How to Age Disgracefully: A Novel by Clare Pooley

Lydia's expectations of running the Senior Citizens’ Social Club are shattered when she encounters a colorful cast of characters. From Art, a former actor turned kleptomaniac, to Daphne, hiding from a dark past, and Ruby, a Banksy-style knitter, each member harbors secrets beneath their benign facade. As age renders them invisible, the seniors find solace in their shared camaraderie.

When the city council threatens to sell the community center, the Social Club bands together with their neighbors from the daycare next door. With the help of a teen dad and a geriatric dog, they embark on a mission to save their beloved building. Their unorthodox methods—ranging from quirky to outright absurd—offer a glimmer of hope, but they must stay one step ahead of the authorities.

As the stakes escalate, the bond between the seniors and their pint-sized allies strengthens. Together, they navigate challenges, laughter, and unexpected friendships, proving that age is no barrier to adventure. Yet, looming over their efforts is the ever-present risk of being caught.

Clare Pooley’s ensemble comedy masterfully intertwines the lives of disparate characters united by a common cause. Through humor and heart, she explores themes of community, resilience, and the power of connection across generations. As the eclectic group confronts the threat to their cherished space, they discover that, despite their differences, they are stronger together.

With its blend of wit and warmth, Pooley's tale celebrates the vibrancy of life at every age and the enduring spirit of human solidarity.