Publication Date: July 1, 2025
Perfect for fans of The Dead Poets Society, It’s A Wonderful Life, and A Man Called Ove.
A lifetime ago, Ray “Spike” Thorns was a well-regarded caretaker on a boarding school’s grounds. These days, he lives the life of a recluse in a house rammed with hoarded junk, alone and disconnected from family or anyone he might have at one time considered a friend.
When his next-door neighbor drops dead on Spike’s doorstep, a case of mistaken identity ensues: according to the police, the hospital, the doctors—everyone—Spike is dead. Spike wants to correct the mistake, really he does, but when confronted with those who knew him best, he hesitates, forced to face whatever impression he’s left on the world. It’s a discovery that brings him up close to ghosts from his past, and to the only woman he ever loved.
Could it be that in coming face-to-face with his own demise, Spike is able to really live again? And will he be able to put things straight before the inevitable happens—his own funeral? The result is a beautiful look at life and what we would all do if given a second chance.
Ray Thorn lives a quiet life surrounded by piles of stuff. When he opens his door to a neighbor seeking assistance, it kicks off a sudden chain of events.
Author James Goodhand serves up a story centering around a man who, for all intents and purposes, is just going through the motions. Reports of His Death Have Been Greatly Exaggerated serves as a wake-up call.
The case of mistaken identity compounds as family members visit the home and start going through the many items—there’s even a service scheduled. For the very much alive Ray, it creates a complicated situation.
As his past unfolds throughout the book, readers gain insight into Ray’s character and learn about his lost love. The author adds an interesting twist that makes the story even more impactful. Ultimately, it delves into the significance of living each day to the fullest.
Reports of His Death Have Been Greatly Exaggerated provides a main character who will slowly win you over once his past is revealed.
James Goodhand has written two YA novels. His YA debut, Last Lesson, was called “a powerfully charged study in empathy,” by the Financial Times. This is his adult debut. He lives in England with his wife and young son.
