On the HahaFiction shelf
The Great Unexpected
by Dan Mooney
Joel is grieving his wife and resents the routines of his nursing home. His new roommate, retired soap actor Frank, brings a confidence Joel finds unbearable. When Joel confides that he wants to end his life, Frank becomes involved in his plans, and their unlikely friendship takes them out into the world again.
From the publisher’s blurb
“the strength of friendship when you really feel alone”Read the full description at Legend Press, 2019 rights catalog
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What makes it funny?
Frank introduces himself by his stage name and pauses for the recognition he thinks he deserves. Joel is unimpressed. When a nurse addresses Frank by his ordinary surname, Adams, Frank has to explain himself, and Joel finally finds something to laugh at.
The comedy at work
Joel treats his roommate’s scarves, soap operas and booming laugh as invasions of his territory. Frank answers hostility with theatrical confidence and teasing. Their quarrels sit beside the nursing home’s rules and their shared wish to be treated as adults with choices.
Try this if…
Readers drawn to friendship stories about older people reclaiming independence may find this appealing. Kirkus admired its humor and sympathy while questioning moments that lean on familiar stereotypes of old age.
Good to know
Suicidal thinking and planning are central to the setup. Bereavement, loneliness and the loss of independence in residential care receive substantial attention, alongside the men’s humor and affection.
A few distinguishing details
- A grieving nursing-home resident gains a flamboyant retired soap actor as his roommate.
More funny contemporary & literary
Sources & further reading
- Legend Press rights catalog
Publisher
- Authorized excerpt
Reading sample
- Kirkus review
Review
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