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Iona Iverson's Rules for Commuting
Every day Iona Iverson, a stylish, opinionated, larger-than-life magazine advice columnist, rides the train to work with her dog, Lulu. Every day she sees the same people, whom she knows only by nickname: Impossibly-Pretty-Bookworm and Mr-Too-Good-to-Be-True. Of course, they never speak. Seasoned commuters never do.
Then one morning, the man she calls Smart-But-Sexist-Manspreader chokes on a grape right in front of her. He’d have died were it not for the timely intervention of Sanjay, a nurse, who gives him the Heimlich maneuver.
This single event starts a chain reaction, and an eclectic group of people discovers that talking to strangers can teach you quite a bit about the world around you—and even more about yourself.
Then one morning, the man she calls Smart-But-Sexist-Manspreader chokes on a grape right in front of her. He’d have died were it not for the timely intervention of Sanjay, a nurse, who gives him the Heimlich maneuver.
This single event starts a chain reaction, and an eclectic group of people discovers that talking to strangers can teach you quite a bit about the world around you—and even more about yourself.
342 pages, Hardcover
First published May 26, 2022
3904 people are currently reading
72149 people want to read
About the author
Clare Pooley
18 books3,495 followersClare Pooley graduated from Newnham College, Cambridge and spent twenty years in the heady world of advertising.
Clare’s memoir - The Sober Diaries - has helped thousands of people around the world to quit drinking.
The Authenticity Project, Clare’s first novel, was a New York Times bestseller, a BBC Radio 2 book club pick, and winner of the RNA debut novel award.
Clare’s second novel - called The People on Platform 5 in the UK, and Iona Iverson’s Rules for Commuting in the USA - was published in 2022.
How to Age Disgracefully is being published in June 2024.
Clare lives in London and Cornwall, with her husband, 3 kids and 2 border terriers. She loves cooking, walking the cliff paths and wild swimming.
Clare’s memoir - The Sober Diaries - has helped thousands of people around the world to quit drinking.
The Authenticity Project, Clare’s first novel, was a New York Times bestseller, a BBC Radio 2 book club pick, and winner of the RNA debut novel award.
Clare’s second novel - called The People on Platform 5 in the UK, and Iona Iverson’s Rules for Commuting in the USA - was published in 2022.
How to Age Disgracefully is being published in June 2024.
Clare lives in London and Cornwall, with her husband, 3 kids and 2 border terriers. She loves cooking, walking the cliff paths and wild swimming.
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April 17, 2022I don’t think it’s fair for me to rate this book, since I wrote it and I’m a little biased. I really hope you enjoy it, and if you have the time to review it I’d be hugely grateful. Clare x
September 22, 2022
Cheesy in a way that was truly suicide prevention for me
November 16, 2022
Fifty-seven-year-old Iona Iverson, spends her thirty-six-minute morning commute (ten stops to Waterloo), preparing for her day and observing the commuters around her with her dog Lulu by her side. Working as an advice columnist (“magazine therapist” ) for a women’s magazine for the last 30 years and married to her long-time partner Bea, she has a specific set of “rules” to adhere to as far as her commute goes among which are to always pack for any eventuality (which explains her well-stocked bag) and to not talk to anyone (though that does not stop her from giving her fellow commuters interesting names such as Smart-But-Sexist-Manspreader based on her observations of their behavior) However when one of her fellow commuters almost chokes on a grape and is saved by another commuter, this is just the beginning of a sequence of events through which a diverse group of people become friends, with Iona in the middle of it all. Initially, Iona, who is on the verge of being pushed out of her job is motivated to interact with the younger crowd to gain some insight into the lives and interests of younger people so that she can make changes in her approach to her job (she is being pressured by her boss who wants to boost readership in that demographic) but gradually she finds herself helping Piers, Sanjay, Emmie, David and Martha as they navigate through their own problems, her thoughtfulness and concern reciprocated when Iona finds herself in need of friends and support, proving first impressions might not always be accurate and it is only through kindness, compassion and communication can we truly understand one another.
The narrative is shared through multiple PoVs which enables us to get to know these characters, their backstories and the challenges they are facing in their present lives. Iona is a very interesting character whose life experiences make for an interesting read. With its engaging, well-paced narrative and a delightful cast of characters, Iona Iverson’s Rules for Commuting by Clare Pooley is an entertaining feel-good read full of heart , humor and wisdom that touches upon themes of ageism, loneliness, abusive relationships, cyberbullying and age-related illness among others . I paired my reading with the audio narration by Clare Corbett, which I thoroughly enjoyed.
The narrative is shared through multiple PoVs which enables us to get to know these characters, their backstories and the challenges they are facing in their present lives. Iona is a very interesting character whose life experiences make for an interesting read. With its engaging, well-paced narrative and a delightful cast of characters, Iona Iverson’s Rules for Commuting by Clare Pooley is an entertaining feel-good read full of heart , humor and wisdom that touches upon themes of ageism, loneliness, abusive relationships, cyberbullying and age-related illness among others . I paired my reading with the audio narration by Clare Corbett, which I thoroughly enjoyed.
September 8, 2022
Bunch of strangers meet on their daily commute to work in train. Bad impressions/first meeting fiascos soon blossoms in friendship. They learn from and inspire each other to face their insecurities and fears.
It was a cute story.
It was a cute story.
September 27, 2022
"Iona Iverson's Rules for Commuting" by Clare Pooley is a story about perceptions, kindness, and friendship!
Magazine Advice Columnist Extraordinaire, Iona Iverson, with her dog Lulu, commutes by train to work daily with the same group of people. She doesn't know their names, instead she creates nicknames for each of them based on her at-a-glance observations.
Everything changes on the day one of Iona's fellow commuters, the one she calls 'Smart-But-Sexist-Manspreader', chokes on a grape and is given the Heimlich maneuver in the nick of time. A single act of kindness between this odd mix of people who have absolutely nothing in common except their daily train ride, is the spark that lights the way to so much more entering their lives!
I love this story! The author creates a diverse group of characters who are in dire need of the ear and shoulder of a friend. Riding at the same time on the same trains together is, hands-down, the best thing that happens to all of them.
The audiobook narrator, Clare Corbett, does a fabulous job delivering the one-liner comments creatively written by the author. With ageism, bullying, anxiety, dementia, and sensitive relationship issues to cover it's easier to digest these hard topics when served with a happy dose of humor on the side.
I'm happy to report that Iona Iverson is officially my newest favorite character! We all need someone like her in our lives. This is an emotional, inspiring, humorous, and delightful read/listen that I highly recommend!
Magazine Advice Columnist Extraordinaire, Iona Iverson, with her dog Lulu, commutes by train to work daily with the same group of people. She doesn't know their names, instead she creates nicknames for each of them based on her at-a-glance observations.
Everything changes on the day one of Iona's fellow commuters, the one she calls 'Smart-But-Sexist-Manspreader', chokes on a grape and is given the Heimlich maneuver in the nick of time. A single act of kindness between this odd mix of people who have absolutely nothing in common except their daily train ride, is the spark that lights the way to so much more entering their lives!
I love this story! The author creates a diverse group of characters who are in dire need of the ear and shoulder of a friend. Riding at the same time on the same trains together is, hands-down, the best thing that happens to all of them.
The audiobook narrator, Clare Corbett, does a fabulous job delivering the one-liner comments creatively written by the author. With ageism, bullying, anxiety, dementia, and sensitive relationship issues to cover it's easier to digest these hard topics when served with a happy dose of humor on the side.
I'm happy to report that Iona Iverson is officially my newest favorite character! We all need someone like her in our lives. This is an emotional, inspiring, humorous, and delightful read/listen that I highly recommend!
June 1, 2022
1. You must have a job to get to
2. Never talk to strangers on the train
3. Don't consume hot food
4. Never give up a seat once occupied unless (a) it's for a pregnant lady (b) it's for someone old or infirm (c) Iona tells you to
5. Always pack for any eventuality
These are Iona's rules. She is an eccentric and colorful commuter with her large bag packed for any eventuality and her dog Lulu in the seat beside her. Fellow commuters give her nicknames like Rainbow Lady or Magic Bag Woman. They are all a bit afraid of her and at other times a bit annoyed. That is before she breaks rule #2 and they get to know her. What I loved about this book was the way the commuters rallied around each other to help out with some serious problems to offer employment counselling, help with cyberbullying and an obsessive boyfriend, and panic attacks -- just to name a few. This book gently works through the issues at hand with a heart that sees and cares. Should be a popular pick for book groups.
Thank you to Pamela Dorman Books and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
2. Never talk to strangers on the train
3. Don't consume hot food
4. Never give up a seat once occupied unless (a) it's for a pregnant lady (b) it's for someone old or infirm (c) Iona tells you to
5. Always pack for any eventuality
These are Iona's rules. She is an eccentric and colorful commuter with her large bag packed for any eventuality and her dog Lulu in the seat beside her. Fellow commuters give her nicknames like Rainbow Lady or Magic Bag Woman. They are all a bit afraid of her and at other times a bit annoyed. That is before she breaks rule #2 and they get to know her. What I loved about this book was the way the commuters rallied around each other to help out with some serious problems to offer employment counselling, help with cyberbullying and an obsessive boyfriend, and panic attacks -- just to name a few. This book gently works through the issues at hand with a heart that sees and cares. Should be a popular pick for book groups.
Thank you to Pamela Dorman Books and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
July 15, 2022
The audio narration was top notch!!!
Further review to come.
Further review to come.
October 6, 2022
Thank you GR friend Terrie R. for recently reviewing “Iona Iverson’s Rules for Commuting” by Clare Pooley. I needed a quick sweet friendship sort of read and this was delightful. What are these rules you ask? Well:
1.You must have a job to get to
2. Never talk to strangers on the train
3. Don't consume hot food
4. Never give up a seat once occupied unless (a) it's for a pregnant lady (b) it's for someone old or infirm (c) Iona tells you to
5. Always pack for any eventuality
Number 5 was my favorite, the magic bag lady. How much stuff can one woman stuff into a bag? Iona is prepared for it all.
Iona is a larger-than-life “ex” influencer who still influences. She tall, noticeable, and not at all apologetic. She sits in the same train car every morning, sees the same commuters, and has pet names for them all like “Smart-But-Sexist-Manspreader” (if you commute, you know of whom she’s speaking) and Terribly-Lonely-Teenager. Anyone who has commuted for years, at the same time on the same train will see the same people. And of course, who cannot resist the allure of giving them pet names. What’s fun is that they all have pet names for her as well.
When the manspreader chokes on a grape one morning, Sanjay, a young anxious nurse comes to the rescue after Iona calls for help. That one event unites five of the commuters.
Through time each of the five characters reveals something sensitive about themselves or fall on hard times. Iona is an advice columnist for a staid woman’s magazine. Iona used to be wild and intrepid, married to the love of her life, tall, beautiful and very black Bea.
What I enjoyed about the story is that author Pooley shows how people aren’t what they appear to be. The friendships formed are charming and adorable.
The chapters are character driven and short. This makes for a fast-paced story that keeps the reader engaged. Also, if you ever commuted, you would find this one to be hilarious.
I listened to the audio, narrated by the impeccable Clare Corbett. It was 8 and half hours of enjoyment.
1.You must have a job to get to
2. Never talk to strangers on the train
3. Don't consume hot food
4. Never give up a seat once occupied unless (a) it's for a pregnant lady (b) it's for someone old or infirm (c) Iona tells you to
5. Always pack for any eventuality
Number 5 was my favorite, the magic bag lady. How much stuff can one woman stuff into a bag? Iona is prepared for it all.
Iona is a larger-than-life “ex” influencer who still influences. She tall, noticeable, and not at all apologetic. She sits in the same train car every morning, sees the same commuters, and has pet names for them all like “Smart-But-Sexist-Manspreader” (if you commute, you know of whom she’s speaking) and Terribly-Lonely-Teenager. Anyone who has commuted for years, at the same time on the same train will see the same people. And of course, who cannot resist the allure of giving them pet names. What’s fun is that they all have pet names for her as well.
When the manspreader chokes on a grape one morning, Sanjay, a young anxious nurse comes to the rescue after Iona calls for help. That one event unites five of the commuters.
Through time each of the five characters reveals something sensitive about themselves or fall on hard times. Iona is an advice columnist for a staid woman’s magazine. Iona used to be wild and intrepid, married to the love of her life, tall, beautiful and very black Bea.
What I enjoyed about the story is that author Pooley shows how people aren’t what they appear to be. The friendships formed are charming and adorable.
The chapters are character driven and short. This makes for a fast-paced story that keeps the reader engaged. Also, if you ever commuted, you would find this one to be hilarious.
I listened to the audio, narrated by the impeccable Clare Corbett. It was 8 and half hours of enjoyment.
March 19, 2022
What a wonderful book, full of such beautiful and vivid characters.
The writing is fantastic, I really fell in love with Iona and was deeply invested in all of their stories.
It’s incredibly easy to read, it’s feel good, it’s warm, it’s certainly one to bump up your TBR list.
My only complaint is that I wish there was more of it. 5/5 stars.
The writing is fantastic, I really fell in love with Iona and was deeply invested in all of their stories.
It’s incredibly easy to read, it’s feel good, it’s warm, it’s certainly one to bump up your TBR list.
My only complaint is that I wish there was more of it. 5/5 stars.
June 24, 2024
5/5 ⭐️ This was such a delight to read! It includes a cast of unique and lovable characters who commute on the same train daily. The bonds formed in this story were so beautiful! This was heartfelt and funny! Just what I needed after a stressful work week. It also had aspects of found family which I’m always looking for in books. There was also a sweet romance on the side that I was so invested in as well 😭❤️.
I just had such a wonderful time with this book. It was beautiful, heartwarming, and funny. I loved every minute of it. Now I’m on my way to read this author’s entire backlist 🙂↕️.
I just had such a wonderful time with this book. It was beautiful, heartwarming, and funny. I loved every minute of it. Now I’m on my way to read this author’s entire backlist 🙂↕️.
August 31, 2024
I was absolutely in love with this author’s book, “The Authenticity Project.” Review here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
So…When I heard she had another book out, this one, I wanted to read it.
This story is about riding on a commuter train and the people we never really talk to or meet, until we do.
Afterall…It is one of the golden rules of commuting to never talk to each other.
But…When a man begins choking on a grape, everything changes.
Before you know it…
The characters are involved in each other’s lives.
And…That is a good thing. Lives are upended, and each one finds solace in the other as friendships are formed.
This novel is truly charming, funny and poignant. The ensemble cast is endearing because they are realistic and complex and enough for readers to hope for their success. Their fears and struggles are so real, it isn’t unusual to wonder if we have met these folks before on a commuter train.
Plus…Iona. A tough and witty lesbian who is also tender and kind of heart. As readers we grow fond of her in-your-face spunky banter.
And…She is courageous. She loves fiercely and speaks pointedly, whether others are ready for it or not. She is a wonderful heroine with flaws that make her truly worthy for being cared about in an era of exclusion and violent disapproval.
If…You love unlikely friendships and heartwarming intergenerational relationships with characters you can root for, this is the book to read.
Besides…Some of the best things happen when we break the rules for commuting! Empathy blooms.
So…When I heard she had another book out, this one, I wanted to read it.
This story is about riding on a commuter train and the people we never really talk to or meet, until we do.
Afterall…It is one of the golden rules of commuting to never talk to each other.
But…When a man begins choking on a grape, everything changes.
Before you know it…
The characters are involved in each other’s lives.
And…That is a good thing. Lives are upended, and each one finds solace in the other as friendships are formed.
This novel is truly charming, funny and poignant. The ensemble cast is endearing because they are realistic and complex and enough for readers to hope for their success. Their fears and struggles are so real, it isn’t unusual to wonder if we have met these folks before on a commuter train.
Plus…Iona. A tough and witty lesbian who is also tender and kind of heart. As readers we grow fond of her in-your-face spunky banter.
And…She is courageous. She loves fiercely and speaks pointedly, whether others are ready for it or not. She is a wonderful heroine with flaws that make her truly worthy for being cared about in an era of exclusion and violent disapproval.
If…You love unlikely friendships and heartwarming intergenerational relationships with characters you can root for, this is the book to read.
Besides…Some of the best things happen when we break the rules for commuting! Empathy blooms.
July 15, 2022
Iona Iverson- you are one of a kind. and the world needs more people like you.
𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐀 𝐈𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐎𝐍'𝐒 𝐑𝐔𝐋𝐄𝐒 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐌𝐔𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆 was like a warm hug for my heart. It is charming and endearing and I absolutely loved it. I loved how something as innocuous as the daily commute can bring strangers together to complete the piece of the puzzle they most needed. It reminded me of the good in people. It reminded me that a beautiful life is made of all the parts- both good and bad. The writing provided a blend of contemplative elements paired with lighter, jovial moments. This book was such a positive pick-me-up. The right book at the right time.
P.S. Clare Pooley's debut novel, The Authenticity Project, was equally lovely.
“𝘐𝘵 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘴 𝘮𝘦 𝘧𝘶𝘳𝘪𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘢𝘴 𝘮𝘦𝘯 𝘢𝘨𝘦, 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘨𝘢𝘪𝘯 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘵𝘢𝘴. 𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦 “𝘴𝘪𝘭𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘹𝘦𝘴.” 𝘞𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯, 𝘩𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳, 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘷𝘪𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘭𝘦. 𝘞𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘯𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘯, 𝘮𝘺 𝘧𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘴. 𝘞𝘦 𝘮𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘣𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘐𝘰𝘯𝘢. 𝘞𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘦, 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘐𝘰𝘯𝘢, 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘢 𝘛𝘳𝘪𝘶𝘮𝘱𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘚𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘥 𝘈𝘤𝘵.”
𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐀 𝐈𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐎𝐍'𝐒 𝐑𝐔𝐋𝐄𝐒 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐌𝐔𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆 was like a warm hug for my heart. It is charming and endearing and I absolutely loved it. I loved how something as innocuous as the daily commute can bring strangers together to complete the piece of the puzzle they most needed. It reminded me of the good in people. It reminded me that a beautiful life is made of all the parts- both good and bad. The writing provided a blend of contemplative elements paired with lighter, jovial moments. This book was such a positive pick-me-up. The right book at the right time.
P.S. Clare Pooley's debut novel, The Authenticity Project, was equally lovely.
“𝘐𝘵 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘴 𝘮𝘦 𝘧𝘶𝘳𝘪𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘢𝘴 𝘮𝘦𝘯 𝘢𝘨𝘦, 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘨𝘢𝘪𝘯 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘵𝘢𝘴. 𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦 “𝘴𝘪𝘭𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘹𝘦𝘴.” 𝘞𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯, 𝘩𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳, 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘷𝘪𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘭𝘦. 𝘞𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘯𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘯, 𝘮𝘺 𝘧𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘴. 𝘞𝘦 𝘮𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘣𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘐𝘰𝘯𝘢. 𝘞𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘦, 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘐𝘰𝘯𝘢, 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘢 𝘛𝘳𝘪𝘶𝘮𝘱𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘚𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘥 𝘈𝘤𝘵.”
March 25, 2024
The People on Platform 5 by Clare Pooley, the book is now titled as "Iona Iverson's Rules for Commuting." How many of you ever communicate with person sitting next to you in your daily commute or while traveling be it a train, bus or metro, etc.
This story is a heartwarming novel about unexpected friendships and the joy of connecting. I did not enjoy the writing style for some reason. I was bored half way through the book, I did not care about any characters nor Iona for some reason. The situation felt very fake and set-up, wished for more natural occurances.
An interesting event takes place and brings these people together and an eclectic group of people with almost nothing in common except their commute discover that a chance encounter can blossom into much more. It turns out that talking to strangers can teach you about the world around you--and even more about yourself.
This story is a heartwarming novel about unexpected friendships and the joy of connecting. I did not enjoy the writing style for some reason. I was bored half way through the book, I did not care about any characters nor Iona for some reason. The situation felt very fake and set-up, wished for more natural occurances.
An interesting event takes place and brings these people together and an eclectic group of people with almost nothing in common except their commute discover that a chance encounter can blossom into much more. It turns out that talking to strangers can teach you about the world around you--and even more about yourself.
May 30, 2023
Gawdddddd! I adored this book!! 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽 ABSOLUTELY PERFECT!!
June 10, 2022
Ridiculously awful. A 57 year old character depicted as if she’s in her 80’s, wears Doc Martens yet is clueless about TikTok. Do yourself a favor and read something else!
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January 14, 2024This was delightful and I see why it's so popular. I don't usually love a big cast book, but this one worked for me.
October 8, 2022
Rating 2.75
At first Iona seemed like she would be an Eleanor Oliphant type which initially raised hope. But as the story plays out we come to realize she's little more than an aging lesbian who enjoys counseling strangers she sees regularly on the train.
Based in the outskirts of London, Iona commutes with Lulu her pug, which draws attention from the other commuters. Regimented, she sits at the same table on her regular route and it's here she meets Piers, Sanjay, Martha, David and Emmie. Like most, each have issues they're coping with and as they connect with Iona, she offers advice for each and as its adopted, they realize what a gift it was to meet her.
Working for a woman's magazine, Iona grew popular over the years due to advice given to those struggling with life. In her 50s, she'd lived with her long time partner, Bea, who began to suffer with early Alzheimer symptoms and was eventually placed in a home. Her editor decides the magazine needs to attract a younger demographic and soon she's put on notice.
The author uses a standard approach toggling chapters focused on each of the characters. And while it's relatively well written and paced, the predictability of characters and plot are disappointing. It's difficult not to like Iona, whose back story is rife with the unusual. That said, the other characters are mundane which doesn't help with engagement.
Woven into the story fabric are themes of loss, romance and redemption which in my opinion failed to save it. I realize most may disagree with this summary, but like all arts, we're each drawn to something different.
At first Iona seemed like she would be an Eleanor Oliphant type which initially raised hope. But as the story plays out we come to realize she's little more than an aging lesbian who enjoys counseling strangers she sees regularly on the train.
Based in the outskirts of London, Iona commutes with Lulu her pug, which draws attention from the other commuters. Regimented, she sits at the same table on her regular route and it's here she meets Piers, Sanjay, Martha, David and Emmie. Like most, each have issues they're coping with and as they connect with Iona, she offers advice for each and as its adopted, they realize what a gift it was to meet her.
Working for a woman's magazine, Iona grew popular over the years due to advice given to those struggling with life. In her 50s, she'd lived with her long time partner, Bea, who began to suffer with early Alzheimer symptoms and was eventually placed in a home. Her editor decides the magazine needs to attract a younger demographic and soon she's put on notice.
The author uses a standard approach toggling chapters focused on each of the characters. And while it's relatively well written and paced, the predictability of characters and plot are disappointing. It's difficult not to like Iona, whose back story is rife with the unusual. That said, the other characters are mundane which doesn't help with engagement.
Woven into the story fabric are themes of loss, romance and redemption which in my opinion failed to save it. I realize most may disagree with this summary, but like all arts, we're each drawn to something different.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 9, 2025
Клеър Пули е съчетала много приятно лекото с тежкото и закачливото с драматичното - в рамките на едно [не]стандартно пътуване с лондонското метро.
Забавната кикимора в ярки цветове (но съчетани с безспорен стил) и придружена от кучето си Лулу плаши всички останали пътници във вагона и никой не смее да седне до нея. Докато един типичен нервозен костюмар наблизо не се задавя с гроздова семка, предизвиквайки лавинообразна поредица от събития и взаимодействия между петима редовни пътници по маршрута, които необратимо променят живота на всички тях. Оказва се, че светът - който е често едно доста лошо място - по някакво намигване на съдбата може да се окаже и доста добро - ако всеки разшири мъничко затворения си личен балон и го засели с правилните спътници. Било то и в рамките на 30 минути сутрин и още 30 минути вечер.
Малките моменти имат значение. Защото целият живот е поредица от малки моменти. Британският хумор на Клеър Пули, съчетан с острото ѝ око и добронамерената ѝ оптимистична ирония не пропуска да ни намигне и да подаде ръка. Част от проблемите на съвременното (не само британско, но да кажем клонящо към западно) общество са директно разхвърляни в съдбите на героите.
Завършекът ми дойде малко набързо, и поне двама герои бяха предимно за пълнеж, но пък всичко беше така свежо и изчистено от морализаторски патос или пък комерсиално самодоволство, че се оказа направо идеално.
——
🧁”Никоя жена не е ничия „половинка". Всички ние сме цели хора. Напълно оформени, уникални. Но понякога, когато събереш две различни цели души, се получава някаква магия, алхимия. Бий казваше, че аз съм като яйцата и захарта, а тя - като брашното и маслото, и че когато ни смесиш, двете сме нещо повече от елементарна комбинация от съставки, ние сме цялата проклета торта. А проблемът е, че когато си свикнал да бъдеш великолепна, апетитна торта, е много, много трудно да приемеш, че отново си само яйца и захар.”🎂
Забавната кикимора в ярки цветове (но съчетани с безспорен стил) и придружена от кучето си Лулу плаши всички останали пътници във вагона и никой не смее да седне до нея. Докато един типичен нервозен костюмар наблизо не се задавя с гроздова семка, предизвиквайки лавинообразна поредица от събития и взаимодействия между петима редовни пътници по маршрута, които необратимо променят живота на всички тях. Оказва се, че светът - който е често едно доста лошо място - по някакво намигване на съдбата може да се окаже и доста добро - ако всеки разшири мъничко затворения си личен балон и го засели с правилните спътници. Било то и в рамките на 30 минути сутрин и още 30 минути вечер.
Малките моменти имат значение. Защото целият живот е поредица от малки моменти. Британският хумор на Клеър Пули, съчетан с острото ѝ око и добронамерената ѝ оптимистична ирония не пропуска да ни намигне и да подаде ръка. Част от проблемите на съвременното (не само британско, но да кажем клонящо към западно) общество са директно разхвърляни в съдбите на героите.
Завършекът ми дойде малко набързо, и поне двама герои бяха предимно за пълнеж, но пък всичко беше така свежо и изчистено от морализаторски патос или пък комерсиално самодоволство, че се оказа направо идеално.
——
🧁”Никоя жена не е ничия „половинка". Всички ние сме цели хора. Напълно оформени, уникални. Но понякога, когато събереш две различни цели души, се получава някаква магия, алхимия. Бий казваше, че аз съм като яйцата и захарта, а тя - като брашното и маслото, и че когато ни смесиш, двете сме нещо повече от елементарна комбинация от съставки, ние сме цялата проклета торта. А проблемът е, че когато си свикнал да бъдеш великолепна, апетитна торта, е много, много трудно да приемеш, че отново си само яйца и захар.”🎂
July 19, 2022
Arghhhh, this is annoying. I keep picking up books bc they seem fun and interesting and possibly entertaining but turn out to be a big bile of crap! First of all, the writing was incredibly juvenile. Second of all, not only the premise is preposterous, it really wasn't executed well. But what really did me in, was the characters!! I mean, can you say judgemental much? First chapter in and the lady who doesn't let anyone sit next to her bc of the DOG!! judges a "white, male, HETEROSEXUAL, and excessively solvent". Again with gay / straight nonsense! And again with "wealthy people are evil" premise. Are authors now too afraid to write good literature without checking all the boxes?
But hey, with almost solid 5 star reviews I bet this book will be the winner of some kind of GR award or something.
But hey, with almost solid 5 star reviews I bet this book will be the winner of some kind of GR award or something.
December 31, 2024
A pleasant and amusing book.
A nice, light, and enjoyable read with some lovely, interesting characters. Each chapter is a character that we get to know predominantly on the train, although we do see a bit of them at home and work. It's a joy to read, and I do recommend it to all my friends, and you won't be disappointed.
A nice, light, and enjoyable read with some lovely, interesting characters. Each chapter is a character that we get to know predominantly on the train, although we do see a bit of them at home and work. It's a joy to read, and I do recommend it to all my friends, and you won't be disappointed.
April 17, 2024
Actual Rating : 4.5
This story is about people who take the same train to work everyday, helping each other out even though they don't know each other. At first it takes some time to get to know the characters, but then you meet people you start to like, especially this fun lady named Iona. I really enjoyed reading this book. I need an Iona in my life!
The book deals with some sad topics like mental health problems. But overall, it makes you feel better after reading it. It shows how strangers can be nice to each other and become friends. Stories that leave you with a warm, fuzzy feeling inside, like A Man Called Ove, would also like this feel-good book about the good people can do for each other without even trying.
Enjoyed it a lot.
This story is about people who take the same train to work everyday, helping each other out even though they don't know each other. At first it takes some time to get to know the characters, but then you meet people you start to like, especially this fun lady named Iona. I really enjoyed reading this book. I need an Iona in my life!
The book deals with some sad topics like mental health problems. But overall, it makes you feel better after reading it. It shows how strangers can be nice to each other and become friends. Stories that leave you with a warm, fuzzy feeling inside, like A Man Called Ove, would also like this feel-good book about the good people can do for each other without even trying.
Enjoyed it a lot.
June 14, 2022
Thank you to Viking Books for sending me this adorable novel.
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Right now I’m gravitating towards stories that just make my heart happy. Stories that bring me joy and make me feel content, safe, and optimistic.
Stories that make me believe there is good in the world.
And Clare Pooley delivers every time.
THE AUTHENTICITY PROJECT is one of my favorite books and IONA IVERSON’S RULES FOR COMMUTING shines just as brightly, if not even brighter.
This book will just make you feel so special and loved.
It’s full of second chances, connections, friendship, forgiveness, honesty, and proof that people aren’t always just as they appear.
Everyone and everything isn’t perfect and shiny within these pages. There’s grief and loss and all sorts of struggles.
But Pooley shows us, yet again, that love always wins. It must win.
You will absolutely fall in love with Iona and Emmie and Sanjay and Martha and Piers and Jake and David. You will wish you could spend time with them on their commute and be part of their precious, special group.
Iona has my heart. She is a lovable T R I P. She will make you laugh out loud repeatedly and you will root and cheer for every dang character in this book. They’ll jump right off of the pages and into your heart.
5 shiny and feel-good stars to this precious gem of a book. 💫💫💫💫💫
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Right now I’m gravitating towards stories that just make my heart happy. Stories that bring me joy and make me feel content, safe, and optimistic.
Stories that make me believe there is good in the world.
And Clare Pooley delivers every time.
THE AUTHENTICITY PROJECT is one of my favorite books and IONA IVERSON’S RULES FOR COMMUTING shines just as brightly, if not even brighter.
This book will just make you feel so special and loved.
It’s full of second chances, connections, friendship, forgiveness, honesty, and proof that people aren’t always just as they appear.
Everyone and everything isn’t perfect and shiny within these pages. There’s grief and loss and all sorts of struggles.
But Pooley shows us, yet again, that love always wins. It must win.
You will absolutely fall in love with Iona and Emmie and Sanjay and Martha and Piers and Jake and David. You will wish you could spend time with them on their commute and be part of their precious, special group.
Iona has my heart. She is a lovable T R I P. She will make you laugh out loud repeatedly and you will root and cheer for every dang character in this book. They’ll jump right off of the pages and into your heart.
5 shiny and feel-good stars to this precious gem of a book. 💫💫💫💫💫
Read
November 27, 20223.5 stars
RTC
RTC
September 5, 2025
This book has just the right mix of humor, heart, and real-life messiness. I loved how a group of total strangers slowly became something like a found family, just by crossing paths on a train.
The characters are all memorable and endearing, each with their own quirks, baggage, and charm. The writing is warm and witty, and the story is a reminder that it's never too late to rediscover yourself or your people, even when it feels like life has already happened to you.
The characters are all memorable and endearing, each with their own quirks, baggage, and charm. The writing is warm and witty, and the story is a reminder that it's never too late to rediscover yourself or your people, even when it feels like life has already happened to you.
September 29, 2022
What would it be like to be looking for your footing as a 50-something, feeling generationally out of place in your job? Or as a young woman grappling with the start of an exhilarating but sometimes stifling relationship? As a middle-aged professional suddenly fired from the only job and identity he’s really known? As a teenager forced to confront one of her worst mistakes at every turn? Iona Iverson’s Rules for Commuting brings together an assortment of seemingly dissimilar train commuters who come from very different backgrounds but all share this common thread: their mooring has come loose, and beneath their polite and cool British exteriors, each is quite desperately in need of help to find a new path forward.
I’ve come to realize there’s a certain subgenre that’s all about lonely people finding their community, and I’m absolutely here for it, especially when it’s blended with a good deal of quirk and charm — which Iona, a bold character who has spent the last thirty years writing a therapy column for a magazine, delivers by the truckload.
It’s not hard to root for these characters, nor to fall for their charm within just a few pages. It treads just a bit too heavily into cliches (and honestly, I think Iona should have been older than 57 for the way her age was talked about), but if you don’t think too heavily about it, Clare Pooley has given you lots to cheer for, in a lighthearted easy read.
July 20, 2022
this! was! so! delightful!
iona is a very hip, very evelyn-hugo (but less aggressive) magazine columnist who takes a train every day to work. it is a Known Fact that one does not speak to strangers on public transit. one day this changes, and the result is the creation of incredibly charming group of fast friends:
- a kind bookworm facing an anonymous threat at her job as a digital marketer
- a nurse who loves his patients so much he struggles to do his work with confidence
- a young student facing bullying in school after an ex-boyfriend leaked some sensitive pictures
- a callous, pretentious investment banker who's carrying some serious baggage
- an estate lawyer facing the potential end of a 40-year marriage
- and iona, of course, the beating heart of the group (and this book) and a lesbian celebrity icon during her youth
most of the story takes place over the course of many months, told (primarily) through their interactions on the train. reading this is like being wrapped up in a big fuzzy blanket. clare pooley's prose is the type of quirky & fun that does not make me want to die (a difficult feat). but the best part about this is that it's also a whole lot deeper than it might seem on the surface; the second act in particular deals with some serious stuff, i was stunned with how much ground this book covered (and so very compassionately).
this is a biiiiig comfort read, and i'll come back to it in the future when i feel like i need to be a Little More Iona (and, as you'll see, we could really all benefit from that). read if you like books that make you feel held.
easy 4.5, rounding up because of how light + crisp + happy life will seem for 3-5 business days after reading
iona is a very hip, very evelyn-hugo (but less aggressive) magazine columnist who takes a train every day to work. it is a Known Fact that one does not speak to strangers on public transit. one day this changes, and the result is the creation of incredibly charming group of fast friends:
- a kind bookworm facing an anonymous threat at her job as a digital marketer
- a nurse who loves his patients so much he struggles to do his work with confidence
- a young student facing bullying in school after an ex-boyfriend leaked some sensitive pictures
- a callous, pretentious investment banker who's carrying some serious baggage
- an estate lawyer facing the potential end of a 40-year marriage
- and iona, of course, the beating heart of the group (and this book) and a lesbian celebrity icon during her youth
most of the story takes place over the course of many months, told (primarily) through their interactions on the train. reading this is like being wrapped up in a big fuzzy blanket. clare pooley's prose is the type of quirky & fun that does not make me want to die (a difficult feat). but the best part about this is that it's also a whole lot deeper than it might seem on the surface; the second act in particular deals with some serious stuff, i was stunned with how much ground this book covered (and so very compassionately).
this is a biiiiig comfort read, and i'll come back to it in the future when i feel like i need to be a Little More Iona (and, as you'll see, we could really all benefit from that). read if you like books that make you feel held.
easy 4.5, rounding up because of how light + crisp + happy life will seem for 3-5 business days after reading
January 11, 2023
Το πρώτο βιβλίο που ολοκλήρωσα το 2023 κα συνειδητοποίησα ότι θα βαθμολογώ τα βιβλία με βάση πόσο τα διασκέδασα. Και το συγκεκριμένο το διασκέδασα πολύ.
"Αυτό σημαίνει ότι δεν βρήκες ψεγάδια;"
Όχι δα.
Εντάξει, είχε πολλά κλισέ (ναι παντού υπάρχουν κλισέ, εννοώ κλισέ με την έννοια του στριφογυρίζω ελαφρώς τα μάτια μου μειδιάζοντας) και εντάξει, ώρες- ώρες οι τάχα υπαινιγμοί για την πλοκή ήταν μάλλον μασημένη τροφή για τον αναγνώστη, ενώ θα έλεγα ότι ήταν επηρεασμένο από τη νεοκουλτούρα της εποχής του πολιτικώς ορθού και του "woke", στο βαθμό που ένας ενήλικας της γενιάς των '70 αντιλαμβάνεται και αναπαράγει τις έννοιες. Αλλά δεν με ενόχλησε τίποτα κατά την ανάγνωση. Και πιθανόν η απουσία τους να ήταν πιο ηχηρή από την ολίγον τι αναμασημένη παρουσία τους.
"Άρα το Πράσινο Σημειωματάριο της συγγραφέως θα το διάβασες;" Αμέ.
"Αυτό σημαίνει ότι δεν βρήκες ψεγάδια;"
Όχι δα.
Εντάξει, είχε πολλά κλισέ (ναι παντού υπάρχουν κλισέ, εννοώ κλισέ με την έννοια του στριφογυρίζω ελαφρώς τα μάτια μου μειδιάζοντας) και εντάξει, ώρες- ώρες οι τάχα υπαινιγμοί για την πλοκή ήταν μάλλον μασημένη τροφή για τον αναγνώστη, ενώ θα έλεγα ότι ήταν επηρεασμένο από τη νεοκουλτούρα της εποχής του πολιτικώς ορθού και του "woke", στο βαθμό που ένας ενήλικας της γενιάς των '70 αντιλαμβάνεται και αναπαράγει τις έννοιες. Αλλά δεν με ενόχλησε τίποτα κατά την ανάγνωση. Και πιθανόν η απουσία τους να ήταν πιο ηχηρή από την ολίγον τι αναμασημένη παρουσία τους.
"Άρα το Πράσινο Σημειωματάριο της συγγραφέως θα το διάβασες;" Αμέ.
February 4, 2023
The Peopke on Platforn 5 is certainly heartfelt story. It is not romance but how strangers intereact with each other and helps each other. Some of the conversation is heavy and contains mental health issues.
I am having great time getting to know all of the individuals and learning together with them. All of them are wonderful people who just needs some reminder and intervention from strangers.
4 stars
I am having great time getting to know all of the individuals and learning together with them. All of them are wonderful people who just needs some reminder and intervention from strangers.
4 stars
November 25, 2022
This book was raw. Uncooked. Unseasoned. There was nothing wrong with the meat being cooked, except no one ever cooked it. Why buy a chicken breast if you don't having anything to cook it in?
If you're not picking up what I'm putting down, the basis of this book had potential. The idea was cute and with a little salt, could have actually been good. If the characters were more than one-dimensional, they could have been likeable. If their relationships with one another became any more complex than the friendships between Mickey Mouse characters, I might have cared. None if it was very plausible and it read like a children's Little Book.
I was quite excited for this and put in quite a bit of effort to enjoy it. Unfortunately, I just found no substance within its pages. It was the wrong book to choose not only at the time, but in general.
It was not the worst piece of literature I have ever read by any means, but a two-star rating signifies my infinite feelings of apathy. I feel nothing for this book. Or its characters. Or the plot. I don't even feel enough to hate it. It just exists. Without impact. Like a cloud. Sure, we all see the clouds and maybe sometimes we want to touch them, but if you touch a cloud, you then realize theres actually nothing to touch. I picked this book up, read it, and then realized there was hardly anything to read. This book is a cloud.
If you're not picking up what I'm putting down, the basis of this book had potential. The idea was cute and with a little salt, could have actually been good. If the characters were more than one-dimensional, they could have been likeable. If their relationships with one another became any more complex than the friendships between Mickey Mouse characters, I might have cared. None if it was very plausible and it read like a children's Little Book.
I was quite excited for this and put in quite a bit of effort to enjoy it. Unfortunately, I just found no substance within its pages. It was the wrong book to choose not only at the time, but in general.
It was not the worst piece of literature I have ever read by any means, but a two-star rating signifies my infinite feelings of apathy. I feel nothing for this book. Or its characters. Or the plot. I don't even feel enough to hate it. It just exists. Without impact. Like a cloud. Sure, we all see the clouds and maybe sometimes we want to touch them, but if you touch a cloud, you then realize theres actually nothing to touch. I picked this book up, read it, and then realized there was hardly anything to read. This book is a cloud.
June 13, 2022
Thank you to Tandem Collective Global and Penguin Canada for sending along a copy for review!
RATING: 2.5
This book is a quick and easy read about a group of strangers who become friends as they take the same train almost everyday. A few of them are quirky, and endearing!
What bugs me though is that I think this book falls prey to wanting to tackle too many issues, and not everything working seamlessly together. Sure, we ARE dealing with the lives of quite a few different characters…but when you throw in unemployment, panic attacks / not feeling like you’re up for your job, a controlling & manipulative relationship, ageism…ya, some storylines were developed more, and others (like the controlling relationship) were just left alone with a fairytale ending that doesn’t make sense.
The storyline is nothing special and neither are the characters though…but if you’re looking for something that reads fast, this is for you.
RATING: 2.5
This book is a quick and easy read about a group of strangers who become friends as they take the same train almost everyday. A few of them are quirky, and endearing!
What bugs me though is that I think this book falls prey to wanting to tackle too many issues, and not everything working seamlessly together. Sure, we ARE dealing with the lives of quite a few different characters…but when you throw in unemployment, panic attacks / not feeling like you’re up for your job, a controlling & manipulative relationship, ageism…ya, some storylines were developed more, and others (like the controlling relationship) were just left alone with a fairytale ending that doesn’t make sense.
The storyline is nothing special and neither are the characters though…but if you’re looking for something that reads fast, this is for you.
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