I loved the first book about Hendrik Groen and this sequel doesn’t disappoint. The Old-But-Not-Dead Club continues to thrive, with its gallant old members determined to make the most of the life that’s left to them. In this book Henk has to face a terrible loss and sometimes finds it hard to keep cheerful in the face of increasing decrepitude, which is described with wry humour. Life in the Amsterdam old people’s home still strikes him as ridiculous and he has trenchant views on events in the world and Dutch politics. He may complain of loss of memory but it’s clear he still has all his marbles. Like the other members of the Club, he keeps on keeping on, maintaining self-respect by being always smartly dressed and never saying ‘No’ to an opportunity to try something new. Picture two octogenarians whizzing along on their mobility scooters, with children waving at them. Or a group of ‘elders’ trying out a new restaurant, where the young staff treat them with respect and kindness. It’s very touching.

Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this novel. I loved the Secret Diary and was so thrilled that Hendrik was back for a sequel!
This latest offering did not disappoint. It is an hilarious book, truly laugh aloud funny. It is also very moving and terribly sad at times. It is so rare that I give a book 5 stars but this really is that good a read. Toward the end of the diary Hendrik alludes to the fact that he may "write a novel next year". Fingers crossed for that one!

This is the 2nd book in the Hendrik Groen series following the octogenarian as he records his escapades throughout the year. After reading and enjoying the 1st book in the series I was always going to read this one. These books are certainly different from the normal books I read and they bring on lots of different emotions while reading, mainly joy but also a touch of sadness.
Hendrik records the goings on inside the care home and also his thoughts on the world outside. Hendrik is a lovable old man who has a streak of devilry and his writing gave me many laugh out loud moments as he recounts his exploits with the aptly named group of residents called 'Old-But-Not-Dead Club'. This book is at times sad as he writes about the autumn years of him and his friends but it is often hilarious as he encounters new adventures.
This book is so well written and although its subject is perhaps difficult to imaging being so entertaining and witty, the author brings it to life with charm.
I would like to thank both Net Galley and Penguin UK for supplying a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Loved the first one, so was really excited when this came up.
The book was fantastic - really emotionally involving, the characters are totally believable and the emotional sucker-punches had me sobbing into my pillow when reading in bed. Really engaging, definitely recommend. (And always interesting to have books written about older people)

I'm so pleased that Hendrick made it through another year able to keep his witty, scathing & moving diary. I wish I was as observant at half his age.
It was great to check in with Hendrick and the gang again and this cross between Adrian Mole and The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel is just brilliant.