Still Alice by Lisa Genova: The Show Me 5 Saturday Meme

So here is my Show Me 5 Saturday meme book description. The book I’m reviewing is: “Still Alice” by Lisa Genova

Now, here are the answers to each of the five questions for the Still Alice book summary…..

1.Title of the book I read this week

“Still Alice” by Lisa Genova

2. Words to describe the book

In short, Alzheimer’s Journey and identity struggle

3. Setting and characters I met in the book

3.1 The Setting:

“Still Alice” takes place in the state of Massachusetts. Specifically, this is where the main character Alice Howland resides. She lives there with her family. The narrative unfolds in contemporary times. It focuses on the academic center of Harvard University. Of course, it is there that Alice has earned a reputation as an esteemed professor of cognitive psychology.”

3.2 Characters:

3.2.1 Alice Howland:

Alice Howland is a brilliant and accomplished cognitive psychology professor at Harvard University. She is in her early 50s and begins experiencing cognitive decline, eventually diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. The novel follows her emotional journey as she grapples with the loss of her identity and independence.

3.2.2 John Howland:

Alice’s husband and a successful biologist. He is supportive of Alice throughout her struggle with Alzheimer’s, but faces challenges in balancing his career and caregiving responsibilities.

3.2.3 Anna Howland:

Alice and John’s eldest daughter. She is a lawyer, and her relationship with her mother evolves as she becomes more involved in caring for her and understanding the impact of Alzheimer’s on their family.

3.2.4 Tom Howland:

Alice and John’s son, who is pursuing a career as a medical student. He initially distances himself from Alice’s situation, but as the story progresses, he comes to terms with the reality of her condition and becomes more involved in her care.

3.2.5 Lydia Howland:

The youngest daughter of Alice and John. An aspiring actress, Lydia struggles with her own ambitions and the guilt of not being present for her mother as much as she would like.

3.2.6 Dr. Alice Howland:

A fictional version of Alice, representing her internal thoughts and feelings before the diagnosis. The imaginary conversations with her healthy self allow readers to see the stark contrast between her past and present selves.

3.2.7 Dr. David Jones:

Alice’s neurologist who diagnoses her with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease and guides the family through the challenges of the condition.

3.2.8 Jenny:

Alice’s caregiver hired to assist her as her Alzheimer’s progresses. In fact, she plays an essential role in supporting Alice and helping the family cope with the changes caused by the disease.

Moreover, throughout the book, the characters’ interactions and experiences offer a poignant and realistic portrayal of the impact Alzheimer’s has on individuals and their families.

4. Things I liked or disliked about the book

4.1 Liked

I loved the Still Alice novel.

I think that it perfectly captures what one goes through when they are afflicted with Alzheimer’s disease. The main character brings an unparalleled level of authenticity and insight into the experience of living with this disease. Especially since she is a trained neuroscientist. The book’s narrative emotionally grips the reader. You want to follow Alice on her journey.

In truth, her character feels authentic and relatable. You can empathize with her struggles and root for her throughout the book. The portrayal of the Howland family dynamics and their individual reactions to Alice’s diagnosis adds depth to the story. Of course, this makes it a compelling exploration of familial love and resilience in the face of adversity.

5. Stars or less rating

I give the “Still Alice” by Lisa Genova book

Five stars * * * * *

Click this link to see The Show Me 5 Saturday Meme for: Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese