Meet Doris, a 96-year-old woman living alone in her Stockholm apartment. She has few visitors, but her weekly Skype calls with Jenny—her American grandniece, and her only relative—give her great joy and remind her of her own youth.
When Doris was a girl, she was given an address book by her father, and ever since she has carefully documented everyone she met and loved throughout the years. Looking through the little book now, Doris sees the many crossed-out names of people long gone and is struck by the urge to put pen to paper. In writing down the stories of her colorful past—working as a maid in Sweden, modelling in Paris during the 30s, fleeing to Manhattan at the dawn of the Second World War—can she help Jenny, haunted by a difficult childhood, unlock the secrets of their family and finally look to the future? And whatever became of Allan, the love of Doris’s life?
Oh my goodness what a book. If you are getting a little older; 40+ this book is a must read, as you can and will relate to many things in this book. It's no surprise as to where this book is leading you too; but the journey there, is told in such a way you are there with Doris every step of the way.
I too have a red address book and I too have people's names crossed out, due to being dead. The same way my Christmas Card list gets a little shorter every year. We all grow old. I loved the element in the book that despite Doris being 96 years of age, she was very comfortable using her computer and other modern technology.
Stars out of 5 : 5 I had a good cry over the last couple of chapters, as I think you will realize what will happen as you read the book. However there are a couple of lovely surprises tucked in with this story that will make you smile and feel good about what will happen. Well worth the read and I think I will put forward this book for selection to read at the book club I have joined.
This is my own review; I borrowed the book from my local library.
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