Lonely millennial Chad MacEwan can't seem to get it together. While his polished Uncle Martin sails through his twilight years with a full social calendar, Chad's weekly highpoint is dutifully visiting Martin at the Eldernest Assisted Living Lodge. Maybe his uncle's magnetism and way with the ladies will rub off on him, or perhaps Chad will one day gain enough courage to strike up conversation with the woman who works in the cafeteria. It's not only Chad who struggles with loneliness and self-doubt; the Eldernest is teeming with residents searching for belonging. There's the animal lover who owes her spot at the affluent Eldernest to a government subsidy, and the resident who finds himself back in the closet due to the close-minded confines of communal living. Then there's the love triangle with Martin firmly ensconced in the centre position. Or is he really? As Chad becomes further entangled in the lives of Eldernest residents and staff, each person must decide how much to risk in their pursuit of companionship and connection. Joy Norstrom's Flying the Nest is a heartfelt examination of our assumptions on aging and sexuality, the strength of family, and the enduring power of community.
