the setup…
Jane and Abe have been together for over fifty years and Central Park has been a pivotal part of their lives throughout that time. Jane is dying and Abe now spends their remaining time at her bedside, talking about their memories and reliving those moments…the highs, the lows, the joys and the pains…from courtship to present.
the heart of the story…
It’s not your typical narrative as the story is delivered lyrically, almost poetically, in fragments and may not be for everyone. Initially I was uncertain if the writing style would work for me but soon I came to savor the power and delicacy of the words. No common descriptions here as the metaphors evoked vivid imagery that left no room for alternate interpretations. Abe and Jane had a special relationship, she an outrageously gifted artist and he a talented, ultimately successful writer who didn’t recognize it in himself until Jane. Then there’s Max, their son whose relationship with Jane was…complicated. You also feel the connection to and love for Central Park, expressed in ways I’ve never seen.
the bottom line…
I experienced an extraordinary reaction as Abe’s way of reciting those memories with Jane are almost identical to how I’m now relating to a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. Those memories, wonderful or not so, are deeply rooted and meaningful, the connections forced to resurface. It’s both heartwarming and heartbreaking, but reinforces the bond. This is a love story with countless layers and intended targets. At times, it took my breath away.
Book Info
- Release Date: February 4, 2025
- Page Numbers: 304
- Publisher: Dutton Books
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Blue Mood Café 
Wonderful review Jo, it sounds like a very emotional read!
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Thank you, Nicki💜 It sneaks up on you!
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Sounds very impressive, Jo
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Thanks, Marialyce💜 It’s definitely unconventional.
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This sounds like such an emotional read – I love how you’ve been able to connect with it (but also very sorry). Great review Jonetta.
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Thank you, Jodie💜 It was highly emotional for me as I’m living Abe’s journey.
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Wonderful review, Jo. This sounds like an extremely emotional read. I’m sorry to hear that you connected so closely to this story.
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Thank you, Carla💜 I didn’t see it coming and it confirmed for me that my “Do you remember?” conversations matter.
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Fab review! It sounds like such an emotional story… I’m sorry you are going through something similar at the moment; Alzheimer’s is such a horrible disease and people don’t tend to understand exactly how much it affects not only the patient but also the people close to them.
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Thank you, Yvo💜 It’s a horrid disease and I was stunned when I saw Abe using the same conversation message I use. It is my only connection these days.
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