Life's That Way: A Memoir (2009) - Plot & Excerpts
Jim Beaver's memoir Life's That Way is not an easy read, but it is a worthwhile one. It is not an easy read because each page is filled with pathos and the raw emotion that human beings exhibit when undergoing the unimaginable ups and downs of fighting for those they love. The author writes in such an easy and intelligent way that the reader can be lulled into thinking that this story is simply a story, a fiction. And then the hammer falls reminding the reader that this compilation of emails is the raw and real story of the author's life from October of 2003 through October of 2004; his story of loss and grief and survival. Jim's story is complex and thoughtful and funny and sad. It is the story of how we deal with hope and life and the death of those we love. But most importantly it is a story of learning how to move forward by continuing to choose life over loss and remembering to take heart in the miracles that are a part of all of our lives every single day. Jim Beaver's book touched me deeply, and even though I am fully aware that nobody's cancer experiences are alike, it's still comforting in a Way to read about others exsperiences and thoughts during the horrible process, and especially hearing about the places you can still find light. I guess that's why I keep Reading books about cancer; to find some Kind of positivity and light in All the Darkness. I truly appreciate the honesty that Jim expresses, though he says that he can't be completely honest which is quite understandable since some pretty dark thoughts occur when you're loosing/have lost one you love.. I have been fond of Jim as an actor for quite some time, and now I am fond of him as an author, and even more fond of him as a human, and might I add he is an incredible father though he tends to doubt himself in a book. I loved this book and it will stay in my mind for a very long time! I hope Maddie and Jim are well these days!
What do You think about Life's That Way: A Memoir (2009)?
One of the most amazing, powerful, hopeful, helpful and honest books I have ever read.
—slay
An amazingly honest view of the aftermath of losing loved ones.
—thuthu
