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Fun Book

I took a friend's recommendation and read this book:

The Secret Diary of Hendrik Groen

Now I am going to recommend it to you.

Hendrick Groen is, as he describes it, one of the inmates of an assisted living facility in Amsterdam. Out of a bit of boredom, he decides to keep a secret diary cataloging the indignities of aging and the curious ways of his peers as well as the staff and administration of the facility. He manages to catalog the joys and the wisdom and the friendships as well. In other words, the dignities of aging are also evident.

The book is funny and sad in turns. It's recognizable as life. You will know some of these people, I'll guarantee.

I noticed that there is a follow up book on the new books shelf at my local library. I look forward to reading that one soon.


Comments

  1. RianAugust 11, 2019 at 2:40 PM

    I read something like this written by a woman (also in her 80's) who lived in an assistant living facility. It was funny and enjoyable to read. So I will definitely check Henrick Groen out. Thanks for the reccomendation!

    ReplyDelete
  2. AnonymousAugust 11, 2019 at 4:22 PM

    Thanks. Just put it on hold at my library.

    ReplyDelete
  3. MaebemeAugust 11, 2019 at 5:49 PM

    I've actually read the book - I borrowed it from my 18 year old nephew! He enjoyed it and passed on to me and I thought it was terrific. Now I need to find the follow-up book.

    ReplyDelete
  4. TaborAugust 11, 2019 at 7:07 PM

    These look like a fun and rewarding read. I hope to be able to get them.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Linda ReederAugust 11, 2019 at 7:31 PM

    I'll add it to my list. i recently finished "Where the Crawdads Sing". Wonderful book! Now reading "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime"

    ReplyDelete
  6. Jenn JilksAugust 12, 2019 at 9:16 AM

    What a character he seems! I'm in the middle of two mystery series, but I'll note it!
    (ツ) from Cottage Country Ontario , ON, Canada!

    ReplyDelete
  7. Margaret (Peggy or Peg too)August 12, 2019 at 10:02 AM

    Thanks for the tip. I am in need of a good book to dive into.

    ReplyDelete
  8. Arkansas PattiAugust 12, 2019 at 1:47 PM

    Sounds like one I would enjoy but for now my library doesn't have it. I'll keep looking. Sounds like it might be a bit like Effie Wilder's books that she started writing at 85.

    ReplyDelete
  9. gigihawaiiAugust 12, 2019 at 1:49 PM

    Looks like an enjoyable book. Tears and laughter.

    ReplyDelete
  10. TomAugust 12, 2019 at 9:53 PM

    Apparently he had a previous book as well, "The Secret Diary of Henry Groen, 83 1/4 years old." Gotta check 'em out. Thanks for the tip.

    ReplyDelete

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