Book review: Leonard and Hungry Paul, by Ronan Hession

LEONARD AND HUNGRY PAUL by Ronan Hession

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


This is a book that I chose to read because I liked the cover. Sometimes that works, sometimes it doesn't. In this case, it definitely did. "Leonard and Hungry Paul" is a story about two thirty-something friends who are both at a stage in their lives where they feel like they don't fit in anywhere. Other people seem to be able to get on with their lives, while Leonard and Hungry Paul just exist. Leonard is living alone after the recent death of his mother and seeks solace in his friend Hungry Paul who is also quite a lonely figure, living with his parents and treated as if he is incapable of making his own decisions.

Leonard and Hungry Paul have a lot in common and observe the world somewhat differently from those around them. These two characters seem like real people, and are well-developed by the author. I found myself engrossed in their stories; reading the book is like chatting with an old friend. As I neared the end of it, I felt sad, almost like saying goodbye to a friend. The hallmarks of a good book.

The two main characters are very relatable and I think that's why the book has found such a wide readership. There is a Hungry Paul and Leonard in all of us, almost the inner child. It's a memorable story, and the kind of book you could read again and again. Leonard and Hungry Paul is overflowing with wisdom. One of the best books I've read for a while.



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