REPORTS OF HIS DEATH HAVE BEEN GREATLY EXAGGERATED

This audiobook chronicles the dreary world of Ray "Spike" Thorns, a retired caretaker at a posh English boarding school whose life is dramatically changed when a visiting neighbor is rushed to the hospital and dies. Ray is confused with the dead neighbor and is, thus, officially declared dead. Narrator Peter Noble expertly portrays the hapless Ray; listeners can hear his consternation, politeness, and honesty. The family, friends, and students who once were a factor in Ray's life are well differentiated. This work of introspective, heartwarming character-driven fiction is told in a manner that is tender, reflective, and realistic. D.L.G. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2025, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2025]