This Upper Middle Grade/YA book tells the story of a 13 year old named David who is slowly coming to terms with his mother's decision to leave, while trying to be there for his dad who is not handling it as well and navigating middle school. When a middle aged Englishman named Winston shows up in his life, David finds the advice he needs coming from the most unlThis Upper Middle Grade/YA book tells the story of a 13 year old named David who is slowly coming to terms with his mother's decision to leave, while trying to be there for his dad who is not handling it as well and navigating middle school. When a middle aged Englishman named Winston shows up in his life, David finds the advice he needs coming from the most unlikely place.

I would say this book is a good fit for older middle grade readers, as it does address some more serious themes and there is mention of dating which many younger middle graders aren't quite ready for. The humour is also more on the clever/witty side than the silly slapstick/toilet humour type thing you often find in younger middle grade books. I can definitely see readers enjoying the content and appreciating the storyline, as well as the humour and the heartfelt moments throughout.

Thanks to netgalley for giving me the chance to read this book.

I had a hard time staying interested in the first 95% of the story. The last 5% was excellent. I would recommend it to a student that I felt could connect to the story, but I’m not sure most would be able to stick with it. The reveal at the end did surprise me.

With a touch of paranormal humor, this book dives into several tough, family issues while packing wit and tons of heart.

David's mom left, leaving him and his dad alone. He can deal with it, although he's not thrilled, but his dad is another story. When David notices a strange man walking down his street, he's not sure the guy exists or if he's a hallucination, especially when the man hovers outside of his window one night. Convinced he's going crazy, (because who wouldn't?) David does his best to deal with his dad's worsening situation, his bad grades, his friendships, and his first girlfriend. It's all quite a bit to take in, but the strange man...or ghost he's beginning to believe...seems to offer him the best advice. Until he doesn't and reveals something David never wanted to know.

This read starts right in with the action as David sees Winston, the strange man, and that, a few times. The beginning has a rapid-fire atmosphere as David's first interactions with Winston are delivered in very short scenes, one right after the other. There are just enough thoughts and comments from David to get a feel for his personality...right along with the weirdness the entire situation involves. Only then, does the author seep into David's life and the various issues he's up against. It's a wonderful way to ease the reader into the tough themes and sympathize with David.

While this is sold for middle graders, I'm nudging my recommendation up a little bit toward the upper middle grade and lower young adult audiences. The writing and wit is better suited for the older age group and, I'm afraid, will be lost on younger readers. Plus, some of the issues might be a bit much for younger readers (alcoholism, death, breaking up with first girl/boyfriends, and more).

There is tons of heart in this read, and it mixes smoothly with the paranormal aspect and humor...not a silly humor but weaves more around clever wording and thought. There is so much to smirk, smile, and nod at. While there are moments where the reader spends time in David's head, this is very well-balanced with the quick rows of dialogue—I say 'rows' because it rattles along, one person after the other without even a breath in between. It wasn't quite my thing but does come across with intended potency. There's definitely not much room for boredom, while it gives food for thought and rakes at the heartstrings in the most meaningful ways.

Definitely a fun concept done well. I typically have a hard time with books written for a younger audience but due to the premise I wanted to give this a try and I was not disappointed.

A middlegrade story with a unique, touching and enigmatic friendship in it. Winston's presence meaned a lot to David, especially during a difficult time on the nose. A heartwarming story but there was also a truth that David himself had to face from his friendship with Winston.