Book Review: The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion

Paperback Writer here.

Last Wednesday, I headed down to the Carnegie Library to browse through the new releases there. Among the three books I picked up was Joan Didion's latest book, "The Year of Magical Thinking."

Oh, my god. I had forgotten how great a writer she is. This book will rip you apart and if you have ever lost someone near and dear to you, this book will speak volumes to you.

The premise: within the span of several weeks, her only child goes into a coma and her husband dies of a massive coronary. The book follows her from the time of his death to a year after the fact. She ponders what she could have done differently to save her husband's life and to reverse the fate that befalls her daughter.

Loki asked me why I was still reading the book if it was so sad. I replied because it's so good. It makes you think about life and the little things that eventually become big things. It also forces you to cherish the people around your life and to not take things for granted.

So, go ahead and read this book, but be prepared to be pinned to the wall by her writing.

I give this a five out of five stars.

PS

I promise to review a livlier and happier book. I promise. Truly. I don't really read or listen to all the depressing books and music. ;)