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“Heartfelt and ever-endearing – equal parts information and inspiration. This is a book to keep by your bedside and return to often.” —Amy Dickinson, nationally syndicated advice columnist "Ask Amy"
After a chance encounter with a remarkable ninety-year-old woman, renowned gerontologist Karl Pillemer decided to find out what older people know about life that the rest of us don’t. His quest led him to speak with a thousand Americans over the age of sixty-five—many of whom can remember the Depression and World War II. While some of their tales reaffirmed timeless wisdom, others surprised Pillemer with the unexpected. Now with a new preface by Jane Brody, 30 Lessons for Living distills their moving stories and hard-won advice. To learn how to live without regret, persevere through hard times, find fulfillment, and age fearlessly and well, there is no one better to ask than the people who have done it themselves.
This beautiful paperback edition features deckled edges and french flaps — a perfect gift for any occasion.
Foreword vii
Acknowledgments xi
A Note on Names xv
Chapter 1 Who Are the Wisest Americans and What Can They Tell Us? 1
Chapter 2 Great Together Lessons for a Happy Marriage 13
Chapter 3 Glad to Get Up in the Morning Lessons for a Successful and Fulfilling Career 51
Chapter 4 Nobody's Perfect Lessons for a Lifetime of Parenting 85
Chapter 5 Find the Magic Lessons for Aging Fearlessly and Well 125
Chapter 6 I Can Look Everyone in the Eye Lessons for Living a Life without Regrets 163
Chapter 7 Choose Happiness Lessons for Living like an Expert 197
Chapter 8 The Last Lesson 249
Ten Questions to Ask the Experts in Your Life 257
Appendix: How the Study was Done 261
Notes 269
Janelle1940
Posted February 16, 2012
I am 71 years old and I needed to be reminded of how important each day is. I was reminded of how I can choose to live my life.
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged.The author, a gerontologist interviews the "experts," people in their senior years about living a successful life. Most of these lessons are directed at younger adults who don't feel the pressure of how short time is. It is not likely however that many of these young adults will really be able to integrate that feeling into their daily lives; but for those few who can, this book is a good "how to" to make their lives more meaningful and worthwhile.
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged.Anonymous
Posted January 20, 2012
This book is an astounding collection of life lessons from those 70 and older. Pillemer brings it together in a very easy-to-read manner, making it easy to see why this is often called the "Greatest Generation." These people have been through much more than any of us (under 50) can imagine, making their knowledge, sense of humor, and suggestions very worthwhile. By categorizing them, Pillemer makes it easy to skip to sections that might be more significant for you. While some of the suggestions may garner an "easier said than done" cynicism, Pillemer was sure to ask his "experts" on tips for HOW to life a better life. This makes for simple yet effective suggestions on how to redirect your life before it's too late. Own it. Read it. Pass it on. It will change your life, and in the process, change the lives of everyone around you.
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged.Anonymous
Posted January 12, 2012
Insightful and very well written. The book transcends all ages - what a great concept. A MUST read!
2 out of 3 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged.Anonymous
Posted March 25, 2012
I have enjoyed this book through out. The author has a nice easy and pleasant style. My favorite parts are the quotes from the older and wiser generation. They give us answers to questions I wish I had asked my grandparents and parents before I lost them.
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged.Anonymous
Posted February 23, 2012
I was walking around BN not looking for any book in particular, this book caught my eye. I grabbed it thinking - I'll read a page and put it back. Read 10 pages realized I had to buy, finished it that night! As a young adult who works with "experts" everyday it gave me a refreshing outlook on how much seniors can offer with their life experiences. I loved how the book is sectioned off, makes it easier to navigate and find "wisdom" in the area you need most. This book makes you realize that you must appreciate each and everyday you get, and to always be happy!
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.
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Posted February 15, 2012
Although I've read books of life stories from the elderly before, this one was different because it offered direct advice for living life well. I really appreciated the perspective the elders were willing to share, and plan to take their advice to heart. I'll read this again.
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.
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Posted June 19, 2012
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Posted September 5, 2012
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Posted January 16, 2012
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Posted January 11, 2012
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Posted March 9, 2012
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Posted May 16, 2012
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Posted June 8, 2012
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Posted February 3, 2012
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Posted March 2, 2012
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Overview
“Heartfelt and ever-endearing – equal parts information and inspiration. This is a book to keep by your bedside and return to often.” —Amy Dickinson, nationally syndicated advice columnist "Ask Amy"
After a chance encounter with a remarkable ninety-year-old woman, renowned gerontologist Karl Pillemer decided to find out what older people know about life that the rest of us don’t. His quest led him to speak with a thousand Americans over the age of sixty-five—many of whom can remember the Depression and World War ...