THE GUNCLE

It’s hard to imagine a more perfect summer book than this one, infused with heart, humor and hope! In The Guncle, former sitcom star Patrick O’Hara is in self imposed exile in Palm Springs when he must step in to care for his brother’s children, who have tragically lost their mother. Still reeling from the loss of his one great love years ago, and firmly committed to his reclusive, cocktail-centric existence, GUP (gay uncle Patrick) must suddenly pivot to pool floats and puppies. In the desert heat, Patrick and his new wards Maisie and Grant learn how to open their hearts, begin to heal and find a path forward together.

If you love stories that make you both laugh out loud and cry actual tears, here is your new favorite summer novel. The Guncle is a wonderfully charming, heartfelt read that combines humor with substance, and is perfect for readers celebrating Pride month (or just enjoy caftans). I loved seeing these characters bond and grow - I didn’t want to say goodbye to them on the last page. I haven’t enjoyed a book about a reluctant caregiver with a steep learning curve so much since Nothing to See Here, a personal 5-star fave. Believe the bookstagram adulation, and put this great big hug of a book on your TBR.

GUP, Maisie and Grant’s pie-a-palooza is my inspiration for this spread! I made key lime and lemon meringue, plus “snowman pie” which I took the culinary liberty of interpreting as ice-cream-and-berries-in-a pie-shell (hope that would be ok with Grant). Guncle Rule number one may say that brunch is splendid, but cold pies are definitely divine! Recipe credit: @sallysbakeblog