This book truly caught my eye today as I was perusing the eclectic collection of new and used books at Green Mountain Books in Lyndon, Vermont.

It was my friend, Carol, who first introduced me to L'Engle's non-fiction. She lent me "Two Part Invention", which was a wonderful portrait of a marriage.

This particular book I found today is supposed to address the topic of aging. Aging is a subject that both intrigues and repels me as I am making my way through my sixties and moving towards the next chapter of my life.

On one hand, I am intrigued by the wisdom and experiences that come with age. I look forward to seeing how I will grow and change in the years to come.

On the other hand, there are aspects of aging that I find less appealing, such as the physical limitations that may start to creep in.

I am curious to see how L'Engle approaches this complex and multi-faceted topic in her book.

This is a truly touching memoir that delves into the decisions made regarding the elderly great-grandmother, who was Madeleine's mother. It also explores the interesting histories of her family.

The author provides a thoughtful account of the progression of disease and dementia and how it impacts a family as a whole and an individual personally. The analogy of the sea as one's mind is especially powerful. The mother is described as burying deeper and deeper into the sea, while coming less and less above the surface. This creates a vivid and compelling image that really sticks with the reader.

It makes one think about the fragility of the human mind and the challenges that come with dealing with a loved one who is suffering from such conditions. The memoir not only tells a story but also evokes a range of emotions, making it a deeply engaging and moving read.

Overall, it offers a unique perspective on family, illness, and the power of memory.

These Crosswick Journals books are truly the ideal choice for this current stage of my life.

This particular volume will find its place among my expanding collection of titles that explore the theme of "how we misunderstand death and what we should think about it."

It is beautiful, and I have done so much underlining while reading it!

If you have ever accompanied a loved one through the valley of death, then you absolutely need this book.

It offers profound insights and comforting words that can help you navigate the complex emotions and thoughts that arise during such a difficult time.

The author's writing is both poignant and accessible, making it a valuable resource for anyone who is grappling with the reality of death.

Whether you are a caregiver, a mourner, or simply someone who wants to better understand this universal human experience, the Crosswick Journals books are well worth reading.

I have a deep affection for Madeleine L'Engle's children's fiction. Therefore, I was filled with curiosity about how much I would relish this nonfiction book from The Crosswicks Journal.

It was truly touching to witness the experiences that the author endured as her grandmother passed away. In some respects, it served as a poignant reminder of my own grandmother's departure.

I would read it in small snippets before going to bed. Although it may not possess the same level of engrossment as her children's books, it was still a worthwhile read.

The author's honest and heartfelt account of her emotions and the events surrounding her grandmother's death added a layer of authenticity to the narrative. It made me reflect on the significance of family and the inevitable cycle of life and death.

Overall, this nonfiction book provided a different perspective on Madeleine L'Engle's writing and offered a moving exploration of grief and loss.

This book is the second installment in a series that consists of four or five parts. I only read this particular one for a book group. Perhaps I would have gained more if I had read the first one, mainly because my main gripe with this book is that the author sometimes refers to people and assumes that you know who she is referring to. I'm going to assume that she introduces those people to us in the first book. Other than that, I think it is a rather good standalone book.

The book delves into the real-life emotions and challenges of witnessing a parent enter a second childhood or senility. As I read the first section, I could envision both my grandmother and my grandfather as they drifted away from reality. Although I observed those situations from a much greater distance, the things she said jogged my memory of the things expressed by my parents. As the author delves into her feelings on this subject, it was a bit of a difficult read. However, the book takes a significant turn for the better as she introduces us to the mother that she knew and didn't know in the second and third sections.

This is an extremely touching book that details the final summer spent with L'Engle's four-generation family in their summer home. At that time, it was (unknowingly) her mother's final summer.

L'Engle is grappling with the harsh reality of her mother's physical deterioration, compounded by the mental decline caused by dementia. This book serves as a beautiful tribute to her mother's life. It explores the mother she knew, the mother she didn't know, and the profound impact all of this has on the present situation.

It is a very touching and thought-provoking book. L'Engle has a remarkable gift for creating vivid word pictures that truly amaze me when it comes to describing the complex issues of dementia, being a daughter, and a caregiver. This book has been of great help to me in facing and dealing with my own mother's Alzheimer's disease and my challenges as a caregiver. I will definitely be reading this again.

It is a book that not only touches the heart but also provides valuable insights and perspectives on the difficult journey of caring for a loved one with dementia. It is a must-read for anyone who has faced or is currently facing similar situations.

This book had such a unique charm that it felt as if I was coming home to sit beside Madeleine and listen intently to her captivating stories.

I had adored the first journal in this remarkable series, A Circle of Quiet, and this second installment was equally, if not more, delightful. The reason being, I have an inherent love for family history stories, and this book was filled to the brim with them.

It was truly a special treat to have come across this wonderful book. I was completely engrossed and couldn't bring myself to put it down.

Every page seemed to unfold a new chapter of Madeleine's life and the lives of those around her, painting a vivid and heartwarming picture.

The stories were told with such authenticity and warmth that it made me feel as if I was a part of her family, sharing in their joys and sorrows.

This book is not just a collection of words; it is a precious gem that offers a glimpse into a world full of love, laughter, and memories.

I would highly recommend it to anyone who has a passion for family history or simply enjoys a good read that will touch their heart.

A truly poignant and disarming lyrical poem unfolds before our eyes. It tells the story of a woman who, in her mother's last days, witnesses her slowly letting go of this earth.

The woman's stories, her remembrances, the family connections, the adventures - all of these elements draw us in, pulling us along into the stream of her life. Even the things she leaves out add a certain mystery and allure.

The courses of thoughts and emotions that this poem evokes are simply inescapable. It tugs at our heartstrings and makes us reflect on our own relationships and the passage of time.

At this particular time in my life, this poem holds a special dear place in my heart. I am deeply grateful to Madeleine for penning such a beautiful piece. And I also want to express my thanks to my daughter-in-law for loaning me this wonderful book.

If anything, this memoir reveals the significance of story. It's not merely about the story of an individual but rather the stories that constitute the self on a genetic level. In other words, my life story couldn't have unfolded without the tales of my mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and so forth. I embody numerous characteristics of these remarkable women in my life. Perhaps being aware of the stories of these women would enhance those wonderful qualities within me. For, knowing where and from whom you originate is a powerful thing.

The most captivating idea that emerged from this book pertained to the subject of memory. We can strive our utmost to remember family members and convey their stories, yet no matter how tenacious we are, ultimately those stories are lost. Our memories turn to dust and are wiped away from this earth. This can be a disheartening thought. But then I recall God.

"Our memories are, at best, so restricted, so finite, that it is inconceivable for us to envision an unrestricted, infinite memory, the memory of God. It is something I desire to believe in: that no atom of creation is ever forgotten by Him; always is; cared for; developing; loved."

My memories and your memories are mysteriously and more vividly known to Him than to ourselves. I find this irrational concept rather hopeful. It gives me a sense of comfort and assurance that even though our human memories may fade, there is a greater power that holds onto all the details and loves us unconditionally.

This idea makes me appreciate the importance of sharing and preserving our family stories while we can, as they are a part of our identity and a connection to our past.

Beautiful.

She not only celebrates her mother’s life but also reveals to her readers the complex emotions she experiences as her mother spends her final summer at their home.

L’Engle takes us on a journey back in time, sharing stories told to her by her mother, sister, and other relatives.

As I read, I caught hints of "Wrinkle In Time" and was able to glimpse some of her thoughts regarding it.

I found it extremely difficult to put the book down, especially towards the end.

I wished she had asked her mother why she was afraid. She seemed to be making assumptions about her mother's fear, perhaps she had already asked but chose not to share that part with the readers.

If someone we care about is afraid, it is of utmost importance to ask them why. We should not assume we know the reason without having a proper conversation.

This simple act of asking can bring us closer to understanding their emotions and provide the support they may need.

I consider this to be a quiet book, one that is contemplative by nature.

Madeline L'Engle's reminiscence is a tribute to her mother during the last summer of her mother's life. It not only honors her mother but also encompasses many of the tender challenges, reflections, and memories that we experience when accompanying a loved one at the end of their life and into the process of crossing over.

The self-doubts, the snippets of story and ancestral history, and the acknowledgment of simple blessings and meaning-making all touched my heart. As I watch my own parents age, I know that this stage is not far off for me. It is about coming to some sort of acceptance of what is and what can no longer be.

Pour a cup of tea and get comfortable. This is not a book to be read quickly, even though it is not long. The reflective nature of the book requires time to be respected and brought into the spirit.

Make no mistake: L'Engle would despise sentimentality, as the last chapters make clear. There are also parts that describe her family's southern history, and I suspect that others might prefer to see these through a different lens today. However, allowing this book to stand as it is, as one woman's reckoning with her mother's passing, is itself a generous sharing within this writer's circle.

Love her journals.

The way she puts universal deep thoughts into words is truly a remarkable and self-revelatory experience to read.

Her words have the power to touch the soul and make one reflect on the deeper meaning of life.

Each entry seems to be a window into her inner world, allowing the reader to explore and discover new perspectives.

It is as if she is sharing her most intimate thoughts and feelings, inviting the reader to join her on this journey of self-discovery.

The beauty of her writing lies in its simplicity and authenticity, making it accessible to all who have the privilege of reading it.

Her journals are not just a collection of words, but a testament to the power of the human spirit and the ability to express oneself through the written word.

They are a source of inspiration and a reminder that we are all connected through our shared experiences and emotions.