Even though this book is supposed to prod people into preparing for end of life scare, or at least educating them on the issue. Didactic elements aside, this is a good story. Yes, it makes its points about ending up in a situation where you cannot a) communicate your wishes, and b) want to connect with a family member but not sure how that will effect your care because you've been estranged from that person (in this case the protagonist's son) and the family member may be put in a position of making decisions for you. It's a problem that could occur a thousand ways.
The doctor who wrote this book tells a complex character story about guy named Paul and the events in his life that shaped him and his decisions. As a story, aside from its theme, it's a very good slice of life tale about the 1960s and 1970s with exploration of the usual themes of Vietnam, divorce, alienation from society and an aversion to responsibility. In other words, even if you have your end of life care stuff straight, read it if you want a good story.
LINK: Beautifully Absurd by Robert Ashley M.D.
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