most recent books and ones who are coming to him afresh.
June 2, 2021
What a lovely book absolutely packed with heart. It has love and loss, despair and hope, friendship and cruelty. It had the lot!
It also made me reflect on the social inequalities that sadly still exist; it is so important that we never assume and never underestimate what anyone has to offer to this world.
I love the characters and the way in which they come together. I love the cross generational element and the way that the four teenagers found each other when it was most needed. There was several stories running throughout the book and each one was strong in its own right. I love the strength in all of the characters but I loved the fact that they were stronger together. This book was about discovery in more ways than one and it was both endearing and moving.
It also made me reflect on the social inequalities that sadly still exist; it is so important that we never assume and never underestimate what anyone has to offer to this world.
I love the characters and the way in which they come together. I love the cross generational element and the way that the four teenagers found each other when it was most needed. There was several stories running throughout the book and each one was strong in its own right. I love the strength in all of the characters but I loved the fact that they were stronger together. This book was about discovery in more ways than one and it was both endearing and moving.
January 15, 2023
This was OK. Maybe closer to a four star than three, but didn’t quite hit the spot for me.
It’s about a man, grieving for his wife, and some young teens looking to prove they can succeed by forming a band.
The message in the book is very heavy handed, though does stop half a step shy of preachy. I doubt those who needed to receive the message made it to the end, but one never knows.
An easy read. I imagine it making a good short film. That might reach a few who might benefit from the lesson it’s teaching. Good luck with that, though. The real life EFAF crowd might be more likely to watch a TV drama than read a book, but, from what I can tell, they’re often firmly entrenched in their beliefs.
It’s about a man, grieving for his wife, and some young teens looking to prove they can succeed by forming a band.
The message in the book is very heavy handed, though does stop half a step shy of preachy. I doubt those who needed to receive the message made it to the end, but one never knows.
An easy read. I imagine it making a good short film. That might reach a few who might benefit from the lesson it’s teaching. Good luck with that, though. The real life EFAF crowd might be more likely to watch a TV drama than read a book, but, from what I can tell, they’re often firmly entrenched in their beliefs.
September 30, 2019
In the mid 90s on a rundown council estate, four kids, picked on at school and expecting a dismal future, come together unexpectedly and form a band.
Their biggest supporter is Arthur Calderbank, a widower living in the shell of an old chapel in the middle of the cemetery where his beloved wife Molly is buried. With the prospect of his chapel being demolished to create a refugee shelter, Arthur soon finds himself being used as an excuse for right wing protests.
Packed with feisty characters, the story is sad, sweet, recognisable and touching. I did find the ending somewhat contrived, and found it hard to remember which of the teenage girls was which, but an enjoyable read nonetheless.
Their biggest supporter is Arthur Calderbank, a widower living in the shell of an old chapel in the middle of the cemetery where his beloved wife Molly is buried. With the prospect of his chapel being demolished to create a refugee shelter, Arthur soon finds himself being used as an excuse for right wing protests.
Packed with feisty characters, the story is sad, sweet, recognisable and touching. I did find the ending somewhat contrived, and found it hard to remember which of the teenage girls was which, but an enjoyable read nonetheless.
November 15, 2019
I adored this so much, it’s uplifting, heartbreaking, touching, addictive reading. It’s a million emotions rolled into one amazing story. I loved how it crossed the generations, how it showed that over 20 years on most the issues in the book are still being faced , it’s set in the 90s so for me nostalgia trip. It’s a fabulous, thoroughly well written heartwarming read. Highly recommended
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
November 30, 2019
I loved this poignant and heartwarming book. It made me smile, almost moved to tears and i think it's one of those book that can help you to see the silver lining even when it's raining.
I loved the well thought cast of characters, Arthur above all, the great storytelling, the engrossing and entertaining plot.
It's the first book I read by this author and won't surely be the last.
Strongly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
I loved the well thought cast of characters, Arthur above all, the great storytelling, the engrossing and entertaining plot.
It's the first book I read by this author and won't surely be the last.
Strongly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
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