Spring 2020 and the UK Covid-19 Lockdown

Joe Smart emails his estranged brother Shaun, telling him he has changed radically. In these unprecedented times, he hopes they can be reconciled. He asks Shaun to read two attachments explaining what has happened to him, what he wants now, and why. He also needs to talk to Shaun about something he now knows about their Dad. He requests a positive response.

The First Attachment: Joe's Personal Journey

The first attachment reveals that Joe, after losing his job, his marriage, and becoming suicidal, was quarantined in 2016 with his dog Gracie for his own safety. His month-long 'personal lockdown' with the maverick therapist Gregory More and his partner Rowena at their recently closed mental health clinic results in a remarkable transformation. Through intense therapy, long challenging conversations about culture, politics, and change, some unusual snooker, and periods of often painful self-reflection, we witness Joe's journey to greater maturity, responsibility, and hope—his new normal.

The Story's Themes and Tone

This uplifting story of intergenerational friendship, love, and commitment, written during a time of global crisis, explores the experiences, issues, and dilemmas facing us all in these uncertain times. As 'crisis up-lit,' it’s also pretty funny!