‘The Magnificent Sons’ by Justin Myers

This book – published today in hardback – is a warm, witty and uplifting read.

I really love funny books and Adam Kay (who endorsed this book) so I thought this was definitely worth a try.  I am certainly glad I did.

Jake is edging towards thirty with a girlfriend who is expecting to become a fiancee, but he isn't quite comfortable in his own skin or even with his own family.  His younger brother, Trick, has just publically come out as gay, not that anyone ever considered he might not be.  Their parents are accepting of their youngest son's sexuality, but seem a whole lot less supportive when Jake announces his own bisexuality.  This book charts Jake's progress from heterosexual coupledom into uncharted waters...

The book is funny - not side-splittingly so, but certainly warm and witty.  However, its strength lies in its characterisation.  Jake is troubled and flawed and capable of some bad decisions, and his family and friends are so real.  This is a book that swerves stereotypes wherever possible - Jake's girlfriend is fabulous even when she is hurting when she could easily have been made into a woman scorned and I loved her.  Similarly, Jake's family are brash and loud, but also extremely subtly drawn and tender when it matters.

I enjoyed this book - it's a lively and engaging read that doesn't preach or stereotype.  Instead, we get a full range of well-observed and realistic characters who are just trying to navigate their own situations.  A lovely book and one I whole-heartedly recommend.

I received a free copy of the book from NetGalley in return for an honest review.

Photo by Shopify Partners from Burst

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