The Celebrants
By Steven Rowley
Published by G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 9780593540428, May 30, 2023, 320 pp.

The Short of It:

Big Chill vibes with a slightly darker undertone.

The Rest of It:

A group of friends come together in Big Sur to fulfill a pact made over a decade ago. The pact in question? To throw living “funerals” so that they can enjoy them and fully realize what their lives meant to one another. The sweet memories of the deceased cannot possibly be shared with them but sharing them before they are actually in the ground? Makes perfect sense.

But one of the friends is keeping a secret. A diagnosis which could send them all into a tail spin. The idea of living  funerals is a novel one, but to think that one may actually be needed for one of their own, adds a dark cloud to the gathering.

I was expecting a lighter read given the book cover and the title but it’s actually quite thought-provoking and at times very somber. It has its funny moments but for every chuckle there is a more serious tone that sneaks its way into the story. I found myself pausing to reflect on my friendships of year’s past. Honestly, it’s a good reminder that the life we are living is temporary at best. Friendships matter and the choices we make do affect us in the long run.

If you are looking for a bubbly book to kick-off your summer reading, this may not be it but if you enjoy contemplative novels about friends, then toss this into your book bag.

Source: Review copy provided by the publisher.
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