‘Things I’ve Learned from Dying: A Book About Life’ by David R. Dow
I was waiting for the girls whilst they were choosing books in the library and I came across this book and in a mood of abstraction casually picked it up and turned the pages and started to read...just to pass the time.
I wasn't quite sure why it was in my hand or why I was reading it as it isn't a me kind of book. It's written by a death penalty lawyer, (the founder of the Texas Innocence Network I believe) about the approach of and eventual death of his Father in Law from cancer, the death of his dog and last but not least the death by execution of his client ..not a bundle of laughs by anyone's imaginations. But I couldn't put it down. At first I wasn't sure of the point of the book ..where was he going , what was the purpose... but it was compelling and sad. The indictment of the legal system in Texas that controls such cases was scathing, attitudes and approaches to his father in laws illness were interesting ..I realize his Father in Law was angry but really sympathized with his point of view. I don't believe in treatment at all costs . If there is not a realistic chance of a cure...then treatments that significantly reduce quality of life could be cruel.
Anyway an unusual book for me ..but I couldn't put it down ..it was quite thought provoking.
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