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Can We Talk About Something More Pleasant?
228 pages, 2016
biographies & memoirs
997 books
arts & entertainment
401 booksChast tells a sharp and funny tale about her parents' final years. Spanning the last several years of their lives and told through four-color cartoons, family photos, and documents, this touching memoir is both comfort and comic relief for anyone experiencing the life-altering loss of elderly parents.
When it came to her elderly mother and father, Roz held to the practices of denial, avoidance, and distraction. But when Elizabeth Chast climbed a ladder to locate an old souvenir from the crazy closet—with predictable results—the tools that had served Roz well through her parents' the eighties could no longer be deployed.
While the particulars are Chastian in their idiosyncrasies—an anxious father who had relied heavily on his wife for stability as he slipped into dementia and a former assistant principal mother whose overbearing personality had sidelined Roz for decades –the universal truths are even more resonant.
In 'Can We Talk About Something More Pleasant?', Roz Chast explores the challenging reality of aging parents. She shares her personal journey of caring for her elderly parents, highlighting the emotional, physical, and financial struggles that come with it. It's a must-read for anyone facing similar circumstances.
Chast uses humor as a coping mechanism throughout the book. She shows us that even in the most challenging times, finding something to laugh about can lighten the load. If you're going through a tough time, you might find comfort in her approach.
One of the key takeaways from the book is the importance of having open conversations about difficult topics like aging and death. Chast encourages readers to break the silence and start these conversations with their loved ones.
Roz Chast, a renowned cartoonist, uses a unique blend of text and illustrations in 'Can We Talk About Something More Pleasant?'. This style makes the book engaging and easy to read. If you're a fan of graphic novels or memoirs, you'll definitely want to check this out.
Throughout the book, Chast grapples with feelings of guilt and regret. She teaches us that it's okay to feel these emotions and that it's part of the process. If you're dealing with similar feelings, you might find solace in her words.
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Roz Chast's memoir is a tour-de-force of emotional honesty, exploring the realities of aging parents with humor and heart.
David Remnick - Editor, JournalistChast's book is a masterpiece of graphic storytelling, a poignant exploration of the human condition.
Jules Feiffer - Cartoonist, AuthorRoz Chast's memoir is a profound, moving work that tackles the complexities of aging with grace and wit.
Hillary Chute - Literary CriticChast's memoir is a deeply personal, incredibly honest exploration of the human experience.
Alison Bechdel - Cartoonist, ActivistRoz Chast's memoir is a powerful, poignant exploration of the human condition, a testament to the power of storytelling.
Art Spiegelman - Cartoonist, Author