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The Wish List
This unmissable, unforgettable book will crack your heart in two and piece it back together again. Have a packet of tissues handy…
Sometimes you have to hit the bottom before you can float to the top.
Maria Birch is seventy years old and, for her, every week is the same.
On Monday, she does her weekly shop. On Tuesday, she goes for a blow-dry. On Wednesday, she visits the laundrette. But Thursday is her favourite day of all – everything hurts less on a Thursday.
Every Thursday Maria walks to her local café. Waiting for her at one of the red gingham-topped tables is Albie Young, a charming man with a twinkle in his eye and an impressive collection of tweed flat caps. Every week, the pair share a slice of marble cake and a pot of tea.
Except, one week, Albie doesn’t turn up.
When Maria finds out what has happened, her perfectly ordered life is ripped apart at the seams. Suddenly, she is very lonely. Without her Thursday friend – her only friend – she no longer has the energy to circle the weekly TV listings, she has no reason to leave her apartment, no reason to laugh.
Then she discovers that Albie isn’t who she thought he was, and she’s left wondering if she knew her friend at all. But Albie has left behind a legacy – a handwritten list of wishes he never got the chance to complete.
Maria is resigned to facing the rest of her days heartbroken and alone. But fulfilling Albie’s wishes could hold the key to her happiness – if only she’s able to look past his secret…
This life-affirming and heartfelt tale is for anyone who has ever looked at their life and wanted more. Fans of Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine and The Keeper of Lost Things will love this poignant story, which shows us that for the truest loves, the end is never really the end…
Sometimes you have to hit the bottom before you can float to the top.
Maria Birch is seventy years old and, for her, every week is the same.
On Monday, she does her weekly shop. On Tuesday, she goes for a blow-dry. On Wednesday, she visits the laundrette. But Thursday is her favourite day of all – everything hurts less on a Thursday.
Every Thursday Maria walks to her local café. Waiting for her at one of the red gingham-topped tables is Albie Young, a charming man with a twinkle in his eye and an impressive collection of tweed flat caps. Every week, the pair share a slice of marble cake and a pot of tea.
Except, one week, Albie doesn’t turn up.
When Maria finds out what has happened, her perfectly ordered life is ripped apart at the seams. Suddenly, she is very lonely. Without her Thursday friend – her only friend – she no longer has the energy to circle the weekly TV listings, she has no reason to leave her apartment, no reason to laugh.
Then she discovers that Albie isn’t who she thought he was, and she’s left wondering if she knew her friend at all. But Albie has left behind a legacy – a handwritten list of wishes he never got the chance to complete.
Maria is resigned to facing the rest of her days heartbroken and alone. But fulfilling Albie’s wishes could hold the key to her happiness – if only she’s able to look past his secret…
This life-affirming and heartfelt tale is for anyone who has ever looked at their life and wanted more. Fans of Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine and The Keeper of Lost Things will love this poignant story, which shows us that for the truest loves, the end is never really the end…
336 pages, ebook
First published November 12, 2019
716 people are currently reading
1188 people want to read
About the author
Ruby Hummingbird
2 books45 followersRuby Hummingbird is a novelist based in the English countryside. She loves nothing more than writing uplifting and heartwarming fiction that gets her readers reaching for the tissues. When she isn't storytelling, she can be found tending to her beloved sunflowers or sipping on hazelnut lattes. "The Wish List of Albie Young" is her debut novel, and her second novel, "The Garden of Lost Memories" will be published by Bookouture in April 2020.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 190 reviews
October 31, 2019
I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from the author, Bookouture, and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Maria always met up with her friend Albie for Tea and cake every Thursday for as long as she remembers. When he fails to come see her, she knows something is wrong. She is in the shock of her life when she finds out that her friend has died and left behind a good samaritan wish list for her to do. Can she fulfill Albie's final wishes through his wish list? Read on and find out for yourself.
This was a pretty good and heart-wrenching read about forgiveness, second chances, and being helpful to others. If you love stories like this, be sure to check this book out when it officially releases to bookstores and Amazon on November 12, 2019.
Maria always met up with her friend Albie for Tea and cake every Thursday for as long as she remembers. When he fails to come see her, she knows something is wrong. She is in the shock of her life when she finds out that her friend has died and left behind a good samaritan wish list for her to do. Can she fulfill Albie's final wishes through his wish list? Read on and find out for yourself.
This was a pretty good and heart-wrenching read about forgiveness, second chances, and being helpful to others. If you love stories like this, be sure to check this book out when it officially releases to bookstores and Amazon on November 12, 2019.
November 15, 2019
If you love feel-good books, this is the perfect choice. The Wish List of Albie Young is a celebration of life, love, and friendship.
Albie dies and leaves behind a list of things he was doing and wanted to do for others. Kind of like a bucket list of tasks. Maria is shocked and saddened by his death, but takes it upon herself to accomplish the remaining items. I know, it sounds like something that has been done before, but it is such a sweet, fresh take on this. Maria is a somewhat timid seventy-year-old woman who reaches outside of her comfort zone to take on these tasks.
The characters are memorable and I was moved to tears a couple of times, especially in the end.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
Albie dies and leaves behind a list of things he was doing and wanted to do for others. Kind of like a bucket list of tasks. Maria is shocked and saddened by his death, but takes it upon herself to accomplish the remaining items. I know, it sounds like something that has been done before, but it is such a sweet, fresh take on this. Maria is a somewhat timid seventy-year-old woman who reaches outside of her comfort zone to take on these tasks.
The characters are memorable and I was moved to tears a couple of times, especially in the end.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
November 13, 2019
Inspirational, heartwarming and uplifting, this delightful debut novel was a joy to read and is one that will linger long after reading.
Seventy-year old Maria Birch lives a solitary life on a rigid routine. The one day she looks forward to, the only day she breaks free of her self-imposed isolation, is Thursdays. On Thursdays, she goes to the local cafe to share a slice of marble cake and a pot of tea with her friend Albie Young. Until the week he doesn’t show. When she learns her beloved friend has passed away Maria is devastated, hiding herself away once more, until she comes across a handwritten note Albie left behind. The note is a wish list of things he wanted to do for others and has some of them ticked off. Maria decides to complete Albie’s wish list to honour her friend and finds herself on a journey of self-discovery she never expected.
This poignant tale started slowly and sadly and I was beginning to wonder when it would start to be the uplifting story I was promised, but I am glad I persevered, and after a while we follow Maria out of the darkness and into a lighter, life-changing time that was deeply moving.
When we meet Maria we see she is a lonely figure and that she lives for her Thursdays with Albie. He’s her only friend and we know she shut herself off from life many years ago after an unknown event that haunts her. She’s been overtaken by a crushing sadness leaving her broken, full of regret and feeling unworthy of love and happiness. We get brief glimpses of happier times in her life that slowly reveal the heartbreaking tragedy she endured and help us understand her actions. For me it made Albie’s death becomes all the more devastating in light of all she has already lost and I was fighting back tears. But Albie’s list gives her a new lease of life. In carrying out the acts of kindness she sees that she is loved, finds joy in human connection and realises she still has a life to be lived to the fullest. I loved this character from the start, the sadness and fear radiating from her made me root for her to find a better life for herself and I was invested in her journey every step of the way.
This was a wonderfully written story about love, loss, kindness, fractured people and what can happen when you bring people together. It reminds us not to wait to tell someone we love them, mend a broken bridge, to follow our dreams and live life to the fullest because we never know what tomorrow may bring. It also shows us that we matter even if we think we don’t and that there are people who love us and miss us in our absence and that we can make a greater impact on those around us than we ever imagined.
The Wish List of Albie Young is a touching, tender, honest and hopeful story that will leave you feeling determined to live your best life and to share a part of “The Albie Effect”.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for my copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Seventy-year old Maria Birch lives a solitary life on a rigid routine. The one day she looks forward to, the only day she breaks free of her self-imposed isolation, is Thursdays. On Thursdays, she goes to the local cafe to share a slice of marble cake and a pot of tea with her friend Albie Young. Until the week he doesn’t show. When she learns her beloved friend has passed away Maria is devastated, hiding herself away once more, until she comes across a handwritten note Albie left behind. The note is a wish list of things he wanted to do for others and has some of them ticked off. Maria decides to complete Albie’s wish list to honour her friend and finds herself on a journey of self-discovery she never expected.
This poignant tale started slowly and sadly and I was beginning to wonder when it would start to be the uplifting story I was promised, but I am glad I persevered, and after a while we follow Maria out of the darkness and into a lighter, life-changing time that was deeply moving.
When we meet Maria we see she is a lonely figure and that she lives for her Thursdays with Albie. He’s her only friend and we know she shut herself off from life many years ago after an unknown event that haunts her. She’s been overtaken by a crushing sadness leaving her broken, full of regret and feeling unworthy of love and happiness. We get brief glimpses of happier times in her life that slowly reveal the heartbreaking tragedy she endured and help us understand her actions. For me it made Albie’s death becomes all the more devastating in light of all she has already lost and I was fighting back tears. But Albie’s list gives her a new lease of life. In carrying out the acts of kindness she sees that she is loved, finds joy in human connection and realises she still has a life to be lived to the fullest. I loved this character from the start, the sadness and fear radiating from her made me root for her to find a better life for herself and I was invested in her journey every step of the way.
This was a wonderfully written story about love, loss, kindness, fractured people and what can happen when you bring people together. It reminds us not to wait to tell someone we love them, mend a broken bridge, to follow our dreams and live life to the fullest because we never know what tomorrow may bring. It also shows us that we matter even if we think we don’t and that there are people who love us and miss us in our absence and that we can make a greater impact on those around us than we ever imagined.
The Wish List of Albie Young is a touching, tender, honest and hopeful story that will leave you feeling determined to live your best life and to share a part of “The Albie Effect”.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for my copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
April 4, 2020
As soon as I read the description for this novel I knew it was one I had to read. It promised to be a wonderful and heartwarming story and it delivered on both counts.
Wow, this is one of those books that I could probably waffle on for hours about how much I loved it. It really was that good. Even then I don’t think it would do it the justice it deserved. My only wish is that I would have loved to have seen a bit of Albie when he was alive. In his passing though, he lives a legacy of which I think a lot of us can learn from. He is one truly remarkable man.
Maria, gosh, what a wonderful character she is. In fact all the characters stand out in their own way in this novel. Each one, making their impression on my heart. Maria to start with is quite a shy, retiring type of lady, keeping herself to herself. Albie’s wish list though sees her coming out of her shell and I felt like a proud mother watching her blossom. I loved getting to know her and the other characters better.
The Wish List is a truly inspiring and endearing read. It left me on a high, wanting to go out and do good in the world. Any book that leaves you feeling like that has to be good in my eyes. There is definitely a lot to be learned from Albie and I think if everyone made more effort to perform acts of kindness each day, even just one, the world would be such a better place. I read the last part of the story through a blur of tears of happiness and what could have been’s. A beautiful story with characters that have stolen my mind and heart.
Wow, this is one of those books that I could probably waffle on for hours about how much I loved it. It really was that good. Even then I don’t think it would do it the justice it deserved. My only wish is that I would have loved to have seen a bit of Albie when he was alive. In his passing though, he lives a legacy of which I think a lot of us can learn from. He is one truly remarkable man.
Maria, gosh, what a wonderful character she is. In fact all the characters stand out in their own way in this novel. Each one, making their impression on my heart. Maria to start with is quite a shy, retiring type of lady, keeping herself to herself. Albie’s wish list though sees her coming out of her shell and I felt like a proud mother watching her blossom. I loved getting to know her and the other characters better.
The Wish List is a truly inspiring and endearing read. It left me on a high, wanting to go out and do good in the world. Any book that leaves you feeling like that has to be good in my eyes. There is definitely a lot to be learned from Albie and I think if everyone made more effort to perform acts of kindness each day, even just one, the world would be such a better place. I read the last part of the story through a blur of tears of happiness and what could have been’s. A beautiful story with characters that have stolen my mind and heart.
November 17, 2019
A fabulous book with all the feels! I loved this book so much and didn't want it to end. When Albie Young dies suddenly the list of his "things to do for others" list is found by his friend Maria, for whom he has left everything to in his will. Maria, heartbroken and in need of a purpose decides to continue on with his list and meets some fabulous people along the way. Perfect time of year for a book like this. I thank Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this delightful book.
February 24, 2020
4.5 stars. What an utterly charming story full of so many life lessons. Maria is an elderly woman, whose life has been made very small by regrets from her past, loneliness and depression. She does not feel she deserves to take up space in this world, and so she hides herself away. She lives a very regimented life. And into that life comes Albie Young, who she meets in cafe. Every Thursday for several years, they meet up for tea and marble cake and companionship. Albie truly sees Maria, and this means so much to her life. One Thursday, Albie does not show up, and her life takes a few unexpected turns as she finds out who Albie really was and the secrets he kept. Maria begins to live her life again, all thanks to Albie, and she finds her place in the world.
This was such a refreshing, heartfelt read, and I recommend it to anyone who just needs some joy and lightness brought into their lives.
This was such a refreshing, heartfelt read, and I recommend it to anyone who just needs some joy and lightness brought into their lives.
November 16, 2019
The debut novel by Ruby Hummingbird is one that will stay with any reader for a lifetime, it is a mesmerising and heart-breaking. I knew just going by the back blurb that this was going to be a tearful and emotional ride, but those few tantalising words at the back of the book really doesn't do this book justice.
This is one of the most tenderly beautiful and heart-warming books I have read, it steals your heart with the simple, yet humbling story of hope, friendship and starting to live life no matter what your age.
70-year-old Maria Birch's life is one of consistency, of habit, of routine. The only highlight is her weekly meet up with her friend; Albie, who she has met for tea every Thursday for the last four years, without fail. She rejoices in her weekly tea and cake with her friend, it perks Maria up and allows her to come out of her home for something other than the weekly shop, Albie is the only friend she has in her pretty lonely life so when one Thursday she goes to meet him as she does every week, only for him not to turn up she is hurt and saddened. Why would her friend just suddenly not meet her? She withdraws into herself, away from the world, you really feel for Maria here, the man she thought of as a friend as failed to meet her, she is at a loss as to what to do and why he didn't show. She all but becomes a recluse, she loses interest in everything, not even wanting to watch TV.
So when she gets a call from a lawyer she receives the most confusing and yet life-changing news about her friend, who wasn't the man who she thought he was, he had a lot of secrets that he had been keeping from her all these years. Albie left a list of wishes which he had never been able to complete, which is when Maria step's in and decides to complete Albie's wish list and in the process she begins to come out of her shell, she re-discovers life and begins to live again and it really is the most beautiful thing watching as this lonely and shy lady starts to find her feet and her way to happiness.
The story is so lovely, it's a simple story with a beautiful and important message of living life to the full and the importance of friendship and family. I love how even though he isn't there by her side, his presence is still around her, Albie makes her believe in her self and her self worth, he pushes her to keep going and to be happy, its a poignant and tender book that really does grab your heart, it is life-affirming and makes you really appreciate what we do have and how fragile and precarious life can be.
This was an Arc copy via the publisher and Netgalley, which I voluntarily reviewed as apart of this blog tou
This is one of the most tenderly beautiful and heart-warming books I have read, it steals your heart with the simple, yet humbling story of hope, friendship and starting to live life no matter what your age.
70-year-old Maria Birch's life is one of consistency, of habit, of routine. The only highlight is her weekly meet up with her friend; Albie, who she has met for tea every Thursday for the last four years, without fail. She rejoices in her weekly tea and cake with her friend, it perks Maria up and allows her to come out of her home for something other than the weekly shop, Albie is the only friend she has in her pretty lonely life so when one Thursday she goes to meet him as she does every week, only for him not to turn up she is hurt and saddened. Why would her friend just suddenly not meet her? She withdraws into herself, away from the world, you really feel for Maria here, the man she thought of as a friend as failed to meet her, she is at a loss as to what to do and why he didn't show. She all but becomes a recluse, she loses interest in everything, not even wanting to watch TV.
So when she gets a call from a lawyer she receives the most confusing and yet life-changing news about her friend, who wasn't the man who she thought he was, he had a lot of secrets that he had been keeping from her all these years. Albie left a list of wishes which he had never been able to complete, which is when Maria step's in and decides to complete Albie's wish list and in the process she begins to come out of her shell, she re-discovers life and begins to live again and it really is the most beautiful thing watching as this lonely and shy lady starts to find her feet and her way to happiness.
The story is so lovely, it's a simple story with a beautiful and important message of living life to the full and the importance of friendship and family. I love how even though he isn't there by her side, his presence is still around her, Albie makes her believe in her self and her self worth, he pushes her to keep going and to be happy, its a poignant and tender book that really does grab your heart, it is life-affirming and makes you really appreciate what we do have and how fragile and precarious life can be.
This was an Arc copy via the publisher and Netgalley, which I voluntarily reviewed as apart of this blog tou
November 15, 2019
The whole premise for this story is so thoroughly lovely. Maria loses the one small moment of joy in her lonely life when Albie passes away. No more Thursdays at the cafe, sharing a slice of marble cake and a pot of tea, no-one to talk with about the books she’s read or the TV programmes she’s watched, no-one left who cares. But Albie has left a legacy in more ways than one – he had secrets, and a former life Maria knew nothing about. In an attempt to atone for some of the things he might have done wrong, he’s left a list – of people and the actions he’d planned to take to make their lives better. When Maria decides to take on his unfinished list, it changes her life too – and finally makes her ready to face up to some challenges of her own.
The characters Maria encounters are simply wonderful – the homeless man, the girls at the cafe and hairdressers, the teenager who becomes her companion and confidante, the youths at the skate park, Albie’s long lost sister and his old friend, Maria’s beleaguered neighbour – all drawn so well, with real depth and some surprises along the way. There’s a really strong sense of place too – mainly Brighton, but with some rather lovely excursions in pursuit of some of the actions on the list. I will admit I struggled a little with Maria herself at first – she’s 70, which is only a little older than me, but I did find it quite difficult to identify with her. The playing of LPs on her “machine”, her unfamiliarity with technology, the tweed and lace-up shoes, her strict routine, the lavender oil in the Thursday morning bath – she really felt a generation older. But as the story progressed and I got swept along with her voyage of change and discovery, that initial disconnection was entirely forgotten – I grew to love her, and so will everyone who reads her story.
It’s emotional, but beautifully handled and never cloying – and there were the loveliest touches of humour, lightness and unalloyed joy that moved me to tears perhaps even more than its moments of real sadness. I loved its messages, clear and never laboured – that people are sometimes so much more than you see on the surface, life is for living, it’s never too late for change, and that those you love will always be near when you need them most. A really gorgeous book, very different, and quite beautifully written – I loved it.
The characters Maria encounters are simply wonderful – the homeless man, the girls at the cafe and hairdressers, the teenager who becomes her companion and confidante, the youths at the skate park, Albie’s long lost sister and his old friend, Maria’s beleaguered neighbour – all drawn so well, with real depth and some surprises along the way. There’s a really strong sense of place too – mainly Brighton, but with some rather lovely excursions in pursuit of some of the actions on the list. I will admit I struggled a little with Maria herself at first – she’s 70, which is only a little older than me, but I did find it quite difficult to identify with her. The playing of LPs on her “machine”, her unfamiliarity with technology, the tweed and lace-up shoes, her strict routine, the lavender oil in the Thursday morning bath – she really felt a generation older. But as the story progressed and I got swept along with her voyage of change and discovery, that initial disconnection was entirely forgotten – I grew to love her, and so will everyone who reads her story.
It’s emotional, but beautifully handled and never cloying – and there were the loveliest touches of humour, lightness and unalloyed joy that moved me to tears perhaps even more than its moments of real sadness. I loved its messages, clear and never laboured – that people are sometimes so much more than you see on the surface, life is for living, it’s never too late for change, and that those you love will always be near when you need them most. A really gorgeous book, very different, and quite beautifully written – I loved it.
December 1, 2019
What a beautiful book! I wasn't sure when I requested this one whether it might get a little bit maudlin in places but Ruby Hummingbird has managed to make me cry with emotion without depressing me at all then lifted me up with hope and happiness.
The story follows 70 year old Maria Birch who has isolated herself in grief since the tragic loss of her teenage daughter many years before. She has timetabled her life so that she has total control and rarely lets anyone behind her defences. All that changes when cheeky chap Albie Young invites himself to share a table with Maria in the local café. They agree to meet there every Thursday and slowly but surely Maria starts to relax and enjoy Albie's company. Until one week he doesn't show up.
We then follow Maria as she comes to terms with Albie's death; she's angry, she's sad, she's overwhelmed. But through Albie's list of good deeds he had hoped to fulfil before he died she finds inspiration to live life to the fullest. She meets and talks to people she never imagined herself mixing with, she finds out how good it feels to do a good deed for someone with no other reason than to be helpful and then faces her biggest fear of all. All because of Albie's list.
I was glad I was all on my own reading this book as it made me cry on more than one occasion. I really felt for Maria, how she has punished herself for most of her adult life over something she had no control. Her and Albie finding one another was meant to be, they each found what they needed in one another. As much as this was a sad book it was also very heartwarming in its conclusion. There are some lovely moments between Maria and the people she meets on her quest to tick every entry on the list and some humorous chapters too. I felt very proud of Maria and all the things she achieved but my heart broke for her that she lost Albie when she had so little time with him.
I just hope that when Maria's time came she walked into a café in heaven and sat down with Albie to share another pot of tea and a slice of marble cake.
The story follows 70 year old Maria Birch who has isolated herself in grief since the tragic loss of her teenage daughter many years before. She has timetabled her life so that she has total control and rarely lets anyone behind her defences. All that changes when cheeky chap Albie Young invites himself to share a table with Maria in the local café. They agree to meet there every Thursday and slowly but surely Maria starts to relax and enjoy Albie's company. Until one week he doesn't show up.
We then follow Maria as she comes to terms with Albie's death; she's angry, she's sad, she's overwhelmed. But through Albie's list of good deeds he had hoped to fulfil before he died she finds inspiration to live life to the fullest. She meets and talks to people she never imagined herself mixing with, she finds out how good it feels to do a good deed for someone with no other reason than to be helpful and then faces her biggest fear of all. All because of Albie's list.
I was glad I was all on my own reading this book as it made me cry on more than one occasion. I really felt for Maria, how she has punished herself for most of her adult life over something she had no control. Her and Albie finding one another was meant to be, they each found what they needed in one another. As much as this was a sad book it was also very heartwarming in its conclusion. There are some lovely moments between Maria and the people she meets on her quest to tick every entry on the list and some humorous chapters too. I felt very proud of Maria and all the things she achieved but my heart broke for her that she lost Albie when she had so little time with him.
I just hope that when Maria's time came she walked into a café in heaven and sat down with Albie to share another pot of tea and a slice of marble cake.
May 14, 2021
Rarely do I write a review, but I feel compelled to say something about this book. The main character was pitiful and unbelievably naive. I read and read wondering how she got to be so old with seemingly such little life experience. I could simply not finish it as I kept wondering if she would ever grow a spine. Her lack of courage, simple life knowledge, or understanding of human relations was an insult to women of a mature age. What did Albie ever see in her?
November 12, 2019
Wow! Wow! Wow! This book is absolutely beautiful! A heartwarming story of love and loss. An absolute joy to read. One that makes you think and question, to hold y0ur loved ones dear and to make the most of your life. A stunning story told with heart. Everyone should read this book. A masterpiece.
September 18, 2019
Beautifully written debut novel from Ruby Hummingbird.
A journey of self discovery and learning to let the world in again for a woman in her 70s.
Maria had more or less closed herself off from the world except for a meeting every Thursday with Albie Young. and has no idea when he doesn't turn up one week.
We soon discover that Albie had been hiding things from Maria, and as they are discovered and come to terms with, Maria starts to come to life before our very eyes.
I loved seeing how Maria grew over the course of the book, and seeing how she progresses with Albie's wish list. Although we don't get to meet Albie properly we do see him through everyone else's eyes and he seemed to be a rather special man.
I found the story was playing on my mind when I wasn't reading it, and the pages turned fast while I was. I has hooked on discovering how it would progress, and even ignored some of my work in order to finish reading as I was enjoying it that much.
Depending how you tend to react to deep, potentially emotional books will affect whether you do cry with this one. It didn't really affect me in that way, but could see it might do if you are more sensitive.
Always refreshing to read something featuring older characters and I can potentially see myself in Maria's position in many years time, which is somehow both worrying and thought provoking.
Fabulous writing, a story with a lot of heart and one that I would happily recommend. I am already very curious to see what Ruby Hummingbird has in store for us next.
Thank you to Kim Nash at Bookouture for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
A journey of self discovery and learning to let the world in again for a woman in her 70s.
Maria had more or less closed herself off from the world except for a meeting every Thursday with Albie Young. and has no idea when he doesn't turn up one week.
We soon discover that Albie had been hiding things from Maria, and as they are discovered and come to terms with, Maria starts to come to life before our very eyes.
I loved seeing how Maria grew over the course of the book, and seeing how she progresses with Albie's wish list. Although we don't get to meet Albie properly we do see him through everyone else's eyes and he seemed to be a rather special man.
I found the story was playing on my mind when I wasn't reading it, and the pages turned fast while I was. I has hooked on discovering how it would progress, and even ignored some of my work in order to finish reading as I was enjoying it that much.
Depending how you tend to react to deep, potentially emotional books will affect whether you do cry with this one. It didn't really affect me in that way, but could see it might do if you are more sensitive.
Always refreshing to read something featuring older characters and I can potentially see myself in Maria's position in many years time, which is somehow both worrying and thought provoking.
Fabulous writing, a story with a lot of heart and one that I would happily recommend. I am already very curious to see what Ruby Hummingbird has in store for us next.
Thank you to Kim Nash at Bookouture for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
October 21, 2019
The Albie Effect took my heart by a storm and showed me how tender and caring some hearts were. Even after they were gone, their goodness remained forever.
Every Thursday, Maria Birch met Albie Young until one week when he didn't come and she got a call from the lawyers. Albie Young was no more, but the list with his wishes were still live and pending. And it was up to Maria to fulfill them, and in the process, find her joie de vivre.
My first book by Ruby Hummingbird, the blurb told me to carry tissues. So I was well prepared. But this story didn't need any. There was sorrow when I read about Maria's life. She had undergone quite a bit in life. But Albie, his presence in the backdrop of the story, prodded her on when she wanted to give up. I liked how she found the courage to get up and live life. She made quite a few friends, more than she ever had.
The writing was poignant, filled with so many emotions that I slowly found myself wanting to live life along with Maria. Hope sparkled in every page like a rare diamond, showing me all the perfect facets. All that it needed was a bit of polishing.
Sometimes, we make these bonds with people in our every day life that we are not aware of. Every chapter, when Maria found the various people on Albie's list, made me aware of how precious those bonds were. Family is not only by blood but also by feelings...
The book affirmed, through its simple yet emotional story, one simple thing - life is today and now. And every moment is a good time to start living. If Maria could start life once again at the age of 70, why can't I?
Every Thursday, Maria Birch met Albie Young until one week when he didn't come and she got a call from the lawyers. Albie Young was no more, but the list with his wishes were still live and pending. And it was up to Maria to fulfill them, and in the process, find her joie de vivre.
My first book by Ruby Hummingbird, the blurb told me to carry tissues. So I was well prepared. But this story didn't need any. There was sorrow when I read about Maria's life. She had undergone quite a bit in life. But Albie, his presence in the backdrop of the story, prodded her on when she wanted to give up. I liked how she found the courage to get up and live life. She made quite a few friends, more than she ever had.
The writing was poignant, filled with so many emotions that I slowly found myself wanting to live life along with Maria. Hope sparkled in every page like a rare diamond, showing me all the perfect facets. All that it needed was a bit of polishing.
Sometimes, we make these bonds with people in our every day life that we are not aware of. Every chapter, when Maria found the various people on Albie's list, made me aware of how precious those bonds were. Family is not only by blood but also by feelings...
The book affirmed, through its simple yet emotional story, one simple thing - life is today and now. And every moment is a good time to start living. If Maria could start life once again at the age of 70, why can't I?
November 4, 2019
Maria is seventy years old and very set in her routine so when her friend Albie, who has met her every Thursday for the last four years, doesn't show up at their regular cafe, she is concerned. When he doesn't come the following Thursday she is very upset and withdraws into herself in her flat. When her phone rings and it is his solicitor she has to accept that Albie won't ever be going to meet her again. When the solicitor asks Maria to go to their offices she finds out that there was more to Albie than she could have ever imagined.
What a wonderful story this is. Yes, there are so many regrets and if only moments in the story which really touched my heart and brought tears to my eyes about what could have been, but it was too late. When she found a list written by Albie she began to piece together snippets of conversations from Albie, people he had mentioned, places he went too and it began to make sense. Maria got a new purpose in life.
There are some lovely characters in the story each with their own memories of Albie and what he had done for them. Maria was seeing a new side to the gentleman that sat with her each Thursday that told her only a little about himself but was always ready to hear about her week.
I loved the changes that happened in the people she met and facing the biggest challenge of all. This is a really good feel factor read that made me glow inside. It makes you really get behind Maria. I still cried at the 'if only' thoughts I had though. A super book, couldn't have asked for more from this lovely story.
I wish to thank NetGalley and the publisher for an e-copy of this book which I have reviewed honestly.
What a wonderful story this is. Yes, there are so many regrets and if only moments in the story which really touched my heart and brought tears to my eyes about what could have been, but it was too late. When she found a list written by Albie she began to piece together snippets of conversations from Albie, people he had mentioned, places he went too and it began to make sense. Maria got a new purpose in life.
There are some lovely characters in the story each with their own memories of Albie and what he had done for them. Maria was seeing a new side to the gentleman that sat with her each Thursday that told her only a little about himself but was always ready to hear about her week.
I loved the changes that happened in the people she met and facing the biggest challenge of all. This is a really good feel factor read that made me glow inside. It makes you really get behind Maria. I still cried at the 'if only' thoughts I had though. A super book, couldn't have asked for more from this lovely story.
I wish to thank NetGalley and the publisher for an e-copy of this book which I have reviewed honestly.
January 18, 2020
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 What a beautiful, heartwarming story of love, loss and acceptance. I always say one life touches so many, and Albie was the person that connected everyone in this book. Through death, he helped Maria accept her past and realize how special she is to so many. Love stories come in all forms. Albie & Marie’s story will be one I remember for a long time.
November 17, 2019
I wasn’t too sure what to make of this book in the first few chapters. But O.M.G. this book was sooooo good!!!! I will think about this book for days after.. 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. Just fabulous!!!!
May 4, 2020
2.5 stars. A good message, but I kept thinking that it was all a bit too sappy for me to really enjoy.
March 6, 2020
Maria is a 70 year old woman whose days of the week are always consistent. But she always looks forward to Thursday. It's not a chore day, it's a fun day having tea and cake with her friend Albie at the local tea shop. One week he doesn't come. The next week either. Maria is distraught and when she gets a letter from a law office she fears the worse. Albie has died but he has left a list of things he hopes Maria will do since he died before completing his wish list. A wonderful story with older characters that are well defined and very human. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
July 14, 2020
4.5 stars. Loved this book. From the opening pages, I was so intrigued by the character of Maria. I guessed the twist however I liked that the author didn't feel the need to spell out everything during the reveal.
March 7, 2021
Overall I enjoyed this story and believed Maria was wonderful and loved her coming out and meeting new friends and learning to appreciate life and living again. However there were times I wanted the movement of the story to be quicker.
April 5, 2020
Charming. A nice, gentle read. Just a reminder that life is too short and you should be kind to others. I enjoyed it very much.
April 13, 2020
Absolutely loved this book! Reminded me so much of the book "The Story of Authur Truluv by Elizabeth Berg". Enjoyed both these books. Hated this one to come to an end.
October 18, 2020
A heartwarming story, making you smile and shed a few tears (if you're like me). Just the kind of book that I love, leaving you with a peaceful, content feeling.
February 21, 2020
Very sweet, and some wonderful life lessons.
A little predictable, but that sometimes that’s ok.
A little predictable, but that sometimes that’s ok.
October 25, 2019
When I read the book description for this I knew I'd enjoy it. The main character who, despite the title isn't Albie Young but Maria Birch, is 70 years old. Every time I've read a book (and there's been a few) with a more mature female protagonist, they've all been quite special and this one is no exception.
One recurring theme in these books featuring older people is that of loneliness. Of course loneliness isn't just associated with older people and can happen to anyone for a variety of reasons but it is a fact that the older you get then the more prone you become to ending up feeling isolated from society.
Maria tends to stick with quite a rigid timetable for her week. She allocates one chore or task for each day and then looks forward to catching up with TV in the evenings. She lives alone, there is no mention of a husband or children in the beginning, just Maria and her TV. However she has one highlight in her life on Thursdays when she goes to meet Albie in the local cafe for a pot of tea, a slice of cake and most of all Albie's company and attention. We get the impression Maria is more than a little smitten with Albie and she looks forward to her meetings with him.
Sadly one day Albie doesn't turn up at the cafe. Disappointed she consoles herself with the week after, only there's no Albie again. Maria doesn't have a very high opinion of herself and as the book moves on we start to understand why she feels this way about herself. At first she thinks it was maybe something she said or perhaps something she didn't say, or maybe Albie just got bored with her.
When Maria finds out what has happened to her only friend, she's at first in shock and retreats into her safe place - her flat, refusing to go out, to see anyone, even to shop and eat properly.
When Maria finds a wish list of things that Albie wanted to do, she decides to try to carry them out on his behalf. This is when Maria starts to realise how much of life she's missed out on. That helping others can be very rewarding and as she moves through the list Maria becomes firm friends with each of the characters in the book. It's a kind of bucket list, and yes it's been done before in other books but that doesn't matter because each book and each set of stories that goes with these bucket lists are personal and heartfelt including this one.
It isn't all plain sailing for Maria. The list throws obstacles in her way, and often fearful of being rejected or thought of as intrusive Maria sometimes has to just bite the bullet, feel the fear and do it anyway. As a result she ends up with a far more fulfilled life than she had ever experienced before.
I liked all the characters in the book. They all have a story to tell, often sad but with hope and light at the end of the tunnel. After living many years under a heavy blanket of guilt, Maria eventually reconciles her present with her past and through the legacy left by Albie, Maria starts to live life again with all the joy and sometimes heartbreak that life brings. Perhaps a lesson to us all that life should be lived in the present, not in the past.
A warm-hearted read with many different challenges for Maria to deal with and to keep the reader interested. I give this book five glowing stars, it was everything I anticipated it to be and more besides.
One recurring theme in these books featuring older people is that of loneliness. Of course loneliness isn't just associated with older people and can happen to anyone for a variety of reasons but it is a fact that the older you get then the more prone you become to ending up feeling isolated from society.
Maria tends to stick with quite a rigid timetable for her week. She allocates one chore or task for each day and then looks forward to catching up with TV in the evenings. She lives alone, there is no mention of a husband or children in the beginning, just Maria and her TV. However she has one highlight in her life on Thursdays when she goes to meet Albie in the local cafe for a pot of tea, a slice of cake and most of all Albie's company and attention. We get the impression Maria is more than a little smitten with Albie and she looks forward to her meetings with him.
Sadly one day Albie doesn't turn up at the cafe. Disappointed she consoles herself with the week after, only there's no Albie again. Maria doesn't have a very high opinion of herself and as the book moves on we start to understand why she feels this way about herself. At first she thinks it was maybe something she said or perhaps something she didn't say, or maybe Albie just got bored with her.
When Maria finds out what has happened to her only friend, she's at first in shock and retreats into her safe place - her flat, refusing to go out, to see anyone, even to shop and eat properly.
When Maria finds a wish list of things that Albie wanted to do, she decides to try to carry them out on his behalf. This is when Maria starts to realise how much of life she's missed out on. That helping others can be very rewarding and as she moves through the list Maria becomes firm friends with each of the characters in the book. It's a kind of bucket list, and yes it's been done before in other books but that doesn't matter because each book and each set of stories that goes with these bucket lists are personal and heartfelt including this one.
It isn't all plain sailing for Maria. The list throws obstacles in her way, and often fearful of being rejected or thought of as intrusive Maria sometimes has to just bite the bullet, feel the fear and do it anyway. As a result she ends up with a far more fulfilled life than she had ever experienced before.
I liked all the characters in the book. They all have a story to tell, often sad but with hope and light at the end of the tunnel. After living many years under a heavy blanket of guilt, Maria eventually reconciles her present with her past and through the legacy left by Albie, Maria starts to live life again with all the joy and sometimes heartbreak that life brings. Perhaps a lesson to us all that life should be lived in the present, not in the past.
A warm-hearted read with many different challenges for Maria to deal with and to keep the reader interested. I give this book five glowing stars, it was everything I anticipated it to be and more besides.
November 18, 2019
Maria’s world is very small, by design. After the death of her daughter, her world compressed into a series of days spent without interaction, a specific task for each day, friends and fun eliminated. Except for Thursdays – the one day she allowed herself a treat at the local café, a pot of tea, perhaps a slice of cake. Alone. Always alone. Until a man budged up to her table and her Thursdays became the highlight of her week. Albert (or Albie) was kind, made her laugh, and perhaps fall just a little bit in love with him. If it weren’t for her secrets – secrets she was sure would send him packing. But one Thursday he wasn’t there – nor the next, or the one after that. A call from the solicitor explained the situation, and Maria soon found herself in possession of Albie’s home and not inconsiderable fortune. All meaningless to a woman who had specific days for shopping, laundry, hair appointments and rarely varied her routine.
Fortunately for Maria – Albie had left a list of tasks that he was working on – and it was his wish that Maria finish this list – from helping the homeless Keith to redecorating the café, to finding a way to encourage a troubled, but talented teenaged boy. Each of the ‘tasks’ required that Maria stretch herself and step out of the carefully constructed box that she has erected to contain her life and allow her to live without the highs and lows of emotion and loss.
Oh this was a lovely story with Maria’s tale of woe for the last 40+ years gradually revealing itself as she comes to grips with her own failures and guilts. It’s not that Maria is unfeeling – but very afraid of being hurt again, and shys away from interactions that may lead to someone rejecting her – just as she feels that life rejected her after her daughter died. It’s a slow process for Maria with many setbacks, but it seems that in trying to make amends for his own shortcomings when younger, Albie has found the keys to help others achieve their dreams with a bit of help. From providing others with an ear to truly hear them, to finding ways to ‘improve’ their situations – intentionally or not, Maria blossoms as she follows the list, finally able to free herself from the stranglehold that grief and guilt had upon her, and with the final discovery, a sort of happiness and a list of her own. A lovely and heartwarming story, full of emotion from laughter to tears, all with the spirit of Albie driving, coaxing and cheering on an often reluctant Maria who gains strength through helping (and being helped) in the most unexpected ways. A wonderful debut that will be sure to put this author on many reader’s auto-buy list.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
Fortunately for Maria – Albie had left a list of tasks that he was working on – and it was his wish that Maria finish this list – from helping the homeless Keith to redecorating the café, to finding a way to encourage a troubled, but talented teenaged boy. Each of the ‘tasks’ required that Maria stretch herself and step out of the carefully constructed box that she has erected to contain her life and allow her to live without the highs and lows of emotion and loss.
Oh this was a lovely story with Maria’s tale of woe for the last 40+ years gradually revealing itself as she comes to grips with her own failures and guilts. It’s not that Maria is unfeeling – but very afraid of being hurt again, and shys away from interactions that may lead to someone rejecting her – just as she feels that life rejected her after her daughter died. It’s a slow process for Maria with many setbacks, but it seems that in trying to make amends for his own shortcomings when younger, Albie has found the keys to help others achieve their dreams with a bit of help. From providing others with an ear to truly hear them, to finding ways to ‘improve’ their situations – intentionally or not, Maria blossoms as she follows the list, finally able to free herself from the stranglehold that grief and guilt had upon her, and with the final discovery, a sort of happiness and a list of her own. A lovely and heartwarming story, full of emotion from laughter to tears, all with the spirit of Albie driving, coaxing and cheering on an often reluctant Maria who gains strength through helping (and being helped) in the most unexpected ways. A wonderful debut that will be sure to put this author on many reader’s auto-buy list.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
May 19, 2024
"𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙧𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙙𝙤, 𝙥𝙪𝙨𝙝 𝙥𝙚𝙤𝙥𝙡𝙚 𝙖𝙬𝙖𝙮. 𝘽𝙚𝙘𝙖𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙙 𝙪𝙥 𝙖𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙚. 𝙑𝙚𝙧𝙮, 𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙖𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙚."
What is life like for someone who is old and has nothing much to look forward to and every day feels the same?
In her last 70s, it's the same for Maria. Her life revolves around the same routine.
Ironing on Friday.
Buy TV listings on Saturday.
Church on Sunday.
Weekly shopping on Monday.
Blow-dry on Tuesday.
Laundrette on Wednesday.
Then comes Thursday, Maria's only routine yet exceptional day of the week. It's the day she has breakfast with Albie Young, an old gentleman and a beloved friend of hers.
She looks forward to this day throughout the week, and it's the day she will do her best to look prettier. Then she walks to the cafe and orders a pot of tea and a slice of marble cake with two forks. She and Albie share the cake and drink tea, another part of their routine.
Except Albie doesn't turn up on one Thursday. It is unlike the Albie she knows, and later, she learns of his sudden death.
Devastated by the news, Maria loses her will to go on with life. She has lost the one thing that kept her going every day, and now she has nothing to look forward to.
But perhaps Albie knew Maria well, and that's why he left his wish list for her. Maria needed to pick up where he had left off, with a new purpose. And as she explores what Albie left for her, Maria realizes he was not exactly the man he had known for four years.
However, Maria has her secret and grief that no one knows about. How was she going to handle another? What was the purpose of Albie’s wish list?
*****
The story begins with Albie’s death, so it starts with sadness and cold. But as the story progresses, it begins to change and fills your heart with warmth and breaks your heart again. It’s like a rollercoaster ride of emotion. It wasn’t emotionally overwhelming but it had its charm.
Each chapter ends with another story: the story of a single mother and her daughter. It’s Maria’s story. As each chapter ends, we learn more about her life. I loved how the gradual reveal made me impatient and keep on reading.
Then comes Albie. Like Maria and everyone else, the readers are bound to wonder what happened to him in the past and what his purpose was in leaving whatever he left to Maria, someone he only knew for a short time.
The story shows how people can change each other’s lives by sharing love and showing care. And that you are never too old to live your life to the fullest and meaningfully.
While searching online, I noticed there is hardly enough discussion about the book. I hope more people discover this book and read it. It is worth every minute.
#TheWishList #RubyHummingbird
What is life like for someone who is old and has nothing much to look forward to and every day feels the same?
In her last 70s, it's the same for Maria. Her life revolves around the same routine.
Ironing on Friday.
Buy TV listings on Saturday.
Church on Sunday.
Weekly shopping on Monday.
Blow-dry on Tuesday.
Laundrette on Wednesday.
Then comes Thursday, Maria's only routine yet exceptional day of the week. It's the day she has breakfast with Albie Young, an old gentleman and a beloved friend of hers.
She looks forward to this day throughout the week, and it's the day she will do her best to look prettier. Then she walks to the cafe and orders a pot of tea and a slice of marble cake with two forks. She and Albie share the cake and drink tea, another part of their routine.
Except Albie doesn't turn up on one Thursday. It is unlike the Albie she knows, and later, she learns of his sudden death.
Devastated by the news, Maria loses her will to go on with life. She has lost the one thing that kept her going every day, and now she has nothing to look forward to.
But perhaps Albie knew Maria well, and that's why he left his wish list for her. Maria needed to pick up where he had left off, with a new purpose. And as she explores what Albie left for her, Maria realizes he was not exactly the man he had known for four years.
However, Maria has her secret and grief that no one knows about. How was she going to handle another? What was the purpose of Albie’s wish list?
*****
The story begins with Albie’s death, so it starts with sadness and cold. But as the story progresses, it begins to change and fills your heart with warmth and breaks your heart again. It’s like a rollercoaster ride of emotion. It wasn’t emotionally overwhelming but it had its charm.
Each chapter ends with another story: the story of a single mother and her daughter. It’s Maria’s story. As each chapter ends, we learn more about her life. I loved how the gradual reveal made me impatient and keep on reading.
Then comes Albie. Like Maria and everyone else, the readers are bound to wonder what happened to him in the past and what his purpose was in leaving whatever he left to Maria, someone he only knew for a short time.
The story shows how people can change each other’s lives by sharing love and showing care. And that you are never too old to live your life to the fullest and meaningfully.
While searching online, I noticed there is hardly enough discussion about the book. I hope more people discover this book and read it. It is worth every minute.
#TheWishList #RubyHummingbird
November 17, 2019
If your favoured reading material is a compelling tale with a good sprinkling of relationships, imperfection, hope, secrets and humour then The Wish List of Albie Young by Ruby Hummingbird is a must-read for you!
From the get-go there was so much happening in this wonderful, coming-of age-tale of friendship, happiness and life!
Septuagenarian Maria Birch has a rigid schedule: on Mondays, she does her weekly shop; on Tuesdays, she goes for a blow-dry; on Wednesdays, she visits the launderette. But Thursday is her favourite day -Maria walks to her local café to meet Albie Young, a charming man with a twinkle in his eye and an impressive collection of tweed flat caps. Every week, the pair share a slice of marble cake and a pot of tea. Except, one week, Albie doesn’t show up.
When Maria finds out what has happened, she suddenly finds that she is very lonely. Without her only friend she no longer has any energy, no reason to leave her apartment and no reason to laugh. But Albie has left behind a handwritten list of wishes he never got the chance to complete. Maria is resigned to facing the rest of her days heartbroken and alone, but fulfilling Albie’s wishes could hold the key to her happiness.
I was totally smitten with this book. Ruby Hummingbird instantly drew me into this lovely story with her thoughtful and exceptional writing. The story-line and plot were both intriguing and extremely emotional. Set in Brighton, there was a whole raft of characters that Maria encountered who helped to guide her while she went through Albie’s wish list. Even though the reader doesn’t actually get to meet Albie in person, his spirit was so abundant throughout the tale that he was as much-loved as Maria.
The Wish List of Albie Young is Ruby Hummingbird’s debut novel and there was no room for repetitiveness or boredom here! The story was humorous in parts and the serious issues, such as coping with loneliness and loss, were tackled with empathy and compassion.
I was rooting all the way through for Maria and Ruby Hummingbird rounded things off so masterfully which I fully appreciated. I think this author is a force to be reckoned with and I am eagerly awaiting her next contribution. I recommend The Wish List of Albie Young without a flicker of hesitation, so don’t miss out!
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel, at my request, from Bookouture via NetGalley and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
From the get-go there was so much happening in this wonderful, coming-of age-tale of friendship, happiness and life!
Septuagenarian Maria Birch has a rigid schedule: on Mondays, she does her weekly shop; on Tuesdays, she goes for a blow-dry; on Wednesdays, she visits the launderette. But Thursday is her favourite day -Maria walks to her local café to meet Albie Young, a charming man with a twinkle in his eye and an impressive collection of tweed flat caps. Every week, the pair share a slice of marble cake and a pot of tea. Except, one week, Albie doesn’t show up.
When Maria finds out what has happened, she suddenly finds that she is very lonely. Without her only friend she no longer has any energy, no reason to leave her apartment and no reason to laugh. But Albie has left behind a handwritten list of wishes he never got the chance to complete. Maria is resigned to facing the rest of her days heartbroken and alone, but fulfilling Albie’s wishes could hold the key to her happiness.
I was totally smitten with this book. Ruby Hummingbird instantly drew me into this lovely story with her thoughtful and exceptional writing. The story-line and plot were both intriguing and extremely emotional. Set in Brighton, there was a whole raft of characters that Maria encountered who helped to guide her while she went through Albie’s wish list. Even though the reader doesn’t actually get to meet Albie in person, his spirit was so abundant throughout the tale that he was as much-loved as Maria.
The Wish List of Albie Young is Ruby Hummingbird’s debut novel and there was no room for repetitiveness or boredom here! The story was humorous in parts and the serious issues, such as coping with loneliness and loss, were tackled with empathy and compassion.
I was rooting all the way through for Maria and Ruby Hummingbird rounded things off so masterfully which I fully appreciated. I think this author is a force to be reckoned with and I am eagerly awaiting her next contribution. I recommend The Wish List of Albie Young without a flicker of hesitation, so don’t miss out!
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel, at my request, from Bookouture via NetGalley and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
October 23, 2019
Spoiler alert - books about old people always make me cry! And you'll have to have a heart of stone if you don't find yourself shedding a tear or two during this stunning debut from Ruby Hummingbird that captures beautifully those little moments that often end up meaning the most and how just a simple action can start a wonderful chain reaction off, bringing hope to those who need it.
It's set in Brighton, and we follow the story of Maria. She lives alone and has a weekly routine that she sticks to rigidly - Thursday is her favourite day though after a chance encounter with a man in a cafe, means she now meets up with him every Thursday for tea, cake and a chat. Until one day he doesn't show and she's devastated to lose that connection.
When she receives a call from a lawyer, the truth about Albie is revealed and it was heartbreaking to see how Maria reacted to the news. But Albie has done something rather wonderful for her and her life and routine is set to change, if only she can cope with the loss.
With the discovery of a list that Albie left behind, she finds out he's been a good samaritan in his life, with a wish list where he helps a number of local people. Many of the plans he had are still unticked so she sets out to carry on his good work and starts to meet up with the people that Albie had gone out of his way to spend time with. From a homeless man, to a troubled youngster and even to Albie's sister, Maria starts to disover a life outside of her routine and the wonderful feeling you get when you can help someone - it's one of those stories that makes your heart burst with happiness when you see the positive effects a simple action can create.
Maria finds her own name on the list and ticking her 'wishes' off the list might prove the most difficult as she has to face some heartbreak from the past.
Maria finds that helping people isn't always taken in the right spirit but the sense of purpose and responsibility really makes her shine and forms some wonderful new bonds for her, and knowing that Albie wasn't doing these things for attention, but just to help, is just another heartwarming aspect of this whole book.
Totally adorable and a wonderful antidote of a read to the often heartless and harsh world we are living in. A must read!!
It's set in Brighton, and we follow the story of Maria. She lives alone and has a weekly routine that she sticks to rigidly - Thursday is her favourite day though after a chance encounter with a man in a cafe, means she now meets up with him every Thursday for tea, cake and a chat. Until one day he doesn't show and she's devastated to lose that connection.
When she receives a call from a lawyer, the truth about Albie is revealed and it was heartbreaking to see how Maria reacted to the news. But Albie has done something rather wonderful for her and her life and routine is set to change, if only she can cope with the loss.
With the discovery of a list that Albie left behind, she finds out he's been a good samaritan in his life, with a wish list where he helps a number of local people. Many of the plans he had are still unticked so she sets out to carry on his good work and starts to meet up with the people that Albie had gone out of his way to spend time with. From a homeless man, to a troubled youngster and even to Albie's sister, Maria starts to disover a life outside of her routine and the wonderful feeling you get when you can help someone - it's one of those stories that makes your heart burst with happiness when you see the positive effects a simple action can create.
Maria finds her own name on the list and ticking her 'wishes' off the list might prove the most difficult as she has to face some heartbreak from the past.
Maria finds that helping people isn't always taken in the right spirit but the sense of purpose and responsibility really makes her shine and forms some wonderful new bonds for her, and knowing that Albie wasn't doing these things for attention, but just to help, is just another heartwarming aspect of this whole book.
Totally adorable and a wonderful antidote of a read to the often heartless and harsh world we are living in. A must read!!
December 20, 2019
I love books like this one, quirky, gentle, romantic, sad and so very profound. We are all flawed human beings who make mistakes, who pretend, who try hard, who live with pain, who hide away, who start again.
Maria meets Albie every Thursday in a local café and it is the highlight of the week, the only thing worth doing and the only joy and company she has. Until one day she doesn't even have that.
Through the pain of his death Maria begins to learn much more about herself, about Albie and how by completing Albie's wish list, she can find hope, love and strength to fill her days and put the painful past to rest.
Loss of a loved one is devastating but so is a life not lived. Although it is scary and alien to Maria she begins to reach out and she finds herself talking to and helping others which brings her a sense of peace and ultimately reassures her she is loved.
Heartbreaking in its portrayal of loneliness, we learn that you are never too old and that it is never too late to live life to the full.
I managed not to cry throughout the book, until the very end when we are given Albie's letter to read. A big lumped formed in my throat at the beauty and simplicity of a love that was never realised but existed nevertheless. To me it was obvious a lot of the time what was gong to happen, particularly when a schoolgirl Rosie appears, but what I didn't expect was the way in which Albie was able to reach out beyond the grave to fulfil the very last wish on his list
Maria meets Albie every Thursday in a local café and it is the highlight of the week, the only thing worth doing and the only joy and company she has. Until one day she doesn't even have that.
Through the pain of his death Maria begins to learn much more about herself, about Albie and how by completing Albie's wish list, she can find hope, love and strength to fill her days and put the painful past to rest.
Loss of a loved one is devastating but so is a life not lived. Although it is scary and alien to Maria she begins to reach out and she finds herself talking to and helping others which brings her a sense of peace and ultimately reassures her she is loved.
Heartbreaking in its portrayal of loneliness, we learn that you are never too old and that it is never too late to live life to the full.
I managed not to cry throughout the book, until the very end when we are given Albie's letter to read. A big lumped formed in my throat at the beauty and simplicity of a love that was never realised but existed nevertheless. To me it was obvious a lot of the time what was gong to happen, particularly when a schoolgirl Rosie appears, but what I didn't expect was the way in which Albie was able to reach out beyond the grave to fulfil the very last wish on his list
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