Childish Things

Satirical and yet compassionate, this novel begins with a funeral at which Gregor McLeod, a retired schoolmaster of 72, is mourning the death of his wife Kate. It soon becomes evident, however, that McLeod has been something of a womanizer and, despite his very recent (and heartfelt) bereavement, is being pursued by an assortment of attractive women. Jenkins proceeds to explore McLeod's adventurous escapades with these ladies both at home and abroad. The result is a tremendously compelling comic novel which retains all the sharpness, wit, and pace that is customary from Jenkins, combined with a mellow, wry wisdom that never fails to entertain. His central theme, whether we ever outgrow "childish things," is explored with captivating insight and delicious humor. This is a gloriously readable novel from a consummate storyteller