Beacon, August 2009

Summer is a time for relaxation, and what better way is there to relax than to curl up with a good book? Below, find a list of books that make up MVES’ summer reading list. Please note that a sense of humor is suggested for some of these books, while a box of tissues should be on hand for others. Do you have suggestions or comments? Please let us know. Enjoy!

Heating and Air: Vents and Drafts About Dealing with My Parents and Their Aging, by Julia M. Cline, is a collection of easy-to-read essays written by an adult daughter of two aging parents. Read an excerpt.
Still Alice, by Lisa Genova, is a fictional story, told in the first person point of view, of a professional woman who experiences the onset of Alzheimer’s disease at the young age of 50. Read an excerpt, watch a video of the author discussing her novel, or check out a review from The Boston Globe.
Senior Days: Insightful Tales and No-Nonsense Help from the Frontlines of Eldercare, by Colleen Nicol, provides personal stories, reflections, and useful tips from an in-home, professional caregiver. Read an excerpt.
Chicken Soup for the Caregiver’s Soul, by Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen, and LeAnn Thieman, is a compilation of real life, inspirational stories written by and for caregivers. Read an excerpt.
The Notebook, by Nicholas Sparks, is a novel that touches upon issues like aging and Alzheimer’s but is more so about the strength and longevity of true love. Read an excerpt. If you’re more of a movie buff than a book worm, check out the movie trailer.

Old Age is Always 15 Years Older Than I Am, by Randy Voorhees, is a collection of humorous, witty, and inspirational quotes about aging. Read an excerpt.

If Only I’d Had This Caregiving Book, by Maya Hennessey, shares the ups and downs, tips, and personal experiences of a caregiver. Read an excerpt. Listen to the author discuss caregiving issues and her book in this radio show segment.
The Boomer Century: 1946 – 2046: How America’s Most Influential Generation Changed Everything, by Richard Croker, examines the past, present, and future of all things baby boomer. Read an excerpt.
Tuesdays with Morrie: An Old Man, A Young Man, and Life’s Greatest Lessons, by Mitch Albom, is a true story about a younger man who benefits from the words of wisdom, advice, and guidance he gets from an old friend who is nearing the end of his life. Read an excerpt. Watch this video to hear author talk about the book.

What’s your favorite book about aging or caregiving? Please e-mail the editor at beacon@mves.org to share.