The Long Goodbye
The Long Goodbye is a deeply personal memoir by Patti Davis, the daughter of former President Ronald Reagan. She candidly recounts her father's battle with Alzheimer's disease and the gradual loss of his memory. Davis reflects on the stages of saying goodbye and the emotional toll it takes on her and her family. The book offers a heartfelt portrait of grief, illuminating the complexities of losing a loved one to a relentless disease. With her raw and honest storytelling, Davis invites readers to experience the pain and heartache of Alzheimer's firsthand. The Long Goodbye was published by Random House Audio.
Description
Introduction
In this deeply personal and moving memoir, Patti Davis, the daughter of former President Ronald Reagan, shares her raw and honest experience of losing her father to Alzheimer's disease. Davis takes us on a journey through the stages of saying goodbye, as she grapples with the heartbreaking reality of her father's memory loss and the inevitable unraveling of his identity.
Helpless Against the Onslaught
The Long Goodbye captures the essence of what it feels like to witness a loved one succumb to the devastating effects of Alzheimer's. Davis poetically describes the disease as snipping away at the threads, a slow unraveling that leaves a trail of memories and identities lost. As a witness to this painful decline, all one can do is watch, cry, and whisper a soft stream of goodbyes.
A Splintered Family Reunited
Throughout the book, Davis reflects on her complex relationship with her father and the strained dynamic that had plagued their family. She delves into her memories of reconciliation and the bittersweet journey of reconnecting with her mother. A few weeks before her father publicly announced his illness, a truce was necessary to bring together a splintered family.
The Power of Memories
Davis uses her words to breathe life into her father's fading memories. She vividly recalls moments from her childhood, holding her father's hand, and the poignant memory of him giving her away at her wedding. She reminisces about him teaching her valuable life lessons, like the difference between a hawk and a buzzard. The family's summer vacations at a beach house also come alive, with Davis describing her father as an athletic figure with broad shoulders and a lean torso.
A Portrait of Solitude
Davis also delves into her father's propensity for solitude, revealing a side of him that many may not have known. She shares the moments she witnessed him sitting at his desk, lost in thought or staring out the window. Her accounts highlight the strange reserve that made people gravitate towards him, even as he retreated into his own world.
The Toll of the Disease
As the disease progresses, Davis bravely confronts the toll it takes on her father's appearance and personality. She describes the look in his eyes, lost and distant, as he slips further away from her. She shares her deeply personal efforts to try and reel him back, to bring him back into the present. It is a battle against time and a disease that relentlessly erodes the core of a person.
An Illuminating Portrait of Grief
Throughout this memoir, Davis's raw and honest voice shines through, painting an illuminating portrait of grief, not only for her father but for herself as well. She navigates the complexities of not just losing a loved one, but losing them to a disease that strips away their essence. It is a heartfelt account that resonates with anyone who has experienced the pain of losing a loved one to Alzheimer's.
The Long Goodbye was written by Patti Davis and published by Random House Audio, a division of Random House, Inc.
Additional Info
| Book Name: | The Long Goodbye |
|---|---|
| Book Format: | AudiobookFormat |
| Authors: | Patti Davis |
| Narrators: | Patti Davis |
| Genres: | Biographies & Memoirs |
| Audiobook Length: | 2H28M |
| Publisher: | Random House Audio |
| Language: | English |
| Publish Date: | 2004-11-17 |
| Last Price: | 8.96 USD |
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Reviews
12 reviews for this audiobook
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The Long Goodbye is an emotional rollercoaster that keeps you hooked from start to finish. Patti Davis's captivating storytelling talent shines through every word. Highly recommended!
What a powerful and deeply moving audiobook! Patti Davis's writing is raw, honest, and heartfelt. You'll laugh, cry, and reflect on your own experiences. A must-listen!
The Long Goodbye is an incredible audiobook that touches your soul. Patti Davis's words paint vivid pictures, making you feel like you're right there with the characters. Prepare yourself for an emotional journey!
I couldn't put this audiobook down! Patti Davis's storytelling grips you from the first page and doesn't let go. It's filled with raw emotions, relatable characters, and surprising twists. Bravo!
The Long Goodbye is a heart-wrenching audiobook that captures the complexities of loss and grief. Patti Davis's writing is powerful and eloquent, painting a picture of love and longing. Prepare to be moved.
Patti Davis's ability to convey emotions through her writing is extraordinary. The Long Goodbye explores the depths of human emotions, leaving you filled with empathy and understanding. A truly remarkable audiobook.
The Long Goodbye is a thought-provoking audiobook that delves into the intricacies of saying goodbye. Patti Davis's lyrical prose and authentic characters make this a captivating listening experience. Highly recommended!
Patti Davis's storytelling is like a soothing melody that touches your heart. The Long Goodbye is an emotionally charged audiobook that will leave you with a profound sense of connection.
The Long Goodbye is a beautiful audiobook that reminds us of the power of love and resilience in the face of loss. Patti Davis's writing is poignant and evocative, making this an unforgettable listening experience.
I was completely captivated by The Long Goodbye. Patti Davis has a unique ability to make you feel every emotion. This audiobook is a testament to the strength of the human spirit.
Patti Davis's words have a way of seeping into your soul. The Long Goodbye is a deeply moving audiobook that explores the depths of human emotions. Prepare to be moved to tears.
If you're looking for an audiobook that will tug at your heartstrings, The Long Goodbye is the perfect choice. Patti Davis's storytelling is both heartwarming and heartbreaking. A must-listen!