|
Measure
of the Heart: A Father’s Alzheimer’s, A Daughter’s Return By Mary Ellen Geist, Springboard Press The real life account of the
author, a big city reporter and journalist, who makes the decision to leave her career and go “home” and help
her mother care for her father, who has Alzheimer’s disease. The story is unique as every Alzheimer’s
story is and yet the same as every Alzheimer’s story is. The book is a wonderful reflective accounting
of real life as a daughter and caregiver. Mary’s father was unique in that although he couldn’t remember his own
daughter’s name he was able to remember the lyrics to the many songs he had sung over the years, including the baritone
parts to songs he sang in a men’s group. Her father was delightful in life and delightful through
the disease, which made the stories easier to read. Each chapter held important information
to glean within the experience that was shared. I especially appreciated the chapters: Alzheimer’s
Chicken, which talked about the different “chores” or activities that kept her father feeling like he had meaning
and purpose; Hospital Hell and Healing, was enlightening in dealing with the healthcare system and sometimes
the public in general; The Caregivers, was honest about the emotions and the toll care-giving takes on a person. I
came away from this book with practical ideas and comfort written by someone who has been there. It is
obvious that the author deeply loves her parents, who they were and who they are now. The book contains
valuable research and lists many resources. Anyone, regardless if Alzheimer’s is a part of their
world, would profit from and enjoy reading the book.
Robin Hood by Louis Rhead, published
in 1988 by Children’s Classics. (Originally published under the title “Bold Robin Hood and His Outlaw Band”.) I know
my mother thought I read every book in the library when I was young, but really I missed a few. In an attempt
to catch up on some children’s classics I picked up a wonderful illustrated edition of “Robin Hood” at a
flea market. It was pure delight and I only regret not having read it aloud to my own children.
Louis Rhead creates the honorable and noble character of Robin Hood from bits and snippets passed down through history
via ballads and poems. He admits to cleaning up his character and that of his “outlaw” band.
The book is full of adventure; sword fights, archery competitions, mischievous disguises and of course humorous tricks
to outwit the Sheriff of Nottingham. Robin Hood doesn’t believe in killing his enemies and forbids
his merry men from doing so. He rescues the week and disadvantaged from the proud and greedy, but “never
takes all of a person’s money.” Little John, Will Scarlet and Friar Tuck become true and loyal friends.
I found the stories enjoyable and could imagine young boys imitating the exploits of Robin Hood. I
found his character much more desirable for children than the current attraction to pirates with their dishonesty, filth,
and greed.
Side Note: In searching for the link to buy the book I became aware that there are many books
about Robin Hood. I can only endorse this author.
 |
|
Just a word
about "Book Jacket"
At first I felt compelled to provide reviews of new or at least recent books. Although
that may be the case at times I decided that really isn't who "Calico Woman" is. Calico Woman finds books
at thrift stores, second hand stores and garage sales. Oh yes...I do order new books and shop at my favorite bookstore,
but it is most likely you will find books here that I've been "meaning to read" for a long while. I will
make sure that they are still available to you either new or used or via the library. Happy Reading!
|
