On the Bright Side

The New Secret Diary of Hendrik Groen, 85 Years Old

By: Hendrik Groen

Narrated by: Patrick Ryecart

Length: 15 hrs and 25 mins

Publisher's summary

In the acclaimed follow-up to the number one international best seller The Secret Diary of Hendrik Groen, everyone's favorite curmudgeon is back and as funny and charming as ever with the newest adventures of the Old-But-Not-Dead Club - for fans of Frederik Backman and Graeme Simsion.

Everyone's favorite octogenarian is back, and together with his pals in the Old-But-Not-Dead Club, he is more determined than ever to wreak havoc and turn a twinkly eye on the brighter side of life.

After a year spent mourning the death of his beloved friend Eefje, Hendrik may be older and a little more wobbly, but his youthful appetite for mischief hasn't diminished. When fears arise that the home is set for demolition, it's up to Hendrik and the Old-But-Not-Dead Club to intervene.

©2017 Henrik Groen (P)2019 Hachette Audio

Critic reviews

"You might say he's the Elena Ferrante of the octogenarian set - though whether or not he is actually an octogenarian (or a man) is also anyone's guess...It's an appealing novel with a lot of heart, reminding readers young and old that fun is to be found even in the routine of everyday life. And of course, the possibility that it's more memoir than fiction is delightful."—New York Post

"Humorous...A realistic and perceptive glimpse into the aging process, shaped by empathy, optimism, and vibrant wit."—Booklist

"I laughed until I cried and then laughed and cried some more."—David Suchet

As good as the first!

I thoroughly enjoyed both of the Secret Diary books and was a little sad when the story came to an end. I’m not a member of The Old But Not Dead Club quite yet, but I’m almost looking forward to it (at least I’m no longer dreading it)!

On the Bright Side

Wonderful read. A diary read out and so easily followed. I frequently forgot it was a diary and not a novel.

Not nearly as good as the first

I enjoyed the first book so much, I listened to it twice and decided to buy the second. It was a disappointment. The narrator did an okay job but lacked the kind of delivery that made the first book come to life. And the story itself was much duller. Some themes were repeated but then, don’t the old repeat themselves from time to time? Overall, The Bright Side sounds more like the Depressed Side.

I’m so happy to hear about my old friends again!

Oh how I’ve missed the Old But Not Dead Club. While his hilarious sarcasm is no longer shockingly funny I still laughed aloud often and certainly cried as well. If you loved the first diary, you’ll love this one.

True wisdom

The equipoise of an 85 year old allows a clear view of life, our politics and our social constructs.
Beautifully read.
A kick up the backside for anyone feeling morose .... or self-satisfied.
I want Hendrik to be my friend.

great sequel to a lovely story

a wonderful way to wrap up such a phenomenal story and great list of characters

Was sad when the book was over!

This was a great follow up book to the first. The characters were just as lively, you could visually see their day and day out, I laughed, I cried, it was a very well written book. It engaged you, and you felt like you were listening to an old friend. Highly recommend!

Old People Are Awesome

This book is the 2nd in the series. This gave me more insight into some of the things that can happen if you live long enough. Just because your old doesn't mean you have to act old.

If you are over 65...

I loved this book. It shares the joy, the humor and all the rest of the OBND (old but not dead) club of 8 good friends in a Dutch retirement home.
Hendrik is someone you'd love to know.

Had to write a review!

I loved this audio book. There’s no violence, no sex, no drama, just a lighthearted listen! I’ve found these books to be surprisingly enjoyable and entertaining and love the narrator. Can’t wait for the next one!