# The Guncle

By Steven Rowley · The Guncle, book 1

Profile: https://hahafiction.com/books/the-guncle-3be11efc/

Patrick O’Hara has withdrawn from his sitcom career into a quiet Palm Springs life. After his sister-in-law dies and his brother enters addiction treatment, nine-year-old Maisie and six-year-old Grant come to stay. Their uncle’s summer job is helping them grieve while he is still struggling with a loss of his own.

## What makes it funny?

Patrick has an answer for almost everything, including why emergency phone calls should wait until he has had enough sleep. His old television catchphrase follows him into an awkward encounter while he is trying to comfort his brother.

### The comedy at work

A practiced entertainer has to learn how to care for children without relying on jokes and treats. His household rules and sharp replies offer plenty to laugh at, while his wit also helps him avoid talking about his own grief.

### Try this if…

Family-fiction readers who enjoy an unconventional guardian, Hollywood observations and affection expressed through teasing. The grief remains a substantial part of the story.

### Good to know

The setup includes the deaths of a parent and a partner, along with addiction treatment. The opening contains profanity and adult sexual references.

## What to expect

- Genre: Contemporary & literary
- On the shelf: Family comedy
- Kind of humor: Banter · Situational comedy
- The atmosphere: Warmhearted
- Format: Novel
- Length: 368 pages
- Audiobook: 11 hr 23 min
- Published: 2021

## A few distinguishing details

- An uncle’s improvised rules for family life
- A former sitcom star caring for bereaved children

## Sources & further reading

- Author commentary: [Author](https://www.stevenrowley.com/the-guncle)
- Book information: [Series and audio listing](https://books.apple.com/us/audiobook/the-guncle-unabridged/id1566483421)
- Review: [Publishers Weekly review](https://www.publishersweekly.com/9780525542285)
- Publisher: [Publisher](https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/608011/the-guncle-by-steven-rowley)
- Library catalog: [Audiobook edition](https://libraryconnection.overdrive.com/media/5716008)
- Publisher: [Publisher excerpt](https://penguinrandomhousehighereducation.com/book?isbn=9780525542292)
- Review: [Kirkus review](https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/steven-rowley/the-guncle)