The End of Your Life Book Club

The End of Your Life Book Club (2013) by Will Schwalbe. This is a true story about the author and his mother, who had a special relationship until her recent death from pancreatic cancer. What they talked about, more than anything, was books. Their interests were wide-ranging, and I got more than one idea for a book I'd like to read from this memoir. More than a discussion of books, however, this book is a memorial to Schwalbe's mother, who was a humanitarian and philanthropist with few equals. Apparently the family was blessed with money, because she gets the finest of medical care and the issue of whether they can afford something never comes up. Schwalbe meets with his mother on numerous occasions; as she bravely faces her battle with cancer, he is often there for her chemotherapy treatments and other procedures. When they get together, they discuss books. And, as often as not, they suggest books for each other. Thus, they form their own little "book club" of two people (remarkably, his mother keeps reading right up until the end). This book is a beautiful tribute of a son to his mother, and a fascinating read for the lucky reader who picks it up. Grade: A