Format: E-book (Kindle)
Publisher: Sphere
Published: 7th June 2018
Pages: 480 Pages
Genre: Fiction, Contemporary, Illness; humour.
The Blurb
Tom, single father to Hannah, is the manager of a tiny local theatre. On the same day each year, he and its colourful cast of part-time actors have staged a fantastical production just for his little girl, a moment of magic to make her childhood unforgettable.But there is another reason behind these annual shows: the very first production followed Hannah’s diagnosis with a heart condition that will end her life early. And now, with Hannah a funny, tough girl of fifteen, that time is coming.
Hannah’s heart is literally broken – and she can’t bear the idea of her dad’s breaking too. So she resolves to find a partner for Tom, someone else to love, to fill the space beside him.
While all the time Tom plans a final day of magic that might just save them both.
Purchase the book: Amazon UK | Book Depository
THE REVIEW
Father and daughter duo, Tom and Hannah, take you on a hilarious journey of love, laughter and heart troubles. Yes, heart troubles, not just that of the emotional variety. Let’s not sugarcoat the issue here Hannah’s heart is falling and everyone is worried. Other than her tiredness and her ability to lose her breath in 10 seconds, she’s doing fine!
Well, the Days of Wonder is certainly one of my favourites reads of 2018. It’s going to take a lot for me to add another book to this category anytime soon.
There is a natural balance of humour from the Willow Tree Theatre with a seriousness of Hannah’s heart disease. You’d imagine that on some occasions you’d feel sadness or grief, but you would be wrong. It made me laugh, whilst still appreciating the need to listen to the important topics that Keith highlights throughout. I think the main idea behind this approach was to add a hint of normality to an often traumatic time.
Hannah’s character is strong and realistic. She has an adult head on her young shoulders. However, she still likes to hang around with her best friends and boyfriend.
Tom and Hannah’s relationship was something I admired. It’s very rare that you read about a single dad raising their children, especially when they are going through something as dramatic as Tom is experiencing. They never have to worry about being alone as the Willow Tree Theatre company are like their family. The community spirit from Ted, Sally, Magaret, Shaun and James (I’m sure I’ve missed a few characters off this list) radiates from Keith’s words. Each member of the theatre provides you with enough backstory to keep your curiosity at bay. I particularly liked Magaret and her ‘way back when’ stories.
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This book seems boss. I will have to buy a copy. The cover is pretty too x x
It was one of my favourites this year. Keith’s writing style is brilliant. It’s funny, yet serious. X