A Diary of Walter's Backseat Driver

Writing is not one of my favorite things to do. However, after reading "A Diary of Walter's Backseat Driver" by Janet Boyle, I felt I must write a review. Janet begins by mentioning that people often believe that Alzheimer's is a disease in which you simply can't remember things. This is certainly how I had always looked upon the disease but as she took me through several years and the different phases of Walter's life the circumstances became clearer in a fascinating way. The book is a detailed account of Janet's time spent with her father-in-law Walter, who had Alzheimer's disease. Within the little stories throughout the book we learn more about the mind of Walter and his constantly changing world. In each case, she tries to find the answer to "why" these things are happening. All through this she maintains a tone of interest and understanding where many others in her situation may have succumbed to anger and frustration. What impressed me most about this book was Janet's determination to learn all she could about Alzheimer's and what it was doing to Walter. She would take an interest in the other patients, talking with them, joking with them, and attending events with them. Walter and his son David were lucky to have someone like Janet to guide and support them though the long journey of understanding and acceptance. I received a greater understanding and respect of this disease after reading this book. This was a captivating story that I would highly recommend. Donald Mulcey