Steven Rowley is the author of The Guncle (G.P. Putnam’s Sons), The Editor, and the national bestseller Lily and the Octopus, which has been translated into 19 languages. He has worked as a freelance writer, newspaper columnist, and screenwriter. Patrick, or Gay Uncle Patrick, the “guncle,” loves his niece, Maisie, and nephew, Grant. He loves spending time with them when they come to Palm Springs for weeklong visits or when he visits Connecticut for the holidays. But no matter how adorable they are, caretaking and relating to two children is an overwhelming task for him. So when tragedy strikes and Maisie and Grant lose their mother, and Patrick’s brother has a health crisis, Patrick has to take on the role of primary guardian. Never mind the “Guncle Rules,” Patrick has no idea what to expect. He has spent years barely holding on after the loss of his great love and through a somewhat-stalled acting career, and his lifestyle is not suited to a 6-year-old and a 9-year-old. Realizing that parenting isn’t solved with treats and jokes, he finds a new sense of responsibility. The Guncle is a tribute to the power of love, patience, and family – even in the most trying times.