After reading the first chapter of this book, I was terrified. This work of fiction by neuroscientist, Lisa Genova, leaps off the page so vividly that the reader can't help but put themself in Alice's shoes.
Alice Howland is a dedicated wife, mother of three grown children, celebrated educator at prestigious Harvard University who at fifty years begins to show early signs of Alzheimer's disease. The writer takes us through the effects of what Alice first thought were menopause symptoms to the quick progression of the disease almost three years later. The relationship between herself and her children, and herself and her husband appears to be very fragile and desperately in need of being nurtured. She struggles with maintaining her independence, the previous losses in her life and redefining her relationships.
I appreciated the author going into great scientific detail about the effects, the tests, the various medicines though at times it began to turn the book into non fiction writing. We all have moments when we misplace keys, forget numbers or what we were doing but to be told that this is not a temporary situation is devastating. This is a very challenging read with many teary moments but through it all she is Still Alice who learns the importance of family and making great memories to last beyond her lifetime. A definite must-read.
