Review: The Tea Ladies of St Jude’s Hospital
Gaby Meares
Joanna Nell has done it again. This warm and funny novel is told from the perspective of three volunteers at The Marjorie Marshall Memorial Cafeteria in St. Jude’s Hospital. As always, Nell is particularly astute at giving voice to women ‘of a certain age’. So often older characters are mere caricatures, but Hilary and Joy are relatable women, dealing with life’s many curve balls the best they can. They aren’t perfect, but they are real. Introducing 17 year old Chloe to the Cafeteria gives Hillary and Joy an opportunity to share their wisdom and also gain a younger perspective. It’s a win-win for them all.
There are many poignant moments, and then there are many laugh-out-loud moments too. For example, as ‘Hilary tried to conjure some positive affirmations. If was important to maintain a growth mindset in the face of setbacks. Failure is simply an opportunity for development, she told herself. Even for someone who’d read as many management and self-improvement books as her, it was a hard sell. Honestly, did anyone actually believe this codswallop?’
Hilary, Joy and Chloe are memorable characters who find they have more in common than they realise. As they battle to keep their beloved Cafeteria open for business, they each discover inner strength and resilience, not to mention new and unexpected life-long friends. Prepared to be charmed!