Grave Talk, a review by Joanna

Alice’s whole world stopped when her husband died suddenly of a heart attack. With no family or friends to console her, she’s lost and alone, and finds comfort only from visiting his grave to talk to him. Imagine her bemusement when a large talking frog appears at the neighbouring plot – no this isn’t a fairytale, it’s Ben, a young doctor whole older brother also died prematurely, leaving instructions that he is to visit every year in a different outlandish costume – starting with Kermit. Awkwardness turns to understanding as Alice and Ben find solace in talking to a stranger, one day a year. Can two lonely souls help each other move on?

What I loved the most about this was it’s not a romance – yes it’s true, a fictional man and woman can have an enduring meaningful relationship without ending up hooking up. Both main characters are flawed and irrational, but that’s what made them endearing. This one isn’t as funny as some of his earlier books, but given the serious topics it’s dealing with, that’s appropriate. The pace is fairly slow, and parts a bit predictable, but overall it’s moving, thought-provoking, and ultimately heartwarming – recommended.