Man And Boy

'Some situations to avoid when preparing for your all-important, finally-I-am-fully-grown thirtieth birthday: Having a one-night stand with a colleague from work; the rash purchase of luxury items you can't afford; being left by your wife; losing your job; suddenly becoming a single parent. If you are coming up to 30, whatever you do, don't do any of that. It will f*ck up your whole day.'

Harry Silver, successful TV producer and possessor of a beautiful wife, a lovely son and the perfect house, has just discovered that he's blown it big-time. His life's falling apart around him as his wife dumps him and leaves him to look after their small son on his own. Besides having to cope with playground mothers who eye him with suspicion, and wondering whether it's okay to feed his son green spaghetti for breakfast, Harry then discovers that his father is dying.

Tony Parsons, in this highly acclaimed novel, depicts life as the modern man actually lives it, with its attendant difficulties and emotions - the struggle to be a good father, to hold down a job, to appreciate your parents while you can.