Childish Things

Satirical and yet compassionate, Childish Things begins with a funeral at which Gregor McLeod, a retired school-master aged 72, is mourning the death of his wife Kate. It soon becomes evident, however, that McLeod has been something of a womaniser and, despite his very recent (and heartfelt) bereavement, is being pursued by an assortment of attractive women. Jenkins proceeds to explore McLeod’s adventurous escapades with these ladies both at home and abroad. The result is a tremendously compelling comic novel which retains all the sharpness, wit and pace that is customary from Jenkins, combined with a mellow, wry wisdom that never fails to entertain. His central theme, do we ever outgrow ‘childish things’?, is explored with captivating insight and delicious humour. This is a gloriously readable novel from a consummate storyteller.

Reviews of Childish Things

* Richly comic and satirical. Scottish Book Collector * a prolific and accomplished writer. The Times * This is a book which is a sheer delight. It never flags and every page makes you want to read the next. Sunday Herald * As a story teller, Jenkins has few equals. Cynicism and slickness are out. Pace and razor-sharp observations are in. Tribune * He covers serious themes with a deceptively light, engaging tone. His upbeat take on sexuality suggests a male Isla Dewar, or a grown-up Mike Gayle. The List