Recessional: A Novel

by James A. Michener

Hardcover, 1994

Collection

Description

The challenges and rewards faced by older adults and their families is the subject at the heart of this provocative new novel. Set in a Florida retirement center called the Palms, the book follows a group of unforgettable residents over the course of a year as their humorous, triumphant narratives unfold.

Rating

½ (53 ratings; 3.8)

User reviews

LibraryThing member santhony

Pretty disappointing effort from Michener, centered on life at a Florida retirement home.

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LibraryThing member catsalive

An enjoyable tale. The nursing & other medical care was interesting, as were the people. A little sentimental in spots but forgiveable.

Recessional: noun. A hymn or other piece of music played at the end of a service while the congregation is filing out.

LibraryThing member wareagle78

I have had this book around for many years, in fact it is one of the oldest Bookcrossing books I have in my home - I've had it since 2004. Yet when I picked it up this week, I sped through it.

I love [[James Mitchener]], although in general I have to be in the mood to tackle one of his sweeping

tomes. [Recessional] was different. It is a tighter story than his general sweeping tale of a place (think [Tales of the South Pacific] or [Hawaii]). The story of a doctor running from his profession due to lawsuits and high insurance premiums, it becomes a panorama of an upscale Florida retirement community. The residents and staff are fascinating, the backstory of making such a community popular and profitable interesting as well. My parents are in just such a community, although not in Florida, and what I read rang true in many ways. Michener adds his love of place in the descriptions of the flora and fauna of the Tampa community, and I found those portions of the story rewarding as well. Many of the vignettes of the residents left me teary-eyed. This book may not be for everyone, but I found it well-written and enjoyable.

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