Review: Three Things I Did When My Father Died by Alex McKechnie

This book surprised me in many ways. One: if I didn't know who the author was, I'd never believe this book was written by a young man. I'd certainly think it belongs to some middle-aged author with a list of bestsellers under his name. The writing style is something I don't see often, and the way it was used here, this detalization and realism, blew my mind. Two: the story and character development was a pleasant surprise. You get to see Daniel's character evolution from bitterness and denial to maturity and peace. And the best thing is, this book won't feel heavy on your shoulders as you read; no, it's full of subtle humour and charm. It's an easy read, and it's not. It will make you think and feel and ache, but not in a way that make you put the book down and not want to touch it again. This is the kind of books that great movies are made of. In many ways it reminded me of "The Judge".

Three: it's a short read, but it didn't feel like it. The style is simple and complex at the same time. And what you get in the end is a many-leveled story, the depth of which is fascinating and very life-like. Even from the first chapters I often found myself smiling and laughing. I could relate to every chapter of this book, and it reminded me of many important things. Oh, and the idea of new words for things that don't have a name in English? Floud and shameshrink are so in my vocabulary now) These are only three things that I pointed out, but I can also add amazing characters (hello, Grandma), funny subplots (their hedge art, that one goes straight to my bucket list), and a deep idea that for sure will influence every reader. No matter at what age, we all have family issues, and whether you're 20 or 40, this book is a must read. For sure, I will follow Alex McKechnie's work in future, because talented authors like him will never stop surprising us with their ideas.

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