Play Book Tag discussion

Bud Stanley is a depressed, middle aged, divorced, obituary writer. He is at a standstill as life is passing him by. In a drunken stupor, he writes his own obituary and publishes it. When the newspaper tries to fire him, they can't because the efficient HR department already has him listed as deceased. Instead, he on leave until his employer can fix the error and really fire him. In the time, Bud tries to find some meaning in life by attending stranger's funerals and wakes.

Though funny and silly and awkward, Kenny tells a deep and heartfelt story of being lost while at the same time romanticizing obituaries in a way I have never thought before. Honestly, I never thought of an obituary as more than "this person died on such and such date and is survived by...." but Kenney gives a deeper look into what an obituary can be, should be, and the power an obituary writer has.

Kenney also seamlessly weaves in such an array of characters and backgrounds into the story. It doesn't feel forced or token. It feels normal, everyday New York. It made me long for such rich diversity in my everyday life. Noticed but in a you experience the differences instead of identifying them. I don't know if that coming across correctly.

In examining the meaning of life and death, Kenney has the level of introspection and feeling that I love about Fredrik Backman's writings. Quirky and reflective.

Great review. I added this to my TBR. Many years ago, when people still got the daily paper, I would always read the obituary column. Several times a week, I would read about a deceased man or woman who led a completely fascinating life. I think there used to be an art to writing obituaries. They included things like soapbox derby wins, battles fought in WW2, and sections on their charity work. It always made me wish that I had met some of them. Especially some of the old Arizona miners and pioneer types.

I have learned many things about people I thought I knew well, from reading their obituaries. I will check it out this book also.