The Funny Thing about Norman Foreman

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What to expect

Brought to you by Penguin.

The inspiring, feel-good Richard & Judy Book Club pick about a small boy with a big heart - and even bigger dreams.

It was a journey they would always remember . . . for a friend they'd never forget.

Norman and Jax are a legendary comedic duo in waiting, with a five-year plan to perform at the Edinburgh Fringe by the time they're fifteen. But when Jax dies before they turn twelve, Norman decides a tribute act for his best friend just can't wait, so he rewrites their plan:

1. Look after Mum
2. Find Dad
3. Get to the Edinburgh Fringe

Sadie knows she won't win Mother of the Year and she's not proud she doesn't know who her son's father is. But when she finds Norman's list, all she wants is to see her son smile again. So, enlisting the help of eccentric friend Leonard - an 84-year-old veteran with superior planning skills and a thirst for adventure! - they set off on a pilgrimage to Edinburgh, making a few stops to find Norman's dad along the way.

'One of those gorgeous books that completely lifts your spirits and restores your faith in humanity' - Ruth Jones, co-creator of Gavin and Stacey and bestselling author of Us Three

'An uplifting tale of love, loss and the redemptive power of humour' - Mail on Sunday

'Charming, funny and cheering' - Beth Morrey, author of Saving Missy

'As moving as it is funny. And it's very funny' - Romesh Ranganathan

'He's wheedled his way into my heart, and I suspect I'll have a Norman-shaped hole there forever' - Clare Pooley, author of The Authenticity Project

© Julietta Henderson 2021 (P) Penguin Audio 2021

Critics Review

  • One of those gorgeous books that completely lifts your spirits and restores your faith in humanity. An utterly lovely tale.

    Ruth Jones

  • An uplifting tale of love, loss and the redemptive power of humour.

    Mail on Sunday

  • What a charming, funny and cheering read. There’s such a lovely, buoyant innocence to Norman and his quest – a coming-of-age that tickles and moves in equal measure. The writing is sharp but tender and in the same way that Marcus in About a Boy strengthens his house of cards, Norman builds the eccentric, loving network he deserves.

    Beth Morrey, bestselling author of SAVING MISSY

  • As moving as it is funny. And it’s very funny.

    Romesh Ranganathan

  • The funny thing about Norman Foreman is that he’s wheedled his way into my heart, and I suspect I’ll have a Norman shaped hole there forever.

    Clare Pooley, author of THE AUTHENTICITY PROJECT

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