Author(s): Megan Albany

Staff Picks- Read our reviews

A funny, light-hearted story about dying – from the perspective of the person about to “shuffle off this mortal coil”.

Vivian is something of a control freak, even though she has a terminal illness – a bit of a “my way or the highway” sort of person.  So...an obvious “list maker” not only for herself but her long-suffering husband Clint, who does not seem able to complete any of his listed jobs (at least to Vivian’s satisfaction).  She also makes lists for her beloved young son, Ethan, although she is much more forgiving of his non completion of tasks. Then of course, things come up that are NOT on anyone’s list IE. attend someone else’s funeral, which of course Vivian does with accompanying amusing commentary on how the event went.  What she would do for her own funeral (use the same caterers) and not do (require everyone attending the service to wear white, thereby making the whole event very “Brides of Christ”).

Although a fun, easy read – Vivian is exceedingly witty - there are some very valid observations about how people behave around the dying and an undercurrent of sadness at her leaving her family. A clever, very enjoyable, witty read.

Prue