Leonard and Hungry Paul by Rónán Hession

Leonard and Hungry Paul

Rónán Hession

Hungry Paul is a thirty something whose family worries that he is too gentle and introspective. In this novel, thoroughly recommended to banish the blues, the author triumphantly shows how Paul's lovingly thoughtful actions unify a group that includes night-club bouncers, mime artists, elderly ladies and yoga teachers, whilst ensuring his family proves Tolstoy wrong by being happy, not unhappy, in their very own indiosyncratic way.

Extract
Hungry Paul had overcome his wavering commitment and social awkwardness to stick with volunteering at the hospital. He and Mrs Hawthorn seemed to share a kindred peace, sitting together quietly holding hands like Larkin's Arundel tomb.
Parallels
  • The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
  • Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman