A Review of All These Lonely People
A Gervase Phinn Quick Read Based on 'Eleanor Rigby’
Mar 26, 2009
All These Lonely People reveals the sphere of influence of one man in the lives of many, as the author Gervase Phinn works his magic again.
The Plot
Father McKenzie has recently received dire news, but that does not stop him tending to his flock. The Catholic Church is often a magnet for those needing help and his compassion is tested by the characters that fill this book with their problematic lives. As the book concludes, he receives a timely reward.
The Characters
There is a wealth of characters that Father McKenzie encounters in his daily life in his church. His burden is not something that he dwells on. Despite suspicions that his motives towards children are suspect, Father McKenzie feels privileged to be able to help those who migrate towards his forgiving nature. He is an attentive and caring listener, ready and willing to provide solace to those in need:
- Mathew, a young lad, who has lost his way as his mother struggles to pay him attention as a single parent.
- Eleanor Rigby, the lonely old woman whose secrets emerge both in the confessional and after death.
- Miss Evans, his wizened housekeeper who means well, but can’t help throwing a cat amongst the pigeons.
- Mark, the young man recently devastated by the news of his adoption.
Hard to Put Down?
This is a gentle and engaging book. Although it meanders a little uncertainly towards the beginning, the ending has a genuine feel good factor about it. The reader is left with a strong sense of a quiet moral authority.
It would be perfect reading for someone who is looking for comfort and companionship.
About the Author
Gervase Phinn started life as a teacher and school inspector. His forays into writing have made him a popular author and broadcaster with children and adults alike. He is best known for his autobiographical Dale series, described as the ‘James Herriot of schools’ (Sunday Express). He lives with his family in Yorkshire, UK.
Quick Reads Series
Quick Reads are aimed at people who’ve either lost or never developed their reading habit or just want simply that, a quick read. They are short, often only about 100 pages long, and are written in an accessible and appealing style.
There are 32 books in the series including 10 published 5 March 2009, to coincide with World Reading day. Learning resources are provided to develop reading skills.
More Reviews of 2009 Quick Reads
The following Quick Reads have also been reviewed:
- John Boyne - The Dare
- Catrin Collier - Black - Eyed Devils
- Kate Mosse - The Cave
- Patience Thomson – 101 Ways to Get Your Child to Read
All These Lonely People (ISBN - 10: 0141039922; ISBN -13: 978-0141039923). Published by Penguin (UK) - 5 March 2009.
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