Still Alice by Lisa Genova

Still Alice by Lisa Genova is a brutally honest look at Alzheimers Disease and the havoc in can wreak on both the individual who is diagnosed and the family and caregivers around her. Alice Howland is a professor of psychology at Harvard University when she is diagnosed with Early Onset Alzheimer's Disease at the age of 50. The story is told from her point of view and shows how she views her world during the course of the disease. At once fascinating, heartbreaking, and frightening, this novel takes an in-depth look at the disease from early onset forward. Genova's storytelling makes this a quick read. I read the entire thing in a few hours and could barely put it down. But don't let the speed of the read fool you--this is a meaty narrative with lots to take in. Genova masterfully weaves the sensory perceptions Alice experiences throughout her illness and their changes. There is a lot to consider. For example, if you could be genetically tested to find out if you would develop Alzheimer's in the future, would you want to know? I heartily recommend this book to EVERYONE. We all need to know more about this terrifying disease and the people who take care of its victims. 289 pp.