Review of Not Dead Yet
- Claudia Angelucci
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Review of Not Dead Yet
Mark Fletcher's 'Not Dead Yet' artfully blends realism and humor, delivering a touching collection of fictional stories set in a nursing home with off-white walls, gray floors, and a one-note scent masking everything. According to 84-year-old resident Millie, it's a place where everything is bland—a place where they put you aside, and the only way out is when you die.
The book emphasizes the resilience of the elderly, urging readers not to dismiss them but rather to appreciate their stories, opinions, and decisions. The call is clear: don't treat them as if they are done. Although their bodies are slowing and crumbling, they are not dead yet, and their minds are worth listening to.
Jill, the new manager at the senior care facility, kicks off the narrative by facing spirited elderly residents protesting a sports day. Their poignant question, "Do you see us?" sets the tone for a journey that unveils untapped talents and weaves a tapestry of diverse and emotional stories, featuring characters like Frank, Elsie, Alexander, and Thomas.
The book poetically and hilariously unveils the nursing home saga: stale cake, tepid teas, Viagra, walking frames, soiled bed sheets, and shaky joints.
The narrative unfolds with heartfelt moments, ranging from witty banter with oxygen masks to unrequited love, poems, and songs evoking memories. Each chapter delves into the significance of recognizing the value of life's final moments. What are you leaving behind? What would you have done differently, knowing what you know now? What do you think happens next? The responses to these questions shape the essence of our lives as we conclude our journey.
Mark Fletcher skillfully guides readers on a captivating emotional journey, balancing humor, sorrow, and philosophical beauty. The characters are portrayed with genuine realism, and Shirley's cheeky stand-up comedy had me bursting into laughter.
The book appears to have undergone professional editing, as I didn't notice any factual errors while reading. Reading and reviewing this book was an absolute pleasure; I couldn't find a single thing to dislike. I wholeheartedly rate it 5 out of 5 stars.
Through simple yet touching tales, ‘Not Dead Yet’ nudges us to ponder life's brevity and meaning in a way that sticks with the heart.
******
Not Dead Yet
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- Gerry Steen
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Wow, Claudia, you discovered a real winner here. This book sounds delightful! When we slip into those elderly years we must make sure not to lose our spirit and joy for life. The elderly are our historians. They have been there and done that! It won't be too long before I will be joining their ranks. I will read up and get ready. This book is going on my bookshelves. Thank you for sharing your joy of reading this book with us.Claudia Angelucci wrote: ↑29 Jan 2024, 07:59 [Following is a volunteer review of "Not Dead Yet" by Mark Fletcher.]
Mark Fletcher's 'Not Dead Yet' artfully blends realism and humor, delivering a touching collection of fictional stories set in a nursing home with off-white walls, gray floors, and a one-note scent masking everything. According to 84-year-old resident Millie, it's a place where everything is bland—a place where they put you aside, and the only way out is when you die.
Mark Fletcher skillfully guides readers on a captivating emotional journey, balancing humor, sorrow, and philosophical beauty. The characters are portrayed with genuine realism, and Shirley's cheeky stand-up comedy had me bursting into laughter.
The book appears to have undergone professional editing, as I didn't notice any factual errors while reading. Reading and reviewing this book was an absolute pleasure; I couldn't find a single thing to dislike. I wholeheartedly rate it 5 out of 5 stars.
Through simple yet touching tales, ‘Not Dead Yet’ nudges us to ponder life's brevity and meaning in a way that sticks with the heart.
******
Not Dead Yet
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon | on Smashwords

- Paris Kumar
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Dear Reviewer, Claudia !Claudia Angelucci wrote: ↑29 Jan 2024, 07:59 [Following is a volunteer review of "Not Dead Yet" by Mark Fletcher.]
Mark Fletcher's 'Not Dead Yet' artfully blends realism and humor, delivering a touching collection of fictional stories set in a nursing home with off-white walls, gray floors, and a one-note scent masking everything. According to 84-year-old resident Millie, it's a place where everything is bland—a place where they put you aside, and the only way out is when you die.
The book emphasizes the resilience of the elderly, urging readers not to dismiss them but rather to appreciate their stories, opinions, and decisions. The call is clear: don't treat them as if they are done. Although their bodies are slowing and crumbling, they are not dead yet, and their minds are worth listening to.
Jill, the new manager at the senior care facility, kicks off the narrative by facing spirited elderly residents protesting a sports day. Their poignant question, "Do you see us?" sets the tone for a journey that unveils untapped talents and weaves a tapestry of diverse and emotional stories, featuring characters like Frank, Elsie, Alexander, and Thomas.
The book poetically and hilariously unveils the nursing home saga: stale cake, tepid teas, Viagra, walking frames, soiled bed sheets, and shaky joints.
The narrative unfolds with heartfelt moments, ranging from witty banter with oxygen masks to unrequited love, poems, and songs evoking memories. Each chapter delves into the significance of recognizing the value of life's final moments. What are you leaving behind? What would you have done differently, knowing what you know now? What do you think happens next? The responses to these questions shape the essence of our lives as we conclude our journey.
Mark Fletcher skillfully guides readers on a captivating emotional journey, balancing humor, sorrow, and philosophical beauty. The characters are portrayed with genuine realism, and Shirley's cheeky stand-up comedy had me bursting into laughter.
The book appears to have undergone professional editing, as I didn't notice any factual errors while reading. Reading and reviewing this book was an absolute pleasure; I couldn't find a single thing to dislike. I wholeheartedly rate it 5 out of 5 stars.
Through simple yet touching tales, ‘Not Dead Yet’ nudges us to ponder life's brevity and meaning in a way that sticks with the heart.
******
Not Dead Yet
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon | on Smashwords
Your insightful review beautifully captures the depth and impact of this book. It's evident that you deeply appreciated Mark Fletcher's 'Not Dead Yet' and captured its essence with eloquence. Your insights on character development and plot twists have piqued my curiosity. I'll definitely check out this book.
Best wishes to you for your insightful analysis, and may you continue to uncover and celebrate such captivating literary gems.

—Samuel Johnson
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