Synopses & Reviews
All the while, he forms a special bond with his ailing Grandpa Walker, a World War II veteran prone to dark habits. Thomas undertakes a quest to locate his grandfather's legendary pornography collection, leading him to uncover secrets about the family that will change him irrevocably. is a hilarious, engaging, and touching debut novel, an unforgettable tale of one teen's coming of age.
Review
"Fresh and compelling . . . Handled with verve and affection." --
Los Angeles Times "A book I could read over and over again, a beautiful story told with such dexterity and depth, it can be enjoyed for both its imagination and its craft." --Simon Pegg, NPR's All Things Considered
"Sharp, spry, and darkly funny from the first page to the last."--ForeWord
Synopsis
Meet thirteen-year-old Thomas Penman. Growing up in a household of eccentrics, including parents who wage a silent war against each other, Thomas downs his first drink, smokes his first cigarette, and pursues the beautiful Gwendolin Hackett.
About the Author
Bruce Robinson has written and directed many films, including the cult classic Withnail and I and the adaptation of Hunter S. Thompson's The Rum Diary starring Johnny Depp. He has worked with Franco Zeffirelli, Ken Russell, and Francois Truffaut.