I read this novel a few months ago and have given it to many friends. I highly recommend. Charlotte posted about it after she read it awhile back but there hasn't been any follow up. I'd love to hear what others think. It's about an older (80s?) married couple who travel in an RV across country as sort of a last hurrah. He has advanced Alzheimers but does all the driving. One of the reasons I've given it to so many people is because I am continually asked how DH can still drive! She is in the late stages of cancer. The characters are vivid and fascinating. They take the old Route 66 from I believe Ohio to California. The novel brings up some interesting questions.
Terry, I read this book last year at this time. It was when I knew something was wrong with my DH but of course couldn't be sure. I was even then reading everything I could about the disease that I so dreaded he had. Well, he was diagnosed this past Nov of 2009. I'm still reading all I can. It was a very heartfelt story, I'm not sure I could ever just take off like that with my DH. Very touching as I remember.
He was a pretty high functioning AD victim which is why someone would be able to do that. But, if my hb was in the shape he was, I don't think I would let him drive, especially thru big cities. When I ordered it I thought I read it was a true story but the book clearly says it is not. But, it is a possible trip. We are planning to do something like that late summer after my class reunion. At least that is my wish and to spend the winter in the warm south.
Charlotte, can't recall the husband's name in the book, but he was a lot further long than my DH in that he didn't usually remember that his children were grown, or even his wife's name. The most interesting thing to me about the book was the wife's decision to take control of their lives away from family and the medical profession.
Here is the link for it - http://astore.amazon.com/wwwthealzheim-20/detail/0061719838
I am going to order it and read it, but the description seriously disturbs me - HE drove? Across the country? When he couldn't remember his wife's name or the children were grown? Not fair for me to make any more comments until I read it.
Joan,glad to hear you're going to read it and hope some others will also. I'd like to discuss the issues brought up in the book but can't do so in detail without giving too much of the story away. The woman in the book will make you smile, laugh, and cry. It's a very quick read. My brother enjoyed it as much as my women friends so it's not "CHICK LIT".
Charlotte,my goal is to spend the summer in the "not so hot" bay area. Thanks for your suggestions. It sounds complicated to me but then I was in my late 20s I think before I ever pumped my own gas. When I looked online it appeared the Class B are the smallest. Will e-mail you.
Terry, I agree the best part was where she took control of their destiny vs staying and letting their doctor and children tell them how to live and die. They were driving a Class C which is easier to maneuver around town and on the highway. The wind doesn't blow them around as much because they are not as high as the Class A. Plus, if you get a 25ft or less you will fit into any park or campground.