Joe Faber and the Optimists

Joe Faber’s a funny guy, good with his hands, and great with words – until the stroke which leaves him severely disabled. But this is more than his story. Wife Fran has a job she loves. Daughter Jess, a wedding to plan. There’s heartbreak and absurdity along the way - but humour is the family’s greatest asset in the drive to get Joe back on his own two feet.Written by a caregiver. Truthful, balanced, warm.

'Administering hope and regular hearty laughs, it's a powerful antidote to despair...'

- Susan Elderkin, co-author,

The Novel Cure

‘Things I love about it: the drama, the humour – particularly Joe's – which made me laugh out loud, the richness of the wider family, the tangible fierce love and passion between Fran and Joe, the eccentricity of the wider family, the evocation of the Scottish landscape, the immersion in the language and culture of the fiddle… It’s a very lively book that is VERY hard to put down’

– Pippa Wainwright

'A thoroughly enjoyable read whether or not you've been affected by stroke, Joe Faber and the Optimists really ought to be recommended reading in stroke clinics around the world.'

– Michelle Ryles,

The Book Magnet

'Engaging and uplifting.... Moving, funny and unexpected.' 'A wonderful read... It feels very real and very poignant... It's also very funny.' '... told with humour and grace.' 'A story of determination, optimism and love.' 'A book I will definitely share.'