Photo by Tehya
I just finished reading Lisa Genova's novel, STiLL ALiCE, feeling wrapped up in the complex realities of Alice's diagnosis with early onset of Alzheimer Disease. Maybe you know what I'm talking about, the feeling of being a character within the story and having a hard time shaking it. The book was lent to me by someone who could have guessed at my deep rooted apprehensions and that I'd have a hard time opening it's pages but, once I did, I could hardly put it down for the emotional feelings it evoked.
Early on, in her quest of what is happening and realizing where the disease ends, Alice comes to wish she had cancer instead. Ashamed for even fantasizing about this, she concludes that with cancer she'd have something she could fight and there would be a chance to win. People would consider her a hero in the fight, and if she lost, she would still be able to look her loved ones in the eye at the time of her goodbye, knowing them. She concludes with the thought that in her given situation, with her vanishing memory and mental instability people would rather keep a certain distance from her. We all know what she means.
The writer does several things very well. Telling the story from Alice's point of view, we feel her despair as she tries to come up with a foolproof plan to personally know when she will no longer be cognitive, by regularly answering certain questions about herself, In the end only the reader sadly realizes what is happening to her responses. Yet, midst the confusion and frustrations, the reader is also able to feel the unexpected joys of a family that compensates and continues to respect and love her as they've known her to be.
This story allows us a peek into a life no one would choose, yet gives insight on how to respond and appreciate the good moments. I am left with a deep desire to pray for a disease altering breakthrough for those living in its genetic shadow.
7 comments:
Thanks for your review of the book, Anneliese. I am planning to read it.
Beautiful picture Tehya took!
And yes, that book...wow. I thought it was amazing. Her other books that I've read (Love Anthony and Left Neglected) are also very gripping!
Such a powerful book about a difficult subject! Definitely a recommended read!
I loved that book..She is an amazing writer. It's hard to believe how life can have so many twists and turns.
I also really enjoyed reading this book. Such a reality for so many people. Good review.
Helen
I haven't read any books on this subject but I do recommend the movie Away From Her, with Julie Christie and Gordon Pinsent. It's a Canadian movie.
It is such a mysterious diseaee. Unknown cause, not diagnosed until after death. But I have not read that it is a familial disease.
Sharon
I appreciate you sharing your take on this book, and I believe it would be beneficial for many, including me to read it. It is now definitely on my list. Thank you!
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