‘The Guncle’ by Steven Rowley

Final Guncle Rule. There are two tragedies in life: one is not getting what you want, the other is getting it.

‘The Guncle’ by Steven Rowley is a heartwarming story about grief, healing, and the messiness of chosen and biological families. It’s about getting through loss together—and about finding moments of lightness and joy even when things feel impossibly hard.

A few days after their mother's funeral, Maisie and Grant move in with their uncle Patrick (a.k.a. GUP—Gay Uncle Patrick) in Palm Springs for three months. Patrick, a retired TV star known for his extravagant style and wit, initially comes across as a walking gay cliché. But underneath the surface, he’s wrestling with his own grief and unresolved trauma.

What starts out as an unlikely guardianship evolves into a tender and funny journey of emotional growth—for both Patrick and the kids. The novel blends camp, humor, and deep emotion in a surprisingly touching way.

Some of the early stereotypes might feel cringy at first, but the book ultimately subverts many of them, revealing the vulnerability and strength behind the performance. A feel-good story that still makes space for real emotion.

CW: grief and bereavement, past drug use, homophobia, emotional trauma