The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife is a warm, life-affirming debut about a bizarre case of mistaken identity that allows a lonely old man one last chance to be part of a family.
Frederick Fife was born with an extra helping of kindness in his heart. If he borrowed your car he’d return it washed and polished, with a full tank of petrol. The problem is, he has no one left to borrow from. At 82 he’s desperately lonely, broke and on the brink of homelessness.
But Fred’s luck changes when, in a bizarre case of mistaken identity, he takes the place of cranky Bernard Greer at Wattle River Nursing Home. Suddenly he has a roof over his head, warm meals in his belly and, most importantly, the chance to be part of a family again.
Fingers crossed his poker face is in better nick than his prostate or the jig is up.
As Fred walks in Bernard’s shoes (and underpants), he discovers more about the man’s past – and what it would take to return a broken life to mint condition.
Bittersweet and remarkably perceptive, The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife is a feel-good novel about forgiveness, redemption and finding family.
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Read some great reviews from our Preview readers here:
This story centres around the elderly residents, the staff and their families of a Nursing Home. It comments on how our society often neglects and ignores our older citizens, especially when they need the most care. Relationships are at the core of this story. Many issues are covered with sensitivity and often, humour, including; dementia, addiction, cancer, social isolation, homelessness, infidelity, anxiety, guilt, grief and death. The book’s overall message, I believe, is the need of every human being to be cared for and loved. Anna Johnston has written a cleverly constructed story that leads the reader to make inaccurate assumptions before enlightening us to the true connections between some of the characters. Sandra, NSW, 5 stars
The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife charmed me. A redemption story in an unlikely setting, I was swept along by Anna Johnston’s engaging characters and plot. Although firmly set in Australia, the themes are universal – the importance of family, forgiveness and redemption. There’s plenty of humour, some rather far fetched coincidences and a satisfying resolution. A very enjoyable read. Penny, VIC, 5 stars
In what can be a tough old world, there’s always the need for novels that remind us of the potential for great humanity and joy. Frederick’s ‘borrowed life’ is a rattling tale to snuggle up with and bring us back to what really matters. At its heart is a reminder of what lies ahead for us all but, despite its pathos, it remains an upbeat tale filled with delightful characters. Put down the phone, shut out the world and fill your cup! Emma, QLD, 5 stars
I loved this book. The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife made me laugh and then made me cry, which is a little awkward when reading on public transport. Frederick Fife is a truly decent man, but he’s also out of options and alone in the world when a chance encounter and unusual series of events sees him take the place of another man in the Wattle River Nursing Home. Warm-hearted Fred is soon drawn into the lives of the other residents and staff, but how long can he live with such a lie? The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife explores the pain of broken relationships and cruel illness. Lonely Fred observes that “grief [is] love with nowhere to go”. However, with small surprises, Anna Johnston offers her characters the chance of forgiveness and family, and upholds the dignity of the elderly throughout. Alexina, ACT, 5 stars
The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife is an interesting tale that is sometimes sad sometimes funny even quirky but always tearing at the heartstrings. Julie, NSW, 5 stars
Fantastic book, loved it. An insight to how old people manage their lives in aged care and their relationships, current or past. Fred is refreshing character who makes you think about so many things and what is important in life and death. How a bit of kindness (or a lot) can go a long way to making so many people’s lives happier and better. Mixed with humour and a touch of drama and sadness, this book gives you an insight into human life be it good or bad and it challenges our preconceptions of old people and aged care. Highly recommend Anna Johnston’s book and think it should be made into a film version. Linda, VIC, 5 stars
I absolutely adored this book. Frederick Fife is the most beautiful character. He is a 82 year old man who does not deserve to be so desperately lonely. A weird twist of fate sees him caught up in a case of mistaken identity which doesn’t just end up enriching his life but that of many other people as well. This is the kind of book that had me looking forward to getting back to it as quickly as possible. This book was funny but it was also equal parts heartbreaking and heartwarming. This book make me smile. It also made me bawl like a baby. I have no hesitation to highly recommend this book to anyone who is after a mostly feel good read. Virginia, NSW, 5 stars
I laughed, cried, felt guilt and grief. Yet also relief and pride that there could be amazing people who are caring for our elderly population. Thank you, Anna, for the opportunity to share part of your world, even if it was mostly fiction. Maryanne, NSW, 5 stars
The Borrowed Life of Fredrick Fife is a humorous, joyous and wonderful book. It outlines the life of Fredrick who is given a second chance at life. After decades of always helping others, he’s finally being helped. the story is well-paced and provides readers with the chance to learn and understand lives of older Australians. This book is heart-warming and funny making it a must-read for all ages. Nishka, NSW, 5 stars
What a beautiful book! The story of Frederick Fife inadvertently borrowing Bernard Greer’s life helps us believe in humanity again. A funny, heartfelt and ultimately uplifting story, The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife explores family, forgiveness, addiction, and the sometimes harsh reality of life for the elderly. It will have you laughing out loud and then crying into your hankie. Please may I spend my final years in a place as wonderful as the Wattle River Nursing Home. Jodi, QLD, 5 stars
The Borrowed Life of Fredrick Fife a debut novel by author Anna Johnston absolutely delivered a great read that I can’t recommend enough. Such a beautiful and heartwarming character Bernard (who accidently assumes the identity of Fredrick Fife) he is given a much needed second shot at life and the chance to be part of a family. While this is a bittersweet read it also brought me the valuable insight to forgiveness and redemption and the joy of seeing a beautiful soul who finds a family. Catherine, NSW, 5 stars
A superb, beautifully written, and entertaining debut by Anna Johnston. Fall in love with Fred. Share his initial frustrations, feel his pain and joy. Soak in his kindness like a warm bath on a cold night. You will laugh, you may cry. You will probably stop reading and ponder for a while before continuing. Thank you, Fred, for the life lessons. Thank you, Anna, for gracing the world with your talent. I look forward to more. Sue, NSW, 5 stars
I loved this book about Fred, who down on his luck, is given a second chance in a case of mistaken identity. This book has all the feels, making me laugh out loud and bringing a tear to my eye. This is a heartwarming read that will make you appreciate the older people in your life! Anne, VIC, 5 stars
I can understand why The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife reads like a giant warm hug because it is clearly one of the greatest stories that will capture many hearts. It has bestseller written all over it and I am very much a fan of all the characters and the story arcs they wander through and wrap up so beautifully in the ending. Please put this on the top of your reading goals! Preeya, QLD, 5 stars
This book is beautifully written. It’s my favourite book this year and I’ve read some beauties. It has you belly laughing out loud one moment at the characters mishaps and predicaments. And weeping uncontrollably the next at the sad lonely reality of a lot of the older generations in this country. Sadly so many fall through the cracks because of the lack of resources. It has a well constructed plotline and totally relatable and loveable characters. After visiting my grandmother numerous times in a nursing home I could relate to the story so much. I think most people could if they had older relatives they were close too. It’s a story of being losses, and of loss, reconnection, redemption and not giving up despite thinking there’s no coming back from the lowest of lows. Please go out and grab a copy of this fine book. Five star rating. Janet, NSW, 5 stars
The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife by Anna Johnston is a heart warming tale of a lonely man who has few of life’s comforts and by accident he gets to experience better times. It is a nice silly story which makes you laugh and cry but it also reminds you about the important things in life. I enjoyed this book and it is well worth a read and a few laughs. Katrina, QLD, 5 stars
Thank you Anna Johnston for such a fun read. Lots of laugh out loud moments and wonderful descriptions of bum cheeks and flatulence!! But woven in and around this fanciful story so many serious subjects were addressed. Grief and dementia. Nursing homes from the view of staff and patients – although I think this was a top of the range home. We had the whole shebang of finding love, losing love, loneliness addiction, cancer. Loved the characters and the clever interaction of the three stories. Yes it was a little schmaltzy – how perfect was Fred? So for those who enjoyed The 100 year old man who Climbed Out Of The Window and disappeared or Fairview Nursing home – you will love this. Joy, VIC, 5 stars
In Anna Johnston’s heartwarming debut, “The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife,” we meet Fred, an 82-year-old widower facing homelessness. A case of mistaken identity lands him in a nursing home as Bernard, a grumpy man with a surprising resemblance to Fred. Fred seizes this opportunity, finding a roof over his head, good meals, and comfort in the care and camaraderie among the residents and staff of the nursing home. He also uncovers Bernard’s past, inspiring him to mend broken relationships and make amends. With a touch of humour and a cast of endearing characters and a charming protagonist, “The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife” is a feel good novel that reminds us it’s never too late for a second chance. Sue, TAS, 5 stars
The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife Life happens; not always as planned, and not always with happy endings. A series of unfortunate incidents, coincidences and happenstance take octogenarian Frederick Fife, aka “Fred”, one of Nature’s gentlemen, on a journey he could never have planned, or imagined. Set around an aged care facility, its residents, staff and their families, Fred’s story explores aging; its physical, mental and stereotyping complications (especially dementia), with humanity, pathos and humour. It is at times a tad slapstick, but nevertheless touches, and tugs, at the reader’s emotions. The cast of characters, from different backgrounds and generations, wrestle with their consciences, their trials and tribulations, resulting from their regrets and past relationships, most significantly, within family. Highlighted are experiences of loss and grief, underscored by the need for, and the importance of, forgiveness. Each character, in their own way, is searching for second chances, belonging, and a secure future or closure. It is a journey extolling the virtues of respect and the generosity of spirit; we could all do with a friend or neighbour like Fred. Nell, NSW, 4 stars
I really enjoyed the book, although I hope that what is the start of the story would not actually happen. I enjoyed the friendships that were discussed in the story and the kindness of many of the characters. There were also some tender and sensitive moments. As a nurse, some parts of the story made me sad, for example some unusual practices in the aged care facility. However overall I really enjoyed the story. Stacey, NSW, 4 stars
This redemption novel is all about forgiveness and second chances. After Bernard dies and Fred takes his place in the nursing home, and in his life, Fred is taking another shot at friends, family, and belonging. Along the way of their journey to forge a new found family there are all the friends Fred makes! Albert who has dementia and treats him as a brother, and his wife Val, Kevin who takes his love advice and treats him as a grandfather, and Linh and Denise his other carers whose lives he changes for the better and treat him as a friend. Fred is a loveable, kind old man who you feel like hugging and so is this book!! Great uplifting story. Kristy, NSW, 4 stars
A fabulous story consisting of sadness, happiness, love and humour to the best standard. It started with a heartfelt experience of Bernard’s passing. A sad beginning but an unusual life ahead for Fred to fill in his shoes. It was unfortunate to live the life he had after the death of his beloved wife Dawn, but a new opening for him at Wattle River nursing home has developed. He enjoyed three square meals a day, a nice bed to sleep in and staff that looked after him very well. Activities at the home helped with communication skills and he found a dear friend in Albert and Val. Lisa, SA, 4 stars
If you’re looking for a book to warm the cockles of your heart look no further! With impossible not to love characters, a unique plot and page after page of clever witticisms this book makes an easy, enjoyable read. A lovely debut that will put a smile on your face and leave you with all the feels. Belinda, VIC, 4 stars
Utterly priceless. You could read this book in one sitting and then wish you had made it last for a month of Sundays. Our hero, Frederick Fife, is one in a million. His superpower is kindness and what a different world it would be if there were more like him, even if he is a little bit naughty. It will make you laugh out loud and sob into a sodden tissue, as you see that love is ageless and comes in all shapes and sizes. And for anyone who has had any experience with the aged care system, there are lots of extra treats in here for you too. Sit back and enjoy the froth on your cappuccino. Michelle, VIC, 4 stars
I really enjoyed this book, especially the story of the two different families and the clever twist how they were connected. It was a light, breezy read with very developed characters. I thought the incident where Frederick and his friend Albert drove one of the ladies scooters to the shops to buy suits was a bit over the top and when Albert used the change room in the store as a toilet was a bit off. I didn’t find that amusing although I suspect it was meant to be. The rest of the story however, was delightful and gave an insight into what life in a Nursing Home must be like for elderly people, both positive and negative. Also the staff dealing with people of different personalities and degrees of mental capacity. Overall a very thoughtful and entertaining debut novel. Elaine, SA, 3 stars
The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife is a touching tale of mistaken identity, when the lonely and almost homeless Fred is mistaken for cranky aged-care resident Bernard. Taken back to the nursing home in Bernard’s place, no one is willing to listen to Fred’s explanation that he isn’t Bernard. And so follows an endearing narrative of grief, loss and learning to love again, with Fred’s innate kind and caring nature building new and mending old relationships, sometimes at the same time. Anna Johnston brings her real life experience to this story, crafting loveable and recognisable characters, with a rag-tag collection of residents and staff making the most of what they have and embracing their circumstances. The central story gently reveals the heartache in Fred’s past, while also exploring parallels of grief and loss for Bernard, the man whose life he has ‘borrowed’. Nicki, VIC, 3 stars
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