What would happen to a down and out lonely old man if he is mistaken for someone else? Life can have unexpected twists and turns, and that is the story of today’s Book Review The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife by Anna Johnston.

Mistaken Identity

A case of mistaken identity turns into a comedy and tragedy as Frederick Fife finds himself living as someone else in a nursing home. The lonely old man was out of money and about to lose his apartment, when suddenly his life changed. Despite trying several times to explain who he really was, no one at the nursing home will listen. Fred is frustrated at the ageism he experiences, but begins to enjoy his warm bed and hot meals so decides to just live as Bernard Greer, believing he isn’t hurting anyone.

Friends and Family

Fred has no family of his own, but this kind and gentle soul immediately makes friends in the nursing home, all while the staff wonder about his positive change in personality and improving health. Things are going along well until Bernard’s estranged daughter shows up. Having not laid eyes on her father in 30 years, even she does not recognize that Bernard is actually Fred.

Comedy of Errors

What will happen as Fred finds himself dug deeper and deeper in this misconception, unwilling to hurt those around him but living with heavy guilt?

It’s a fun and uplifting story, with a variety of well-developed characters all looking for a sense of purpose. The book looks at issues of aging, family, memory, grief and friendship. A perfect summer read.

Book Review The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife by Anna Johnston

****Four stars for The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife by Anna Johnston.

Thanks for reading my Book Review The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife by Anna Johnston. See last week’s book review The Will of the Many by James Islington.

Be sure not to miss NEXT WEEK our EIGHTH ANNUAL READING ROUND UP 2025 – my top picks of my reading year July 2024-July 2025.