A Necessary End

by Nick Taylor

A touching and beautifully written story of Nick Taylor’s journey with his parents to the end of their lives. Millions of children are taking similar journeys, which is why the Washington Post called A Necessary End “one of the key stories of our time.”

Genres: Nonfiction

208 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1994

About the author

born 1945

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name.

Reviews

[Bob · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nick Taylor's fine little book is a sobering record of the challenge the author faces in the passing first of his mother and than of his father. I would have related differently to the story had I read it in my 50s when my own parents died. Now, at age 71, I wonder if I should recommend the book to my own children who will someday face the challenge of dealing with me and my wife as our necessary ends come upon us.
Of all the wonders that I yet have heard,
It seems to me most strange the men should fear;
Seeing that death, a necessary end,
Will come when it will come.
--from Julius Caesar, by William Shakespeare

[Sara B · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very realistic look at what happens when your parents get old and life catches up. Depressing with simple yet emotionally evoking writing.

[JoAnn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was depressing, but extremely fitting to the life I am living right now. It is about a man who is facing the end of his parent's lives. He watches as their independence slowing becomes their dependence on him. He is an eye-witness to the failing of our healthcare system.

It was a quick read, that brought to light all the emotions I face everyday. In some aspects, I have it better. My Mom is in the next room, not across the country.

[Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was weeding books at work and this was on the list as a book that hadn't circulated in almost ten years. After glancing at it, I knew it was something I had to read; another memoir about losing parents. Excellent --- love and guilt combined. Now that I checked it out, I can replace it back in the collection.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

We read this for my church book club and had a great discussion. Very thoughtful book.