Book Review: Sipsworth

The cover is enticing and the title perplexing. Sipsworth, a novel by Simon Van Booy, tells the story of Helen Cartwright, a woman waiting to die. After spending six decades in Australia, and burying her husband and son, Helen returns to England to live out her remaining years. For the first few hours I listened, I was confused where the story was going. Helen establishes a relationship with a small mouse she accidentally transports from someone else's rubbish into her home.

Two-thirds into the book, the reader's understanding shifts in the most unexpected way. Though slow to get going, this book is thoroughly compelling. It treats so many important aspects of older age: invisibility, loneliness, second chances, the importance of kindness, and legacy. What a delightful journey with an octagenarian and her pint-sized pet!