Four Books I Just Read
I read two Richard Yates novels, Revolutionary Road and The Easter Parade, and adored them. If you watch Mad Men on TV, read Revolutionary Road to see the inspiration for the popular television series. Both novels are flawless.
I just finished reading Still Alice, a novel about a Harvard professor who is diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s. This is one diagnosis that scares the crap out of me. If you have the slightest bit of hypochondria, steer clear of this book. A neighbor of mine got early-onset Alzheimer’s and she’s now in an institution. The interesting thing about Still Alice is that its author, Lisa Genova, holds a PhD in neuroscience from Harvard and researched the disease for maximum realness. I found it well done, realistic and terrifying.
I also just read Little Pink House, a nonfiction account by Jeff Benedict about a woman from Connecticut who becomes an unlikely activist and fights the eminent-domain taking of houses in her neighborhood.
March 9th, 2009 at 12:41 pm
There are lots of things we can do to prevent Alzheimer’s, including doing crossword puzzles, learning a foreign language, & playing a musical instrument. It doesn’t matter at what age you take on these “brain exercises”, but these kinds of activities are important to keep the brain healthy & in good shape through our elder years.
Here’s an article with more: http://www.helpguide.org/elder/alzheimers_prevention_slowing_down_treatment.htm
March 9th, 2009 at 1:41 pm
The Kelo vs New London Supreme Court case (of which The Pink House is about) resulted in a terrible decision. As a result, many states passed laws restricting emininent domain for economic development so that this situation would not happen in their locales. Unfortunately, many states still allow this type of confiscation of private property.
March 9th, 2009 at 5:20 pm
You have quite a range of interests, Rhea!
March 9th, 2009 at 10:36 pm
I saw the movie Revolutionary Road and thought it was an accurate depiction of that era. I’d like to read the book and plan to especially after reading your review. The others sound really good, too. Thanks!
March 10th, 2009 at 7:47 am
Yes, Hattie, that’s what I am kinda known for. My friends joke about that. Also, I’m a Gemini.
Joy: Do read it. You will love it!
March 10th, 2009 at 8:51 am
Good suggestions, all. Thanks, Rhea! Have you read The Middle Place? I’m enjoying it so far.
March 10th, 2009 at 9:03 am
Marilyn, I haven’t read that but I will check it out.
March 11th, 2009 at 9:49 am
Any “good read” recommendations for elderly aunt? Avid reader, loved To Kill a Mockingbird, East of Eden, enjoys biographies of women. Thks