Growing Old

This vivid, highly readable account of what it is like to be 87, interlaced with reflections on the author's fascinating earlier work as an anthropologist in Africa, compels readers to assess how they will face old age. Interlaced with dry wit, and with a keen, empathetic appreciation of both human and animal feelings, this book is for everyone.

I read Growing Old looking for some wisdom because I will soon turn 58. How delightfully the 87 year old Thomas writes about the subject of growing old. Thomas' voice is that of sage, neighbor, mother, and teacher. I immediately responded to her wisdom and wit, her honesty and her frailty. I learned that I need to savor these days of my youth. Thomas reflects on changing relationships, diminishing physical and mental capabilities, and decreasing visibility in a society so focused on youth. But this book is not about defeat. Thomas has had an amazing life filled with adventure and strong family. She writes of many topics close to her heart: her childhood African experiences, her life with her animals on her New Hampshire farm , and her new appreciation of the comma. The magnamity of aging and death is wrapped in the warmth of a woman who is able to convey the wisdom that comes with finding the truth of the elderly: there is growth in becoming old. Like a mother, a friend, and a good neighbor, Thomas lets us know it's all going to be OK. Growing Old is a window into how our final years can be lived with grace. Thomas doesn't sugarcoat the challenges. She reminds us of the privilege.

Funny and true, this is a book for young, old, and in-between. Old age isn't funny most of the time. I know because I'm getting there quickly. And Ms. Thomas doesn't spread any illusions about "The Golden Years." But if you don't get too riled up about losing your car keys (daily if "they" are still letting you drive), seeing your friends die (monthly if you still have some), and watching your lab numbers go the wrong direction (annually because you refuse to have the tests more often); and if you have a cat or dog or two or three or five to keep you company, the last part of life can be worth the trouble. So if you're old - read this book and know you're not alone; if you're not, read it so you understand those who are and can be prepared to get there - if you're lucky.

Having just just turned 50 years old and faced with the declining health of my parents, this book couldn’t have come along at a more perfect time in my own life. This eloquent and insightful book is a realistic view on the challenges and unforeseen joys of aging. On one level, “Growing Old” is a practical manual and, on another level, it’s a beautifully written reflection on the author’s life. It is not a depressing book nor is it overly sentimental. The author tells it how she sees it. And, I for one, loves how she sees it. I am so grateful for having the good fortune to stumble across and read this book.

What an amazing book. I have elderly parents, so I relate a lot with this book. I found this book funny, thoughtful and helpful. I found the advice part about choosing how you want to die and be buried is something I’ve been thinking about often and has help me decide how I want to go. I love how she talks about how her mind is still willing but her body is not.

I hope that this become a bestsellers because this book will help others deal with not only getting older but also help them deal with the fact that their parents are getting older too.