Review of Not Dead Yet

[Tejas Koli]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Not Dead Yet" by Mark Fletcher.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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"Not Dead Yet" offers a thoughtful exploration of aging, identity, and community through a series of moving short stories set in an Australian aged care facility. Author Mark Fletcher crafts empathetic portraits of the diverse residents living at the home as they grapple with declining abilities, loss, and discovering purpose in their later years.

The collection gets off to a dramatic start with "Jill," in which the new customer service manager learns she must truly "see" the residents as individuals rather than stereotypes or boxes to check. This sets the stage for deeper insights into each character. Stories like "Frank and Douglas" highlight the complexities of maintaining one's autonomy and selfhood in the face of others' assumptions. Political and social views also emerge from unlikely sources in tales like "#OldPeopleVote."

Fletcher has an eye for poignant, quietly humorous details that bring his subjects to life. He captures the rhythms of daily interactions between residents as well as those caring for them. Universal themes of friendship, creativity, and finding fulfillment in small moments resonate throughout. At the same time, the residents' individual struggles never feel exploited for sentimentality. Overall, the editing of the book is well done, as there are no grammatical errors, which gives a seamless read. "Not Dead Yet" offers a nuanced portrait of aging with dignity. Fletcher celebrates humanity in all its diversity, proving that growing old does not diminish one's capacity for growth. He takes readers inside this often marginalized community to find humor, wisdom, and compassion. While the realities of infirmity are never sugarcoated, the emphasis remains on living fully in the present. There are no negative points to mention.

"Not Dead Yet" would appeal to readers of literary fiction as well as those interested in gerontology, healthcare, and sociology. Its gentle insights demonstrate that later life brings not only loss but also opportunity. Mark Fletcher sensitively explores what it means to stay vibrant in mind and spirit to the end. His short stories linger in memory, reminding us all to cherish each day and see beyond superficial categories to the richness within. I would rate it 5 out of 5.

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Not Dead Yet
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