Despite its flimsy and predictable plot, Mr Wigg captivates to the end, not only because Inga Simpson writes well, but also becasue she has a special empathy with old age: its frustrations and regrets and also its rich treasure chest of memories.

Mr Wigg is an octogenarian orchardist somewhere in New South Wales, and Simpson blends the fascinating cultivation and history of fruit trees into her story.

Mr Wigg knows the characteristics of his fruit trees so intimately that he talks to them. In his kitchen he teaches his two delightful grandchildren to cook with the harvest.

Mr Wigg is mourning his wife’s death. He is, sadly, estranged from his only daughter. To keep an eye on him, his son pesters him to live with his family. He wishes that his land could be passed down the generation, but economics and family animosities make it impossible.

Mr Wigg is nevertheless the celebration of a well-intentioned, honest life with which most of us can identify.

Reviewed by Barbara Baker