This is a novel that will stick with you for a few days after you read it. It's short. It's sobering.
STORY SUMMARY
Eliot and Claire have been happily married for over 40 years. They have two adult children (Abby, who is married and has 2 preschool aged children; and Josh, single). They have lived in a suburban quiet town in Connecticut and have been through many ups and downs of married life, parenting life, careers.
But eight years ago, Claire was diagnosed with breast cancer and now the end is near as it's metastasized throughout her entire body. It is time to gather their loved ones and say "good bye".
Because of Claire's illness, Eliot has had to take on the role of caregiver....but he has been ok with that and has enjoyed the intimacy and tenderness that comes with that role. It's been more layered and complex than his role as a devoted husband and father.
He focuses on trying to make Claire's end of life as comfortable and meaningful as possible. But then she makes an unusual request of him....it leaves him shattered.
What if it was you? What if your partner had a dying wish that broke your heart?
Eliot asks himself how well he truly knows the deepest desires of Claire? This feels like a turning point in his marriage and his life. He has to grapple with the man and husband he has been.....as well as the unknowns of Claire's last days.
MY THOUGHTS
This book is not for someone who is looking for a light read. It's deep. But it's powerfully good. It's compelling and moving and left me thinking about what I would want if I knew I only had weeks.....or days...to live.
This book made me ask my self "What is love when we face death?"
The character development is spot on. So well done....I feel like I want to meet Eliot, Abby, Josh, Claire and Claire's two friends, Michelle and Holly, in person. Although the Holly character would drive me bonkers.
This is a book that leaves you thinking about life...and death...and all the moments in between.....and how to die gracefully.
I highly recommend this read. It took me less than a week...it's very captivating.
I found just a few editing errors.
In my opinion, this book is approriate for ages 14 and older.
On a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the highest, I rate this a 9.
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