Maggsie McNaughton's Second Chance

Small and dyslexic, with a short fuse, bad teeth, a prison record, and something to prove, Marguerite McNaughton – Maggsie – doesn't need anybody or anything, thank you very much. She's more than capable of looking after herself. She's also about to discover that everyone needs someone, sometimes. Even her.

Format: Hardback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 27 June 2019
Publisher: Pan Macmillan

Ruth Hogan's novel "The Keeper of Lost Things" is a captivating tale that delves into the life of Maggsie McNaughton, a young woman with a troubled past. Despite her initial struggles with reading and a lack of trust in others, Maggsie embarks on a journey of self-discovery and growth.

Maggsie's journey begins with her decision to learn to read, a crucial step towards improving her life. However, she soon realizes that her journey is not just about reading but also about learning to trust and rely on others. This proves to be the most challenging lesson she has ever faced.

Growing up small and dyslexic, with a short fuse, bad teeth, a prison record, and something to prove, Maggsie has built a wall around herself to protect herself from the world. She believes that she doesn't need anybody or anything, thank you very much. She is more than capable of looking after herself. However, as she starts to receive reading lessons from a fellow inmate and is offered a job in London as a kitchen assistant, she begins to question her self-imposed isolation.

At first, Maggsie is convinced that nothing will change. She is skeptical of the kindness of others and believes that her past mistakes will always haunt her. However, as she interacts with her colleagues and begins to form friendships, she realizes that she has been missing out on the joys of human connection.

Through her interactions with her colleagues and her newfound love of reading, Maggsie begins to change. She starts to let down her walls and trust others, even when it feels risky. She realizes that not everyone is trustworthy, but that there are still good people out there who are willing to help and support her.

One of the key themes of the novel is the power of friendship and the written word. Maggsie's colleague, Jack, is a kind and supportive person who becomes a mentor to Maggsie. Through their interactions, Maggsie learns to appreciate the beauty of the written word and the power of storytelling. She also discovers that writing can be a way to express herself and connect with others.

Another important theme of the novel is the importance of second chances. Maggsie has made many mistakes in her past, but she is determined to turn her life around and make something of herself. She is given a second chance when she is offered the job in London and is determined to make the most of it.

Through her journey, Maggsie learns to let go of her past mistakes and embrace the future with hope and determination. She realizes that her past does not define her and that she has the power to create a better future for herself.

"The Keeper of Lost Things" is an uplifting, heartwarming novel that will resonate with fans of Eleanor Oliphant, Three Things about Elsie, and Elizabeth is Missing. It is a testament to the power of friendship, the written word, and second chances. Ruth Hogan's writing is witty and engaging, and Maggsie's character is relatable and inspiring. This novel is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good story with a touch of magic.

Weight: 470g
Dimension: 145 x 224 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529014013