What do you think?
Rate this book
Abernathy & Crane #1
Unlikely Friends
Irwin is not only the local Librarian; he’s also a book snob and an all-around grouch. There’s nothing he values more than his privacy. As a loner, he’s happy to be surrounded by books instead of subjected to the incessant blatherings of dysfunctional people.The one thing Irwin despises more than people is change. He’s content in his predictable, routine existence…until a young girl barrels her way into his dreary life and turns it upside down.Harper is witty, smart, free-spirited—but most of all, stubborn. Baffled by her need to gain his friendship, Irwin does his best to brush her off, but Harper refuses to budge. In fact, it only makes her latch onto him even more. Friendship, after all, can be found in the most unusual places.
301 pages, Paperback
Published February 11, 2019
89 people are currently reading
170 people want to read
About the author
Sahar Abdulaziz
21 books90 followers2025 Winner: Fofky’s Reader’s Choice Award, Thriller category
2025 The Bookfest Awards Fall 2025 Second Place Fiction-Humor-Relationships
2025 The Bookfest Awards Fall 2025 Second Place, Fiction-Detective-Amateur Sleuths
2025 Finalist: The Book Excellence Award
2023 Finalist: Best Thriller Book Awards
2023 Semifinalist: Mystery, The Best of Indie 12th Annual Kindle Book Awards
2022 Winner, Firebird Book Award
2020 Finalist in The Wishing Shelf Book Award
2019 Winner of the Daybreak Press Book Award for Muslim Fiction
2019: Essay Winner, Women in Scrutiny Anthology; Brooklyn Girls Books
2019 Finalist in The Wishing Shelf Book Award
2019: Winner, Fofky’s Reader’s Choice Award
2016 Winner of the Community Written Expression Award
2016 Winner, AAN Sistah Chat Radio Women of Distinction Award
2016 Winner, Monroe County Image Awards Sistah Chat Radio Media Communication
“Abdulaziz is a master at crafting a thriller paced by truth.”
Suspense writer Sahar Abdulaziz is the author of seventeen books—including, But You LOOK Just Fine, The Broken Half, Tight Rope, Secrets That Find Us, The Gatekeeper’s Notebook, Unlikely Friends, Devoted Friends, Unexpected Friends, Forever Friends, Who Killed Gary?, Ashes, Dust, Who Killed Gary?; and her most recent, 2025 release: Who Killed Karen? Most of her work is in realistic fiction: psychological thrillers, suspense, and satire. She writes about characters facing complicated life challenges and is determined to tell their stories, eager to put pen to paper to share their compelling accounts.
Rep’d by Shaggy Dog Publications
2025 The Bookfest Awards Fall 2025 Second Place Fiction-Humor-Relationships
2025 The Bookfest Awards Fall 2025 Second Place, Fiction-Detective-Amateur Sleuths
2025 Finalist: The Book Excellence Award
2023 Finalist: Best Thriller Book Awards
2023 Semifinalist: Mystery, The Best of Indie 12th Annual Kindle Book Awards
2022 Winner, Firebird Book Award
2020 Finalist in The Wishing Shelf Book Award
2019 Winner of the Daybreak Press Book Award for Muslim Fiction
2019: Essay Winner, Women in Scrutiny Anthology; Brooklyn Girls Books
2019 Finalist in The Wishing Shelf Book Award
2019: Winner, Fofky’s Reader’s Choice Award
2016 Winner of the Community Written Expression Award
2016 Winner, AAN Sistah Chat Radio Women of Distinction Award
2016 Winner, Monroe County Image Awards Sistah Chat Radio Media Communication
“Abdulaziz is a master at crafting a thriller paced by truth.”
Suspense writer Sahar Abdulaziz is the author of seventeen books—including, But You LOOK Just Fine, The Broken Half, Tight Rope, Secrets That Find Us, The Gatekeeper’s Notebook, Unlikely Friends, Devoted Friends, Unexpected Friends, Forever Friends, Who Killed Gary?, Ashes, Dust, Who Killed Gary?; and her most recent, 2025 release: Who Killed Karen? Most of her work is in realistic fiction: psychological thrillers, suspense, and satire. She writes about characters facing complicated life challenges and is determined to tell their stories, eager to put pen to paper to share their compelling accounts.
Rep’d by Shaggy Dog Publications
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
February 15, 2019
I truly enjoyed this story of a couple of introverts who find each other. Together they are able to help each other in their lives. I highly recommend this book as a perfect read for whenever you get the urge to enjoy a book.
Read
September 18, 2019Irwin is the local librarian and grouch. He has spent years isolating himself from people and following a predictable routine after a tragedy changed his life forever.
Enter Harper Crane, a stubborn teenager who has her heart set on building a friendship with grouchy Irwin. The more Irwin resists, the more Harper pushes herself into his life. Her life has not be an easy one and Irwin quickly realizes she has experienced pain and tragedy also.
The two form an unlikely bond that helps them cope with both their past and current problems.
Readers are also introduced to Harper's parents and Irwin's friend Cornelia as the story follows their alternating perspectives.
While Unlikely Friends does have trigger warnings for drug use, domestic violence, and a brief insinuation of sexual abuse of a child; this is ultimately a heartwarming story full of realistic and relatable characters struggling with common but rarely discussed issues like loneliness, grief, and addiction.
Unlikely Friends is a cozy read to give you all the fuzzy feelings when you need a feel-good story. I recommend it to fans of Fredrik Backman and Phaedra Patrick.
Many thanks to the author for providing me with a copy. I was under no obligation to review this book.
For more reviews, visit www.rootsandreads.wordpress.com
Enter Harper Crane, a stubborn teenager who has her heart set on building a friendship with grouchy Irwin. The more Irwin resists, the more Harper pushes herself into his life. Her life has not be an easy one and Irwin quickly realizes she has experienced pain and tragedy also.
The two form an unlikely bond that helps them cope with both their past and current problems.
Readers are also introduced to Harper's parents and Irwin's friend Cornelia as the story follows their alternating perspectives.
While Unlikely Friends does have trigger warnings for drug use, domestic violence, and a brief insinuation of sexual abuse of a child; this is ultimately a heartwarming story full of realistic and relatable characters struggling with common but rarely discussed issues like loneliness, grief, and addiction.
Unlikely Friends is a cozy read to give you all the fuzzy feelings when you need a feel-good story. I recommend it to fans of Fredrik Backman and Phaedra Patrick.
Many thanks to the author for providing me with a copy. I was under no obligation to review this book.
For more reviews, visit www.rootsandreads.wordpress.com
February 23, 2019
Such a moving tale of the power of friendship and how your greatest friend can be found where you least expect it.
My Rating: 5 stars
My Rating: 5 stars
July 11, 2019
What a beautiful story! Truly.
If this were to be made into a movie, it would be PERFECT for the Lifetime Movie Network or even the Hallmark Channel.
It's one of those stories that leaves you smiling, feeling content with how everything unfolded. It's a story that makes you truly FEEL all the emotions as you turn the pages. I smiled, I got teary-eyed, I felt heartbroken, I laughed, and overall, I felt fully engrossed in these characters and their lives.
Irwin was a grouch, yes, but he had every right to be. Life had not been kind to him the last few years and he'd experience the kind of heartbreak nobody wants to ever go through. I felt for him, and more so, I was happy he had Cornelia (and BONES!!), and later on, Harper.
Harper needed Irwin just as much as Irwin needed Harper. For such a young girl, Harper had a tough life too. Her pain was quite different from Irwin's but just as impactful. While Olivia, Harper's mom, was trying hard to give Harper a good life, things were just...rough. So much had happened already that made their climb out of the hole a steep one.
Harper would spend her days at the library where Irwin worked, simply because she had nothing else to do and nowhere else to be, so that's how they met. She became intrigued by him and she definitely liked pushing his buttons. Utterly confused and irritated, Irwin started discussing his situation regarding Harper with his neighbor and friend, Cornelia, (among others – you will see what I mean when you read the book) and he realized, Harper was just lonely. Loneliness recognizes loneliness, and quickly thereafter, they developed a special bond, one almost like that between a father and daughter.
I truly loved Irwin's character and was elated to see him come out of his shell. I also really enjoyed his banter with Cornelia, and heck, even Bones, LOL!
Harper's wittiness was hilarious too and she never missed a beat! That girl sure was clever and sassy.
I am so glad I bought this book. This is my first book by this author but it won't be my last!
Five Stars and a Top 2019 Fave!!
PS – this is NOT a romance novel. It's a story about two lost souls finding their way in life. :)
If this were to be made into a movie, it would be PERFECT for the Lifetime Movie Network or even the Hallmark Channel.
It's one of those stories that leaves you smiling, feeling content with how everything unfolded. It's a story that makes you truly FEEL all the emotions as you turn the pages. I smiled, I got teary-eyed, I felt heartbroken, I laughed, and overall, I felt fully engrossed in these characters and their lives.
Irwin was a grouch, yes, but he had every right to be. Life had not been kind to him the last few years and he'd experience the kind of heartbreak nobody wants to ever go through. I felt for him, and more so, I was happy he had Cornelia (and BONES!!), and later on, Harper.
Harper needed Irwin just as much as Irwin needed Harper. For such a young girl, Harper had a tough life too. Her pain was quite different from Irwin's but just as impactful. While Olivia, Harper's mom, was trying hard to give Harper a good life, things were just...rough. So much had happened already that made their climb out of the hole a steep one.
Harper would spend her days at the library where Irwin worked, simply because she had nothing else to do and nowhere else to be, so that's how they met. She became intrigued by him and she definitely liked pushing his buttons. Utterly confused and irritated, Irwin started discussing his situation regarding Harper with his neighbor and friend, Cornelia, (among others – you will see what I mean when you read the book) and he realized, Harper was just lonely. Loneliness recognizes loneliness, and quickly thereafter, they developed a special bond, one almost like that between a father and daughter.
I truly loved Irwin's character and was elated to see him come out of his shell. I also really enjoyed his banter with Cornelia, and heck, even Bones, LOL!
Harper's wittiness was hilarious too and she never missed a beat! That girl sure was clever and sassy.
I am so glad I bought this book. This is my first book by this author but it won't be my last!
Five Stars and a Top 2019 Fave!!
PS – this is NOT a romance novel. It's a story about two lost souls finding their way in life. :)
February 27, 2020
We could all use a guardian angel like Irwin in our lives
I would recommend this book as a light hearted just for fun read. It feels good to know that there are happy endings. That even in tragedy, you can find goodness , if you open your eyes and heart to receive if. Within every person lived g oodness.
I would recommend this book as a light hearted just for fun read. It feels good to know that there are happy endings. That even in tragedy, you can find goodness , if you open your eyes and heart to receive if. Within every person lived g oodness.
May 13, 2019
Irwin is an “aging librarian, who was close to retirement”. He prefers “to exist between the pages of his books, exploring new worlds without the threat of heartache, loss, and personal catastrophe”. Fifteen-year-old Harper spends her spare time at the library, her escape from “The old dilapidated house she called home, with its sagging porch and peeled paint, could have easily been mistaken for abandoned”. She lives there with her mother Olivia. Her father Darren has just been released from prison after serving six years, and Harper’s not happy. Flashbacks reveal what happened six years ago when he was arrested on a number of drug-related charges.
When Irwin finds out about Harper’s troubled family life, he sets out to help her out with the assistance of his neighbor Cornelia. Christopher, the young man Irwin meets at the cemetery, is the sixth member of this group of unlikely friends.
The story is told from the viewpoints of Irwin, Harper, Olivia, Cornelia, and Darren, but there’s some crossover, with things mentioned that that person doesn’t “see”. I love the eccentric Cornelia and Bones the cat (“He sees and understands everything.”) and was half-expecting there to be a chapter from his viewpoint (I would have enjoyed that). But the appearance of Chris about 80% of the way into the book was forced and unnecessary, and he is the only one of the “friends” who doesn’t have a section of the book told from his viewpoint.
Unfortunately, the book tries to be humorous but mostly falls flat. It is also repetitive, with too much recounting of events to other characters and too much telling and not enough showing. The cover - while gorgeous and the thing that made me want to read this book - doesn’t suit the genre. In addition, there are numerous editing errors and it all wraps up a bit too quickly in the end.
Disappointing.
Warnings: coarse language, drug use, domestic violence.
I received this book in return for an honest review.
Full blog post: https://www.booksdirectonline.com/201...
When Irwin finds out about Harper’s troubled family life, he sets out to help her out with the assistance of his neighbor Cornelia. Christopher, the young man Irwin meets at the cemetery, is the sixth member of this group of unlikely friends.
The story is told from the viewpoints of Irwin, Harper, Olivia, Cornelia, and Darren, but there’s some crossover, with things mentioned that that person doesn’t “see”. I love the eccentric Cornelia and Bones the cat (“He sees and understands everything.”) and was half-expecting there to be a chapter from his viewpoint (I would have enjoyed that). But the appearance of Chris about 80% of the way into the book was forced and unnecessary, and he is the only one of the “friends” who doesn’t have a section of the book told from his viewpoint.
Unfortunately, the book tries to be humorous but mostly falls flat. It is also repetitive, with too much recounting of events to other characters and too much telling and not enough showing. The cover - while gorgeous and the thing that made me want to read this book - doesn’t suit the genre. In addition, there are numerous editing errors and it all wraps up a bit too quickly in the end.
Disappointing.
Warnings: coarse language, drug use, domestic violence.
I received this book in return for an honest review.
Full blog post: https://www.booksdirectonline.com/201...
February 17, 2019
A Great Book filled with Unforgettable Characters
Where to begin? As I was reading Unlikely Friends, my mind went to the quote from Henry David Thoreau, “The mass of men lead lives of quiet desperation.” While I’m not sure I agree with that sentiment, I would say the mass of humanity lead lives of isolation. I believe Abdulaziz has created characters that are ordinary people, people we pass on the street or drive past in a car, or see in a store. Or in a library. People who deal with the same difficulties we all do: loneliness, sometimes desperation, loss, grief, facing hard battles at times with illness and addiction.
This may not seem like a premise for a book filled with humor and love, but it’s all there. I laughed through the entire first chapter when I met the unforgettable Irwin Abernathy, librarian (in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania). Irwin is the epitome of the crochety, sarcastic, easily annoyed older man who always has a snide thought which he sometimes verbalizes. You can’t help but like Irwin, and as you get to know him, you love him. You learn about his loss, his humanity, his goodness. His capacity to love.
Harper Crane is a sad, lonely, teenage girl, living in near poverty with her mother Olivia, a recovering and remorseful drug addict. Olivia is doing her best to provide for her daughter and regain her trust. Harper’s father Darren, a man with a troubled past who has recently been released from jail, appears on the scene and almost sends Harper over the edge.
What connects these two unlikely friends, Irwin and Harper? The public library. Books are Irwin’s passion. The library is Harper’s refuge. The two are kindred spirits and Harper sees in Irwin an adult she can trust … something she hasn’t had in her life.
Family isn’t always determined by blood. Sometimes the strongest families are made up of people who are drawn to each other for many reasons. Irwin begins to see Harper as the daughter he never had. She sees him as the father she wishes she had. It’s the beginning of a family, and others are drawn into it—Olivia, Darren, Irwin’s neighbor Cornelia and her cat Bones, who is an important personage—as the story progresses. Love begins to grow, and people begin to change.
This is a truly heartwarming story, beautifully written. Abdulaziz is an admirable wordsmith who paints vivid pictures with her prose. I loved reading this truism: “sometimes all we get to keep in this life are our memories.” The story flows and we’re drawn into it. It’s a difficult book to put down and probably one of the best books I’ve ever read. The quietly desperate people in this story gradually become people filled with hope and strength.
Where to begin? As I was reading Unlikely Friends, my mind went to the quote from Henry David Thoreau, “The mass of men lead lives of quiet desperation.” While I’m not sure I agree with that sentiment, I would say the mass of humanity lead lives of isolation. I believe Abdulaziz has created characters that are ordinary people, people we pass on the street or drive past in a car, or see in a store. Or in a library. People who deal with the same difficulties we all do: loneliness, sometimes desperation, loss, grief, facing hard battles at times with illness and addiction.
This may not seem like a premise for a book filled with humor and love, but it’s all there. I laughed through the entire first chapter when I met the unforgettable Irwin Abernathy, librarian (in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania). Irwin is the epitome of the crochety, sarcastic, easily annoyed older man who always has a snide thought which he sometimes verbalizes. You can’t help but like Irwin, and as you get to know him, you love him. You learn about his loss, his humanity, his goodness. His capacity to love.
Harper Crane is a sad, lonely, teenage girl, living in near poverty with her mother Olivia, a recovering and remorseful drug addict. Olivia is doing her best to provide for her daughter and regain her trust. Harper’s father Darren, a man with a troubled past who has recently been released from jail, appears on the scene and almost sends Harper over the edge.
What connects these two unlikely friends, Irwin and Harper? The public library. Books are Irwin’s passion. The library is Harper’s refuge. The two are kindred spirits and Harper sees in Irwin an adult she can trust … something she hasn’t had in her life.
Family isn’t always determined by blood. Sometimes the strongest families are made up of people who are drawn to each other for many reasons. Irwin begins to see Harper as the daughter he never had. She sees him as the father she wishes she had. It’s the beginning of a family, and others are drawn into it—Olivia, Darren, Irwin’s neighbor Cornelia and her cat Bones, who is an important personage—as the story progresses. Love begins to grow, and people begin to change.
This is a truly heartwarming story, beautifully written. Abdulaziz is an admirable wordsmith who paints vivid pictures with her prose. I loved reading this truism: “sometimes all we get to keep in this life are our memories.” The story flows and we’re drawn into it. It’s a difficult book to put down and probably one of the best books I’ve ever read. The quietly desperate people in this story gradually become people filled with hope and strength.
March 23, 2020
I'm sure you've heard people say 'friends are the family you choose.' Well, Sahar Abdelaziz has definitely heard that and she has proven it through her story Unlikely Friends. The character line up of Unlikely friends are people that I can imagine meeting in the world around me. These characters are full of complexity. Their joys and sorrows play out on the page and in your mind.
We start the story meeting Irwin Abernathy. The best way to describe Irwin is curmudgeonly. He is a librarian who lives his life separate and alone. He seems to not want to add any more complications to his already overly complicated existence and yet no one really knows just how complex it is. His simplicity and maybe his comfort in his existence caught the eye of a young high school girl.
Harper's life is complicated, to say the least. The library is her safe haven. She runs there whenever she needs to find peace. It's funny, when I was young, I spent so much time in the library. I knew that reading was my sanctuary. I know so many people that have the same experience. Irwin is the anchor, he is the centerpiece of sanity that her life lacks.
Irwin actually takes that position in so many people's lives. He is the type of person many of us would like to be. He has created a family in an otherwise lonely existence. He thinks of these people first and puts them above his own needs. He plans and puts one and one together so that the future is secure for his chosen family.
Unlikely Friends is a perfectly heartwarming read. Sahar Abdelaziz has masterfully written a story that has wormed its way into my heart.
We start the story meeting Irwin Abernathy. The best way to describe Irwin is curmudgeonly. He is a librarian who lives his life separate and alone. He seems to not want to add any more complications to his already overly complicated existence and yet no one really knows just how complex it is. His simplicity and maybe his comfort in his existence caught the eye of a young high school girl.
Harper's life is complicated, to say the least. The library is her safe haven. She runs there whenever she needs to find peace. It's funny, when I was young, I spent so much time in the library. I knew that reading was my sanctuary. I know so many people that have the same experience. Irwin is the anchor, he is the centerpiece of sanity that her life lacks.
Irwin actually takes that position in so many people's lives. He is the type of person many of us would like to be. He has created a family in an otherwise lonely existence. He thinks of these people first and puts them above his own needs. He plans and puts one and one together so that the future is secure for his chosen family.
Unlikely Friends is a perfectly heartwarming read. Sahar Abdelaziz has masterfully written a story that has wormed its way into my heart.
September 1, 2020
This book was entered in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: Unlikely Friends
Author: Sahar-Abdulaziz
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 17
Stats
Editing: 9/10
Writing Style: 10/10
Content: 9/10
Cover: 9/10
Of the 17 readers:
17 would read another book by this author.
16 thought the cover was good or excellent.
17 felt it was easy to follow.
17 would recommend this story to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 6 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
Of all the readers, 11 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
16 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
17 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
‘What a wonderful book. I loved the grumpy Irwin – he reminded me of my husband! Very funny and very sweet. Also, it looks at important problems such as loneliness.’ Female reader, age 54
‘This author is very gifted. She’s able to tell a story filled with ‘normal’ characters and make it deliciously entertaining. I will be reading more of her books.’ Female reader, aged 39
‘An engaging story about two very different people thrown together - in a library! Irwin and Harper’s love of books is a constant in this story of hardship and battling (mental) demons. The story has excellent pacing, solid characterization, and a cleverly plotted storyline. Very impressed!’ Male reader, aged 53
‘Love this book. Funny, heartening; a fabulous read.’ Female reader, aged 49
To Sum It Up:
‘The gripping story of two broken characters thrown together. A FINALIST and highly recommended,’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
Title: Unlikely Friends
Author: Sahar-Abdulaziz
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 17
Stats
Editing: 9/10
Writing Style: 10/10
Content: 9/10
Cover: 9/10
Of the 17 readers:
17 would read another book by this author.
16 thought the cover was good or excellent.
17 felt it was easy to follow.
17 would recommend this story to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 6 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
Of all the readers, 11 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
16 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
17 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
‘What a wonderful book. I loved the grumpy Irwin – he reminded me of my husband! Very funny and very sweet. Also, it looks at important problems such as loneliness.’ Female reader, age 54
‘This author is very gifted. She’s able to tell a story filled with ‘normal’ characters and make it deliciously entertaining. I will be reading more of her books.’ Female reader, aged 39
‘An engaging story about two very different people thrown together - in a library! Irwin and Harper’s love of books is a constant in this story of hardship and battling (mental) demons. The story has excellent pacing, solid characterization, and a cleverly plotted storyline. Very impressed!’ Male reader, aged 53
‘Love this book. Funny, heartening; a fabulous read.’ Female reader, aged 49
To Sum It Up:
‘The gripping story of two broken characters thrown together. A FINALIST and highly recommended,’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
Want to read
July 2, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (7/2/2019)! 🎁
July 30, 2020
I enjoyed this more than I thought. Cast right, would be an enjoyable movie.
July 22, 2019
I enjoyed this story immensely. It was a page turner that had me laughing and a little nervous at times. All characters were great together.
September 10, 2020
If ever there was a way to describe the characters of Unlikely Friends, one may say "A motley crew".
These characters are so different how did they ever get together, so much so, they have made themselves a Family.
You will cry and you will laugh, but either way, you will shed tears!!
I highly recommend this book!!
These characters are so different how did they ever get together, so much so, they have made themselves a Family.
You will cry and you will laugh, but either way, you will shed tears!!
I highly recommend this book!!
February 21, 2019
Oh, my goodness … where do I start? There wasn’t a single thing I didn’t love about this book! The whimsical cover caught my eye, drew me in, and I was quite content to study it for several minutes while contemplating the tag line: “No matter how old you are, it’s never too late to heal.” I was hooked before I ever got to the first page.
Abdulaziz has indeed written a whimsical tale full of sarcastic wit, snappy dialogue, laughter and lively characters. But life isn’t always whimsical, and this talented author has woven together a beautiful narrative centered on Irwin, a curmudgeonly older librarian, and Harper Leigh, a spirited, stubborn fifteen-year-old girl. (Extra points to the author from this reader for gifting this beautiful girl such a fitting and memorable name.) Each of them has a past that has left them in pain, and with more than a little skepticism about the way of the world. This book touches on substance abuse, poverty, anger and loss … but it’s also bursting with hope, humor and the powerful belief that people are capable of showering others with an amazing amount of kindness and love.
I am pleasantly surprised by how much this novel has affected me. I have been touched by many of the circumstances the characters in this tale are faced with. I cannot imagine a single person reading this novel not feeling a sort of kinship to at least one of the people portrayed within its pages. I absolutely loved this book, and as odd as it sounds, I feel as though I am a better person for having read it.
Abdulaziz has indeed written a whimsical tale full of sarcastic wit, snappy dialogue, laughter and lively characters. But life isn’t always whimsical, and this talented author has woven together a beautiful narrative centered on Irwin, a curmudgeonly older librarian, and Harper Leigh, a spirited, stubborn fifteen-year-old girl. (Extra points to the author from this reader for gifting this beautiful girl such a fitting and memorable name.) Each of them has a past that has left them in pain, and with more than a little skepticism about the way of the world. This book touches on substance abuse, poverty, anger and loss … but it’s also bursting with hope, humor and the powerful belief that people are capable of showering others with an amazing amount of kindness and love.
I am pleasantly surprised by how much this novel has affected me. I have been touched by many of the circumstances the characters in this tale are faced with. I cannot imagine a single person reading this novel not feeling a sort of kinship to at least one of the people portrayed within its pages. I absolutely loved this book, and as odd as it sounds, I feel as though I am a better person for having read it.
May 29, 2019
"Each evening the girl selected a different book to place on the side table next to her chair, evidently left for him to find. Tucked inside he’d find an insufferable message, penned in chicken scratch on bright yellow sticky notepaper. The first one read, ‘It wouldn’t kill you to smile more.’ The second, ‘I heard somebody call you ‘Irwin.’ Please help me sleep at night—tell me that’s not your real name.’"
I really enjoyed the friendship between Irwin and Harper. Loneliness and heartbreak do not have an age limit and the author does a great job of drawing the reader into their lives. All the characters are imperfect, but willing to improve their situations and make their lives better.
"Harper recognized a lie when she heard it, especially since she frequently told the same one many times, but living poor did that. It made you fib to save face, pretending indifference when hungry or cold."
This fast-paced, character-driven story set in the Poconos is told in several voices which actually adds perspective for the reader on how the characters tick. The plot is original and hard to put down.
The themes include family dynamics, friendship, dealing with grief, compassion, courage, determination, and overcoming obstacles. Triggers include drug abuse.
I highly recommend this book and hope to read more books by Ms. Abdulaziz.
More book reviews at The Eclectic Review
I really enjoyed the friendship between Irwin and Harper. Loneliness and heartbreak do not have an age limit and the author does a great job of drawing the reader into their lives. All the characters are imperfect, but willing to improve their situations and make their lives better.
"Harper recognized a lie when she heard it, especially since she frequently told the same one many times, but living poor did that. It made you fib to save face, pretending indifference when hungry or cold."
This fast-paced, character-driven story set in the Poconos is told in several voices which actually adds perspective for the reader on how the characters tick. The plot is original and hard to put down.
The themes include family dynamics, friendship, dealing with grief, compassion, courage, determination, and overcoming obstacles. Triggers include drug abuse.
I highly recommend this book and hope to read more books by Ms. Abdulaziz.
More book reviews at The Eclectic Review
March 24, 2019
There are not many books that make me fall a little in love on the very first page, but Unlikely Friends did exactly that. I was immediately drawn to Irwin and his grumpy but unintentionally funny ways. I also immediately liked Harper, even though she was an angsty teen. Reading their interactions brought a smile to my face, and occasionally made me laugh out loud. While not all of the characters are completely fleshed out, this is actually a short book and you get enough to care for them all.
There is love and grief and sadness and healing. Of course, all of this involving a library and a fat cat named Bones had me seeing hearts even more. There were some things that were hinted to and glossed over, though that may be for the best. It would have been even better if they were left out completely, but it did not take away from the story at all. Unlikely Friends is truly a feel-good book. I highly recommend it!
There is love and grief and sadness and healing. Of course, all of this involving a library and a fat cat named Bones had me seeing hearts even more. There were some things that were hinted to and glossed over, though that may be for the best. It would have been even better if they were left out completely, but it did not take away from the story at all. Unlikely Friends is truly a feel-good book. I highly recommend it!
April 28, 2019
Abdulaziz's characters are never cardboard cutouts, but real people with real emotions that we care about. Even the "bad guys" are well-rounded and believable. This slice of life may have a happy ending, but that doesn't mean it's free from conflict, tragedy, and parts that make you tear up even when you're trying not to.
Book lovers will appreciate this tale, most of which takes place in a library with a grumpy curmudgeon who is more than he seems. The people of the Poconos who populate the place draw you into the story, about broken people and how each finds a way to heal the others.
I don't usually read stories like this, but Abdulaziz grabbed me in. Quite the page-turner!
Book lovers will appreciate this tale, most of which takes place in a library with a grumpy curmudgeon who is more than he seems. The people of the Poconos who populate the place draw you into the story, about broken people and how each finds a way to heal the others.
I don't usually read stories like this, but Abdulaziz grabbed me in. Quite the page-turner!
February 22, 2019
Everyone needs an Unlikely Friend...
People often enter our lives during times when we don’t even realize we need them. Sahar
Abdulaziz’s latest book, Unlikely Friends, centers on a quirky, lovable cast of characters who find each other and unite to form a bond as strong as any family. The book covers a few difficult topics but will keep you laughing and crying, and falling deeper in love with the grouchy Irwin Abernathy
and sassy teenager, Harper Leigh as they join together to fulfill many unspoken needs.
People often enter our lives during times when we don’t even realize we need them. Sahar
Abdulaziz’s latest book, Unlikely Friends, centers on a quirky, lovable cast of characters who find each other and unite to form a bond as strong as any family. The book covers a few difficult topics but will keep you laughing and crying, and falling deeper in love with the grouchy Irwin Abernathy
and sassy teenager, Harper Leigh as they join together to fulfill many unspoken needs.
February 19, 2019
Wow...Wow...Wow! I simply loved it. I loved Irwin for many reasons, and I also loved the rest of the characters too. They are truly relate-able folks. One character that you won't forget is Darren. I laughed, I cried and I somewhat healed in the process alhamdullilah. Abdulaziz's works while highlighting important social ills also show the humanity in the human race. Well done!
Now, this book and another one make me want to eat some Baked Ziti!
Now, this book and another one make me want to eat some Baked Ziti!
October 10, 2019
Heartwarming
Strangers putting aside their prejudice and fear to help one another and to heal. That is the kind of story that gives a reader hope. Unlikely Friends is that kind of story. Just like the title suggests., one person can change the lives of others and in so doing that person's life is also changed. Irwin lost people but because he let in a young girl in need, he gained a family. Kudos to Miss Abdulaziz for another wonderful book.
Strangers putting aside their prejudice and fear to help one another and to heal. That is the kind of story that gives a reader hope. Unlikely Friends is that kind of story. Just like the title suggests., one person can change the lives of others and in so doing that person's life is also changed. Irwin lost people but because he let in a young girl in need, he gained a family. Kudos to Miss Abdulaziz for another wonderful book.
March 9, 2019
This book shows that the most unlikely people can become friends and family.
Irwin who acts like he doesn't want to be around people, turns into a prince charming just about.
Harper a teenage girl tilts Irwin's world on it's axis. They are opposite yet just alike. Harper's world comes crashing down and Irwin is there to pick up the pieces. These two really are the most unlikely of friends.
Great read, you get the back story of every character. Touches day to day life.
Irwin who acts like he doesn't want to be around people, turns into a prince charming just about.
Harper a teenage girl tilts Irwin's world on it's axis. They are opposite yet just alike. Harper's world comes crashing down and Irwin is there to pick up the pieces. These two really are the most unlikely of friends.
Great read, you get the back story of every character. Touches day to day life.
January 5, 2020
An unforgettable story and my first read of 2020.
Two unique people—one old—one young form an unbreakable bond of trust and love. Little did they know, they would invite a friend, a mother, and a father to become a small family.
Irwin Abernathy, a librarian, is a cranky, sarcastic, older man, who has no desire to endure the shenanigans Harper Crane, a teenage girl, who seeks refuge in the library after her school-day.
Both of these characters have seen or lived through their significant share of loss, grief, illness, loneliness, and addiction. Together, they overcome the injustices of the world around them.
Abdulaziz weaves a beautifully written, heartwarming story and introduces us to her character’s, who were once filled with despair and are now embracing hope of a better future.
I highly recommend reading Unlikely Friends.
Two unique people—one old—one young form an unbreakable bond of trust and love. Little did they know, they would invite a friend, a mother, and a father to become a small family.
Irwin Abernathy, a librarian, is a cranky, sarcastic, older man, who has no desire to endure the shenanigans Harper Crane, a teenage girl, who seeks refuge in the library after her school-day.
Both of these characters have seen or lived through their significant share of loss, grief, illness, loneliness, and addiction. Together, they overcome the injustices of the world around them.
Abdulaziz weaves a beautifully written, heartwarming story and introduces us to her character’s, who were once filled with despair and are now embracing hope of a better future.
I highly recommend reading Unlikely Friends.
September 19, 2020
Harper and Irwin
Harper was a lonely teenager girl who sought refuge in the library. Irwin worked in that library and was so grumpy that nearly no one liked him. Two unlikely friends that stumbled into each other's lives.
Harper was a lonely teenager girl who sought refuge in the library. Irwin worked in that library and was so grumpy that nearly no one liked him. Two unlikely friends that stumbled into each other's lives.
February 26, 2019
A great story.
March 8, 2019
It's a cute story about not judging people too quickly. Nicely paced, bits of humour.
December 30, 2019
Friends and Family
Unlikely Friends has been an amazing book to read page after page. If you like family, drama and friendship this is the book for you to pick up.
Unlikely Friends has been an amazing book to read page after page. If you like family, drama and friendship this is the book for you to pick up.
February 2, 2020
A feel good read
I just finished Unlikely Friends. The characters were all so different yet they managed to come together. The book tells a heartwarming story without any bad language or sexual situations. I think the story would make a good Hallmark movie.
I just finished Unlikely Friends. The characters were all so different yet they managed to come together. The book tells a heartwarming story without any bad language or sexual situations. I think the story would make a good Hallmark movie.
April 17, 2020
Loved Unlikely Friends. It's a funny, heart-warming, emotional rollercoaster of a book that will keep you hooked until the last page. Highly recommend!
June 14, 2020
A delightful book
I enjoyed this so much! There were challenges that the characters met and overcame.Well worth reading. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
I enjoyed this so much! There were challenges that the characters met and overcame.Well worth reading. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
January 19, 2021
Great weekend read
This was a fascinating story of two people who were totally opposite becoming fast friends/family. I really enjoyed the whole book. It was refreshing :)
This was a fascinating story of two people who were totally opposite becoming fast friends/family. I really enjoyed the whole book. It was refreshing :)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews