Some books just touch your heart, y’know?

Such is the story of Frederick Fife, a lonely, almost homeless widower and all the people whose lives he makes better.

Fred has just been evicted and is out walking when he comes upon a deceased man in a wheelchair. Through a series of events, he ends up being taken to a nursing home and told his name is Bernard. He tries to correct them, but Bernard had dementia. No one even listens to what he’s saying.

Faced with homelessness even if he could make someone believe him, he begins to lean into his new life as Bernard which comes with plentiful meals, something he hasn’t had in many years. Honestly, the parts where he discusses his food insecurity are probably the hardest for me to read even though the author handles it deftly.

So, while there are many serious topics within, including the food insecurity, potential homelessness, cancer, dementia, and grief, there is also so much humor and light. It feels a lot like life.

Fred is so incredibly likable and sweet, you fret for him and want nothing but joy for the rest of his time on earth. You’ll also meet other residents and staff of the nursing home and love them too.

I’m just overall delighted by this book which brings a lot of chuckles and a few tears too.

I received this book via #netgalley and @williammorrowbooks. All thoughts are mine alone.

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