In Leonard and Hungry Paul by Ronan Hession, two understated friends quietly navigate the chaos of modern life with humour, board games, and a unique lens on the world. This heartwarming story of ordinary people finding extraordinary meaning is a tribute to overlooked moments, profound friendships, and the art of living gently.
What makes "Leonard and Hungry Paul" stand out?
Some books are quiet revolutions, and this is one of them. Leonard and Hungry Paul reminds us that not all heroes are loud, nor are all lives defined by grand gestures. Hession's understated masterpiece introduces us to Leonard, an aspiring children’s encyclopaedia writer, and Hungry Paul, his deeply thoughtful, board-game-loving friend. Together, they navigate life’s nuanced challenges, redefining what it means to make a difference.
The novel is refreshingly gentle yet profound. There is no sweeping romance, no plot twists to leave you breathless. Instead, you will find a narrative that feels like a walk in a peaceful garden.
Who are Leonard and Hungry Paul?
Leonard is a quiet man who has just lost his mother, leaving him to re-evaluate his life. His job writing for children’s encyclopedias may sound mundane, but Leonard finds joy in simplicity. Hungry Paul, on the other hand, still lives with his loving parents and approaches the world with an unmatched sense of curiosity and wisdom.
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Their friendship is built on shared silences, meaningful conversations, and their ability to find beauty in the overlooked. For instance, Hungry Paul’s observation about Edvard Munch’s The Scream—not a scream, but a moment of blocking out the world—is emblematic of their unique perspective.
Hungry Paul moves through life with an almost philosophical detachment from the chaos around him, seeking comfort in the familiar rather than aspiring to societal ideals of success. In a world that constantly urges us to shout louder, Hungry Paul’s quiet rebellion is revolutionary.
How does the Narrative capture Humanity so perfectly?
The brilliance of Leonard and Hungry Paul lies in its ordinariness. The prose, unpretentious yet eloquent, resonates like a calming tune. Ronan Hession’s background as a musician (under the name Mumblin’ Deaf Ro) shines through in the rhythm of his words.
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The story flows effortlessly, painting vivid scenes of familial bonds, small-town life, and the subtle ways in which people leave imprints on one another. Whether it’s Leonard navigating Shelley's awkward attempts to reconnect or Peter crafting a heartfelt speech for his daughter’s wedding, every moment feels real, intimate, and relatable.
One of my favourite moments involves Hungry Paul’s feelings about his sister Grace’s wedding. His thoughts are a mix of vulnerability, wisdom, and understated humour. It is a touching example of how even the smallest gestures can carry immense emotional weight.
What is the most memorable Quote from the Book?
One of the most poignant lines comes from Hungry Paul:
"We should aim to be as nice to ourselves as we are to others, and as generous with others as we are with ourselves."
This summarises the philosophy of the book: kindness as a quiet yet radical act.
Another quote that stayed with me is:
"The world is too complex to be perceived all at once, so we tend to reduce it to smaller, more manageable worlds."
This line perfectly captures the beauty of Hession’s storytelling—it’s not just about Leonard and Hungry Paul’s lives but also a reflection on how we all simplify and curate our existence to find meaning.
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Why does this book Feel Like a warm Hug?
If you’ve enjoyed the works of Fredrik Backman (A Man Called Ove) or John Green (Turtles All the Way Down), this book is a must-read. It shares their knack for making ordinary lives extraordinary through introspection and gentle humour.
From Leonard’s efforts to step out of his comfort zone to Hungry Paul’s delightful wit, the book invites readers to slow down and savour life.
This warmth extends to the supporting characters. Leonard’s boss is hilariously uptight, while Hungry Paul’s parents are so loving and patient that they feel like a sanctuary. Even Leonard’s tentative romance is painted with the soft brushstrokes of realism—awkward, sweet, and entirely believable.
How does this book celebrate the art of quiet living?
In today’s world, where hustle culture is glorified, Leonard and Hungry Paul offers a counter-narrative. It shows that life’s value isn’t measured by accolades or achievements but by the quality of our relationships and the joy we find in small things.
The book celebrates moments that are often overlooked—an afternoon spent playing board games, a thoughtful conversation about art, or a simple walk to the post office. These aren’t just fillers in the narrative; they are the heart of it.
Hession doesn’t just tell us this; he shows us through the lives of his characters. Leonard and Hungry Paul may not be super achievers, but they win something far more important—our hearts.
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What did critics say about this book?
Leading publications have praised Leonard and Hungry Paul. The Guardian described it as "the book the world needs right now", and The Irish Times called it "a hymn to kindness."
Goodreads users have echoed these sentiments, with over 10,000 ratings averaging at 4.25 stars. It’s the kind of book that readers can’t stop recommending.
Did Bluemoose Books Publish This book?
Yes, independent publisher, Bluemoose Books champions voices that challenge the status quo. They published Hession’s debut novel in 2019. This underscores their commitment to stories that explore the extraordinary in the ordinary. The cover design is by Fiachra McCarthy.
Who is Ronan Hession?
Ronan Hession isn’t just an author; he is a modern-day Renaissance man. A musician-turned-writer from Dublin, he draws on his rich artistic background to create narratives full of heart and insight. His ability to weave everyday wisdom into his storytelling has cemented his place as a standout voice in contemporary fiction.
FAQs About Leonard and Hungry Paul
Closing thoughts
Books like Leonard and Hungry Paul remind us why we read—to understand, to feel, and to connect. It is not just a story; it’s a quiet call to appreciate the small wonders of life.
Your Turn: What are you currently reading? Have you read Leonard and Hungry Paul? Share your thoughts below!
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