Larry Duberstein

Ian is part of a musical group who visits hospice patients hoping to bring them comfort in their last days. He meets a young woman who is dying from a brain tumor. Anita disappears, and Ian travels to the west coast in search of her. Along the way, he realizes that his outlook on life is taking on a new meaning. An interesting story line that led to Ian’s growth.

Good character development of Ian, but not enough of Polly. At times, the writing felt like a travelogue, pointing out the various tourist attractions. I'm not sure others would have enjoyed this, but it brought back happy memories as I remembered my travels along the same route. I felt the author's need to show his political bias throughout the book was completely unnecessary and added nothing to the story. However, overall, a worthwhile read.… (mais)

I received this book through Early Reviewers and it was not what I expected. Ian was a likable character who grew throughout the book. However, many of the other characters just weren't likable or did not feel realistic, mainly Polly. With her mockery of emotions and her analysis of her husband while maintaining that she was not her therapist I could not see how they had been married for 40 years. I enjoyed the descriptions of his rambles with Fred and of the roadside attractions (with a little a) that he found along his journey.… (mais)

Larry Duberstein is an excellent author. He has created a very likeable main character and chose an intriguing subject that has not yet been overdone. I really enjoyed his musings and ponderings about the little things in life as well as the big questions.

I did find that (without creating spoilers) his infatuation leading to his quest and his wife’s action seemed quite abrupt. Perhaps more building up to these situations may have eased the plot line. But moving through these were quite amiable with his asides.

My hope is that Duberstein will continue his development of Ian, the hospice singer. I would look forward to more about Ian’s journey in this pursuit and the lives of the people for whom he sings.… (mais)