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Magic O'Clock: A fictional tale of dementia and hope
Archie Royle is a kind, funny, gentle man.
He’s also my dad. My storyteller. My hero.
Except he doesn’t remember my face any more.
His world, these days, doesn’t include me or his family.
Life may have changed for him, but he hasn’t given up on life.
Not at all.
It’s just different.
Dad still tells his stories, albeit for a new audience.
He makes people smile and chuckle. As he always did.
He’s a fighter, a survivor and maybe sometimes too clever for his own good! He’ll surprise you. I can assure you of that.
Welcome to Magic O’Clock, where time is irrelevant and hope is unlimited.
This story is purely fictional, but the emotions are all too real.
He’s also my dad. My storyteller. My hero.
Except he doesn’t remember my face any more.
His world, these days, doesn’t include me or his family.
Life may have changed for him, but he hasn’t given up on life.
Not at all.
It’s just different.
Dad still tells his stories, albeit for a new audience.
He makes people smile and chuckle. As he always did.
He’s a fighter, a survivor and maybe sometimes too clever for his own good! He’ll surprise you. I can assure you of that.
Welcome to Magic O’Clock, where time is irrelevant and hope is unlimited.
This story is purely fictional, but the emotions are all too real.
- GenresShort Stories
15 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 13, 2017
4 people are currently reading
28 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
October 14, 2018
Favorite Quotes:
Every day, without fail, shortly before three o’clock, he stops everything and heads off to his command post ready to enthrall his eager listeners. No watch is needed to tell him when it’s time. It’s purely instinctive and part of the daily marvel I have come to cherish.
The grandfather clock in the main vestibule strikes once, then again and finally the third chime rings out. Dad is back. Complete with his confident mannerisms and easy charm. The lost soul that inhabits his body and mind for most of the day is vanquished for now and the man in his place is my father of old. My heart skips a beat as the transformation takes effect and the wonderful, self-assured storyteller prepares to weave his tale.
He is a true word-smith, a man for whom eloquence and diction make pillow talk while he sleeps.
Audience participation is his specialty. He loves teasing them into a frenzy. The nurses are constantly telling him not to, after all, some of these people have serious conditions, and too much excitement can be dangerous. But Archie’s response is always the same, ‘at least they’ll die with a smile on their face.’
My Review:
A delightfully vivid, tender, and heart-squeezing tale of bittersweet observations and inner musings. L.S. Fellows is a master storyteller with immediate engagement and a keenly crafted storyline.
Every day, without fail, shortly before three o’clock, he stops everything and heads off to his command post ready to enthrall his eager listeners. No watch is needed to tell him when it’s time. It’s purely instinctive and part of the daily marvel I have come to cherish.
The grandfather clock in the main vestibule strikes once, then again and finally the third chime rings out. Dad is back. Complete with his confident mannerisms and easy charm. The lost soul that inhabits his body and mind for most of the day is vanquished for now and the man in his place is my father of old. My heart skips a beat as the transformation takes effect and the wonderful, self-assured storyteller prepares to weave his tale.
He is a true word-smith, a man for whom eloquence and diction make pillow talk while he sleeps.
Audience participation is his specialty. He loves teasing them into a frenzy. The nurses are constantly telling him not to, after all, some of these people have serious conditions, and too much excitement can be dangerous. But Archie’s response is always the same, ‘at least they’ll die with a smile on their face.’
My Review:
A delightfully vivid, tender, and heart-squeezing tale of bittersweet observations and inner musings. L.S. Fellows is a master storyteller with immediate engagement and a keenly crafted storyline.
September 15, 2017
“If tears could build a stairway,
And memories a lane,
Then I’d walk right up to Heaven,
And bring you home again.” (Anon)
Heart wrenching novella of a family beaten down by the loathsome disease of Dementia.
Read more here:
https://teewaibiblichor.wordpress.com...
And memories a lane,
Then I’d walk right up to Heaven,
And bring you home again.” (Anon)
Heart wrenching novella of a family beaten down by the loathsome disease of Dementia.
Read more here:
https://teewaibiblichor.wordpress.com...
December 4, 2017
I'm afraid Alzheimer's runs on my mother's side of the family. I wasn't sure if this would be a painful read or not. It was and it wasn't as the author brought a ray of hope in writing about the main character Archie and how he always lit up at 3:00 to entertain with his stories.
The number 3 in numerology means joy of living. I'm always looking for the symbology when I read.
The author did a beautiful job with descriptions.
The number 3 in numerology means joy of living. I'm always looking for the symbology when I read.
The author did a beautiful job with descriptions.
April 14, 2018
This story is very heart-touching in a short, simple way, yet it has the same detail and love crafted into it as a full story would. Heck, I would even go as far as to say that this story has more detail than some full length novels I've read. I don't know how, but the author managed to make the characters - especially Archie - so real, I could literally feel the emotion in the room as Archie spoke and told his tale. That's real writing talent right there, especially given the length of this short story.
I don't know much about dementia other than the given - memory loss - but I feel like even those who don't know much about the disorder can appreciate this little story because the emotion is so strong and it can happen to anyone. I don't know much about the disorder itself, but my great-grandmother did suffer from it for the last couple years of her life before passing away when she was 91, I 16. So, even though I was pretty young when she passed, I feel like I can resonate with this story because I do remember when she had good and bad days, and I do remember when she started to decline much more rapidly. It's a scary thing, but this story was very heartfelt and, though scary and sad, it was quite touching, too. Seeing Archie light up and then decline the way he did in such a short amount of time felt very raw and very real to me. I definitely think this story will resonate with me, as I hope it will with some other readers too.
I don't know much about dementia other than the given - memory loss - but I feel like even those who don't know much about the disorder can appreciate this little story because the emotion is so strong and it can happen to anyone. I don't know much about the disorder itself, but my great-grandmother did suffer from it for the last couple years of her life before passing away when she was 91, I 16. So, even though I was pretty young when she passed, I feel like I can resonate with this story because I do remember when she had good and bad days, and I do remember when she started to decline much more rapidly. It's a scary thing, but this story was very heartfelt and, though scary and sad, it was quite touching, too. Seeing Archie light up and then decline the way he did in such a short amount of time felt very raw and very real to me. I definitely think this story will resonate with me, as I hope it will with some other readers too.
October 8, 2018
4.5*
As it states in the blurb, this short story may be fictional but the emotions are all too real and will resonate with lots of people, me included. Told from the view point of the youngest of three daughters whose beloved father suffers from dementia. She visits the care home every day at three o’clock. That’s when the magic happens. Regardless of what he’s doing and where his mind is, instinctively shortly before three, Archie makes his way to the lounge full of residents who are waiting for him to tell one of his stories. The marked change in Archie’s demeanour during this short time defies reason and gives his daughter hope.
'The lost soul that inhabits his body and mind for most of the day is vanquished for now and the man in his place is my father of old.’
Anyone who has lost a parent or close relative to the debilitating effects of dementia knows how much a glimmer of recognition would mean. The author has captured the heartache and emotions perfectly without being maudlin, rather spotlighting the positive aspects….how confident and charming Archie becomes when he’s delivering his entertaining stories and captivating his audience. They love listening to him and for that short time Archie is the man he used to be. These are the moments of hope.
'His gaze catches mine and a flicker of recognition flashes across his face.’
The three o’ clock reference gives hope that some things stay rooted in the mind, even if they can’t be expressed. An incredibly powerful, well written and touchingly realistic story.
As it states in the blurb, this short story may be fictional but the emotions are all too real and will resonate with lots of people, me included. Told from the view point of the youngest of three daughters whose beloved father suffers from dementia. She visits the care home every day at three o’clock. That’s when the magic happens. Regardless of what he’s doing and where his mind is, instinctively shortly before three, Archie makes his way to the lounge full of residents who are waiting for him to tell one of his stories. The marked change in Archie’s demeanour during this short time defies reason and gives his daughter hope.
'The lost soul that inhabits his body and mind for most of the day is vanquished for now and the man in his place is my father of old.’
Anyone who has lost a parent or close relative to the debilitating effects of dementia knows how much a glimmer of recognition would mean. The author has captured the heartache and emotions perfectly without being maudlin, rather spotlighting the positive aspects….how confident and charming Archie becomes when he’s delivering his entertaining stories and captivating his audience. They love listening to him and for that short time Archie is the man he used to be. These are the moments of hope.
'His gaze catches mine and a flicker of recognition flashes across his face.’
The three o’ clock reference gives hope that some things stay rooted in the mind, even if they can’t be expressed. An incredibly powerful, well written and touchingly realistic story.
October 12, 2018
https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...
This is the first book I have read by this author and I thought she dealt with the sensitive topics in the book very well, and I was so impressed with her style of writing that I read the second book she had written in this series, Magical Memories directly after finishing this one.
This story is beautifully written and it was one that stayed with me, I cannot imagine how hard it is to see a family member lose their memories be it through Alzheimer’s or Dementia. This will take you through a lot of emotions and it is a very poignant story. I loved the idea of the magic o’clock.
Five stars from me for this one!
This is the first book I have read by this author and I thought she dealt with the sensitive topics in the book very well, and I was so impressed with her style of writing that I read the second book she had written in this series, Magical Memories directly after finishing this one.
This story is beautifully written and it was one that stayed with me, I cannot imagine how hard it is to see a family member lose their memories be it through Alzheimer’s or Dementia. This will take you through a lot of emotions and it is a very poignant story. I loved the idea of the magic o’clock.
Five stars from me for this one!
September 22, 2017
A complimentary ARC was provided to this reviewer for an honest, unbiased review.
Imagine that someone you loved very much simply disappeared. Imagine that you know they become visible again for an hour each day at three o'clock, and you go to that place every day at three just to see your loved one. But you can't talk to them or touch them or even reveal yourself to them, because if you do, they'll disappear again immediately.
That's the scenario presented in all its joy and pathos in L.S. Fellows' short story/novella, Magic O'Clock. The story is so empathetic, enthralling, and eloquent that even readers who thought the subject of dementia held no interest for them will be delighted.
One is tempted at several points to simply stop in the middle of the narrative to revel in the beauty of a particular line or phrase. An example might be this passage from the first paragraph of the story:
"It's not that I'm hiding, but Dad no longer recognizes me and it pains me to see his blank expression whenever I visit. I'll make myself known later. After the miracle."
In these phrases, the narrator (a fictional character, not the author) describes the changed man who enters the magic place each day at three:
"He no longer slouches. Instead, he stands upright, shoulders back, chin jutting upward, arms glued to his sides, and thumbs point to the floor."
What an insightful, clear, and wonderful mental image that shows us much more than merely the outward appearance of the man. The melancholy yet celebratory prose continues a page further on:
"The lost soul that inhabits his body and mind for most of the day is vanquished for now and the man in his place is my father of old."
Later in the magic hour, the narrator shares, "He is a true word-smith, a man for whom eloquence and diction make pillow talk while he sleeps." I might say exactly the same of author L.S. Fellows.
Add Magic O'Clock to your reading list immediately. It is so brief and beautiful that you will find yourself re-reading it from time to time (no pun intended) simply to relive the nuances of love so poetically presented in this story.
Imagine that someone you loved very much simply disappeared. Imagine that you know they become visible again for an hour each day at three o'clock, and you go to that place every day at three just to see your loved one. But you can't talk to them or touch them or even reveal yourself to them, because if you do, they'll disappear again immediately.
That's the scenario presented in all its joy and pathos in L.S. Fellows' short story/novella, Magic O'Clock. The story is so empathetic, enthralling, and eloquent that even readers who thought the subject of dementia held no interest for them will be delighted.
One is tempted at several points to simply stop in the middle of the narrative to revel in the beauty of a particular line or phrase. An example might be this passage from the first paragraph of the story:
"It's not that I'm hiding, but Dad no longer recognizes me and it pains me to see his blank expression whenever I visit. I'll make myself known later. After the miracle."
In these phrases, the narrator (a fictional character, not the author) describes the changed man who enters the magic place each day at three:
"He no longer slouches. Instead, he stands upright, shoulders back, chin jutting upward, arms glued to his sides, and thumbs point to the floor."
What an insightful, clear, and wonderful mental image that shows us much more than merely the outward appearance of the man. The melancholy yet celebratory prose continues a page further on:
"The lost soul that inhabits his body and mind for most of the day is vanquished for now and the man in his place is my father of old."
Later in the magic hour, the narrator shares, "He is a true word-smith, a man for whom eloquence and diction make pillow talk while he sleeps." I might say exactly the same of author L.S. Fellows.
Add Magic O'Clock to your reading list immediately. It is so brief and beautiful that you will find yourself re-reading it from time to time (no pun intended) simply to relive the nuances of love so poetically presented in this story.
December 23, 2017
Seventy-year-old Archie Royle is the author’s dad—her storytelling hero who is stricken with dementia. At this stage in his life, Archie doesn’t know his own daughters or family anymore, and he lives in a world of his own time and making. But even though he struggles to recall the woman who stops in daily to chat with him and hear his stories, he seems quite happy existing in a place where time is irrelevant and hope is boundless.
At only 16 pages, “Magic O’clock” is a very short read, but Fellows’ fictional tale really packs a punch. While she stands by watching helplessly as her father’s condition continues to decline, she offers a unique insight into the world of dementia. This consummate master storyteller expertly demonstrates how Archie weaves an intricate web of wild and amazing adventures as she plays these imaginings against the vivid tapestry of his real-life events.
Certainly, Fellows mirrors her father’s talent and charisma in the telling of her tale. And, her deep and everlasting love for her dad shines through in this story within a story. I highly recommend this touching and charming tale to anyone who is dealing with a parent or loved one suffering with dementia. “Magic O’Clock” offer us the gift of peering out the proverbial window while gently and carefully revealing both the joys and sorrows associated with this disease.
At only 16 pages, “Magic O’clock” is a very short read, but Fellows’ fictional tale really packs a punch. While she stands by watching helplessly as her father’s condition continues to decline, she offers a unique insight into the world of dementia. This consummate master storyteller expertly demonstrates how Archie weaves an intricate web of wild and amazing adventures as she plays these imaginings against the vivid tapestry of his real-life events.
Certainly, Fellows mirrors her father’s talent and charisma in the telling of her tale. And, her deep and everlasting love for her dad shines through in this story within a story. I highly recommend this touching and charming tale to anyone who is dealing with a parent or loved one suffering with dementia. “Magic O’Clock” offer us the gift of peering out the proverbial window while gently and carefully revealing both the joys and sorrows associated with this disease.
October 9, 2018
This is such a short story but crammed full of love and heart-warming moments as well as the sheer desolation that dementia unfolds in a person.
Magic O’Clock highlights the life of Archie, a much loved husband and dad. While his daughter visits him daily in the residential home she enters those doors with trepidation in the hope that today could be the one in which her father shows a glimmer of recognition.
She soon finds there is something magical happening each day at 3pm .. this is the time Archie savours as his own and it’s such a sweet event. To find out exactly what happens you will have to read the story. For anyone who has ‘lost’ someone to dementia it will surely give a little twinkle in amongst the grey clouds.
I was immediately drawn into Magic O’Clock it is written with such honesty and emotion from the daughters’ perspective. If you don’t have any experience of this horrendous disease why not spend a coffee break reading this, it will certainly give you an insight.
Magic O’Clock highlights the life of Archie, a much loved husband and dad. While his daughter visits him daily in the residential home she enters those doors with trepidation in the hope that today could be the one in which her father shows a glimmer of recognition.
She soon finds there is something magical happening each day at 3pm .. this is the time Archie savours as his own and it’s such a sweet event. To find out exactly what happens you will have to read the story. For anyone who has ‘lost’ someone to dementia it will surely give a little twinkle in amongst the grey clouds.
I was immediately drawn into Magic O’Clock it is written with such honesty and emotion from the daughters’ perspective. If you don’t have any experience of this horrendous disease why not spend a coffee break reading this, it will certainly give you an insight.
October 8, 2018
This is a very quick but heart-touching story of a daughter visiting her much loved father who has dementia but brings light into the world of all those around him every day at 3 o'clock when he shares his stories. He no longer recognises his family but always realises when it is story time and shares a different story to the other residents of the care home where he now lives. The author has an amazing talent to take the reader right into the care home to listen to Archie as he shares his story whilst his youngest daughter listens on. It is only sixteen pages long but easily manages to be an emotive, well crafted and thoroughly enjoyable short story of something we all hope never to experience.
I was gifted a copy of this book with no obligation and this is my review after choosing to read it.
I was gifted a copy of this book with no obligation and this is my review after choosing to read it.
October 14, 2018
All my reviews can be found at: http://jessicasreadingroom.com
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The introduction sums up this short story perfectly:
You can miss someone who died,
You can miss someone who moved away,
But the worst is when you miss someone you see every day.
Magic O’Clock is written in first person and Fellows tells us the fictional story of her father Archie, who had Dementia. You can feel everything she deals with in the loss of her father not knowing who she is anymore. She captures the beauty and hope when her father possibly ‘reappears’ for those few moments.
Fellows skillfully captures what family members go through who have to deal with this terrible disease.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The introduction sums up this short story perfectly:
You can miss someone who died,
You can miss someone who moved away,
But the worst is when you miss someone you see every day.
Magic O’Clock is written in first person and Fellows tells us the fictional story of her father Archie, who had Dementia. You can feel everything she deals with in the loss of her father not knowing who she is anymore. She captures the beauty and hope when her father possibly ‘reappears’ for those few moments.
Fellows skillfully captures what family members go through who have to deal with this terrible disease.
September 13, 2017
Wow, what a beautiful story that will make you cry. My nan had dementia and the author describes the emotions so perfectly. An absolutely stunning piece of work
October 9, 2018
Archie is a resident in a care home, he has dementia and doesn’t recognise people. But at 3 pm Archie comes into his own relating tales and stories that has everyone in rapture, a chance to get a glimpse of the man he was.
This is a fictional story that gives a momentary glimpse into the emotions when a family member doesn’t know who you are. This is only a few pages long and in it are such a range of emotions as you would expect. This is from the perspective of a family member, the pain and grief of still being able to see the physical person but not recognising the inner personality was done so well. It carried the feeling and also some humour.
This story shows two sides to dementia; the forgetful side but also the lucid side. A quick enjoyable read that is sad but in a way that shows love and honesty. A wonderful read and a perfect introduction to the next book; Magical Memories.
This is a fictional story that gives a momentary glimpse into the emotions when a family member doesn’t know who you are. This is only a few pages long and in it are such a range of emotions as you would expect. This is from the perspective of a family member, the pain and grief of still being able to see the physical person but not recognising the inner personality was done so well. It carried the feeling and also some humour.
This story shows two sides to dementia; the forgetful side but also the lucid side. A quick enjoyable read that is sad but in a way that shows love and honesty. A wonderful read and a perfect introduction to the next book; Magical Memories.
December 26, 2017
This was a delightful story. It pulls at your heartstrings and makes you question your family relationships. Then at the end, it shows you a silver lining. There is a definite message of hope to this realistic story of dealing with aging and mental illness.
Highly recommended to fans of hopeful or inspirational fictional drama.
Highly recommended to fans of hopeful or inspirational fictional drama.
August 17, 2017
This short, fictional read packs an emotional punch that will stay with the reader long after the story is finished. It will also resonate with those who have ‘lost’ loved ones and friends to Dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Archie Royle is ‘lost’ to his family, stolen from his children by Dementia shortly after losing his wife… the love of his life.
The retirement-home resident has a daily routine, though. One of his daughters returns daily to witness his routine and see the father she remembers from… before—and perhaps with a little hope, he will remember her.
The author does a wonderful job of showing the daughter’s despair and anger, but it’s a daughter’s love for her father that shines through this bittersweet tale.
Magic O’clock tugged at my heartstrings.
While my late father didn’t have Dementia, he did have ‘memory lapses’ when he’d leave his eighty-eight-year-old mind and once again be the nine-year-old boy helping his father care for their horses.
When the author mentions Archie’s plaid trousers, I was done for. Those were a favorite of my dad’s, although he would forever call them ‘checkedy.’
I highly recommend this short story, and keep the tissues close.
Enjoy!
Archie Royle is ‘lost’ to his family, stolen from his children by Dementia shortly after losing his wife… the love of his life.
The retirement-home resident has a daily routine, though. One of his daughters returns daily to witness his routine and see the father she remembers from… before—and perhaps with a little hope, he will remember her.
The author does a wonderful job of showing the daughter’s despair and anger, but it’s a daughter’s love for her father that shines through this bittersweet tale.
Magic O’clock tugged at my heartstrings.
While my late father didn’t have Dementia, he did have ‘memory lapses’ when he’d leave his eighty-eight-year-old mind and once again be the nine-year-old boy helping his father care for their horses.
When the author mentions Archie’s plaid trousers, I was done for. Those were a favorite of my dad’s, although he would forever call them ‘checkedy.’
I highly recommend this short story, and keep the tissues close.
Enjoy!
May 13, 2017
L S Fellows has written a love story that is beautiful beyond words. Those of us who have lost a loved one to the ravages of dementia can identify immediately with the strong emotional undercurrent that carries this well-crafted story to its inevitable conclusion.
I received a free copy of this book with the option of leaving an honest review.
I received a free copy of this book with the option of leaving an honest review.
July 1, 2017
It’s a well crafted, beautifully written story. Short but powerful. My eyes watered at the very first paragraph. It’s a story of love and loss. Someone you love becomes a stranger, and you can’t even blame him. The narrator watches her own father socializing in a distance, like what he did when she was a child in a playground. I pictured the scene and felt the irony of life. It is sad but the author does not dwell on sorrow, instead she focuses on the cheerful side of the story. Archie brings joy to others’ lives with his wonderful story telling skills. He’s so animated and imaginative. There are funny moments too, that further lighten the mood. It’s a story that touches my heart, and I’ll remember it for a long time.
May 13, 2017
Magic O Clock is beautifully written and very much heartfelt. It is a story sadly, too many of us will be able to relate to. Dementia is a difficult subject matter to tackle and all credit must go to the author who has captured it delicately with a gentle hand. Magic O Clock is a small book with a big heart.I found the portrayal of Archie well drawn and believable. Magic O Clock was easy to read and well written, the characters were well drawn and engaging. I look forward to reading more from this obviously talented author.
May 22, 2017
A beautiful short story. I felt the pain and the joy through the author's words and have to admit I had a lump in my throat. I have been blessed by NOT knowing anyone who suffering from Dementia and my heart goes out to those who do. Wordsmith Archie has heightened my awareness how being in one world, you an also be living in another at the same time. A great short, heightens awareness, well written ....and brings a lump to your throat and a tear to your eye...Well done L S Fellows.
August 25, 2017
Such a nice little story. It was filled with so much emotion it made me feel a wave of empathy for both the character in the story as well as everyone living with Alzheimers. This story actually opened my eyes and made me realise that even though a person might not remember us because they are ill, we should stop being so selfish and feel hurt because they don't. It is not by choice and we should appreciate the moments they do remember. A really heartfelt story which I enjoyed reading.
June 25, 2017
Excellent Story
I loved this story. It is so well written that I felt as if I was there. This was a touching story of a father and a daughter who have had dementia touch their lives. Definitely 5 stars.
I loved this story. It is so well written that I felt as if I was there. This was a touching story of a father and a daughter who have had dementia touch their lives. Definitely 5 stars.
May 10, 2017
Beautifully written story told from the heart. Although it is fiction, I could feel the pain of Archie's daughter and the hope.
October 12, 2018
I decided to do something different and do my review of both books in the same post. This is the first books I'm reading of L.S. Fellows and I don't think that "enjoy" is the right word for what I feel for the books. The strong subjects of the books made this story different from every other book, but there is this light in "Magic O'Clock" and "Magical Memories" that leave us wondering about life, about our loved ones, about the decline of mental health because of dementia... And it makes us think about what really matters in life.
It was an emotional journey reading these two books. That's part of the reason I decided to write one review to talk about both books. As a social educator we talked about dementia in several classes while in college, so I know about it, I know from a perspective of the caretaker in the care home, but reading this book was a totally different experience and it left my heart broken.
In "Magic O'Clock" we met the characters. We learn about Archie and his daughter. We learn about his dementia and the rare moments of lucidity that brings joy to his daughter because she's able to see, even if just for a few minutes, her dad. And as he retells his past... It as like listening to my grandparents. He was a storyteller during that few minutes at 3 o'clock.
In "Magical Memories" it's about say goodbye to a loved one, and personally it was emotional because I could only remember my grandparents and that hurt me some, and I could connect with the characters because of it. That been said... it was another book telling us the story of the people with dementia and the loved ones, and we see another side of that, more struggles, especially when it's time to say goodbye.
Despite the emotional journey in this books and the dark subjects there is still a light. And the good memories are a constant feature in the books, it's what makes the books have a good balance and makes us think, before or after crying, feel hopeless and at the same time loved.
The books made me thing of all the happy and funny memories I have of all the family members that have passed away, and all those that are having an hard time with health problems. It really is the beautiful, happy, loving memories that matter in the end. It's how we touched our loved ones hearts and lives.
It was an emotional journey reading these two books. That's part of the reason I decided to write one review to talk about both books. As a social educator we talked about dementia in several classes while in college, so I know about it, I know from a perspective of the caretaker in the care home, but reading this book was a totally different experience and it left my heart broken.
In "Magic O'Clock" we met the characters. We learn about Archie and his daughter. We learn about his dementia and the rare moments of lucidity that brings joy to his daughter because she's able to see, even if just for a few minutes, her dad. And as he retells his past... It as like listening to my grandparents. He was a storyteller during that few minutes at 3 o'clock.
In "Magical Memories" it's about say goodbye to a loved one, and personally it was emotional because I could only remember my grandparents and that hurt me some, and I could connect with the characters because of it. That been said... it was another book telling us the story of the people with dementia and the loved ones, and we see another side of that, more struggles, especially when it's time to say goodbye.
Despite the emotional journey in this books and the dark subjects there is still a light. And the good memories are a constant feature in the books, it's what makes the books have a good balance and makes us think, before or after crying, feel hopeless and at the same time loved.
The books made me thing of all the happy and funny memories I have of all the family members that have passed away, and all those that are having an hard time with health problems. It really is the beautiful, happy, loving memories that matter in the end. It's how we touched our loved ones hearts and lives.
August 9, 2018
Reviewed by Rosie Malezer for Readers' Favorite
Magic O’Clock is a fictional narrative of dementia and hope, written by Lynne Fellows. Although it is difficult to adjust when somebody dies, it is often more difficult to face the day with somebody you love, when you look into their eyes and know that they are looking back at a stranger. With her father’s new home being the Sunnyside Retirement Village, the narrator’s father, Archie Royle, smiles as he shuffles along, eager to entertain those who have gathered to hear his latest story. Such a wordsmith is Archie that his captivated audience makes no sound, hungrily eating up every single word, as if breaking a fast. You see, three o’clock is a magic hour, each and every day, when coherency magically returns so that Archie may talk of the many wonderful moments of his incredible life, whether real, imagined, or seen on television.
I was left smiling at the end of this short, but incredible story. Whilst fiction, it captures the reality of the harsh, yet seemingly lulling illness that is dementia. Lynne Fellows’ tale of a father who brightens up the room each day, putting a smile and a cheer on the faces of all those who listen, is beautiful, yet sad. Memories of my own father’s hugs brighten my days, and mean everything to me. I cannot even imagine how painful it must be for the families of those who suffer from dementia, just hoping for one moment of recognition on the face of one they love so deeply. Not only was I intrigued by Magic O’Clock (such a fitting title), but it was interesting to see one’s closest family member through the eyes of the author. Descriptive in nature and extremely well written, Magic O’Clock is recommended to all who have been touched by dementia, whether through a loved one or through their own experiences in life.
Magic O’Clock is a fictional narrative of dementia and hope, written by Lynne Fellows. Although it is difficult to adjust when somebody dies, it is often more difficult to face the day with somebody you love, when you look into their eyes and know that they are looking back at a stranger. With her father’s new home being the Sunnyside Retirement Village, the narrator’s father, Archie Royle, smiles as he shuffles along, eager to entertain those who have gathered to hear his latest story. Such a wordsmith is Archie that his captivated audience makes no sound, hungrily eating up every single word, as if breaking a fast. You see, three o’clock is a magic hour, each and every day, when coherency magically returns so that Archie may talk of the many wonderful moments of his incredible life, whether real, imagined, or seen on television.
I was left smiling at the end of this short, but incredible story. Whilst fiction, it captures the reality of the harsh, yet seemingly lulling illness that is dementia. Lynne Fellows’ tale of a father who brightens up the room each day, putting a smile and a cheer on the faces of all those who listen, is beautiful, yet sad. Memories of my own father’s hugs brighten my days, and mean everything to me. I cannot even imagine how painful it must be for the families of those who suffer from dementia, just hoping for one moment of recognition on the face of one they love so deeply. Not only was I intrigued by Magic O’Clock (such a fitting title), but it was interesting to see one’s closest family member through the eyes of the author. Descriptive in nature and extremely well written, Magic O’Clock is recommended to all who have been touched by dementia, whether through a loved one or through their own experiences in life.
September 21, 2018
Archie is in his seventies amd is in a residential care home being totally looked after as dementia has sadly taken over his brain. However at 3 o’clock each afternoon he appears to come to life. He walks that bit better. he stands that bit taller as he walks to the conservatory to tell his daily story. His daughter sits on the sidelines hidden knowing he will neither recognise her not acknowledge her presence. Archie is a troy teller to behold- he paints pictures and raises emotions and many a smile with his words.
These are two difficult subjects to not only read about but to write and have been done in an exceptional way and will touch anyone who has lost a much loved parent. This evokes memories amongst the emotions which range from tears to immense smiles. I could imagine Archie and his stories- we have all come across those real characters occasionally and we fondly remember them . A real treasure of a read.
For more reviews please see my blog http://nickibookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
or follow me on Twitter @nickijmurphy1
These are two difficult subjects to not only read about but to write and have been done in an exceptional way and will touch anyone who has lost a much loved parent. This evokes memories amongst the emotions which range from tears to immense smiles. I could imagine Archie and his stories- we have all come across those real characters occasionally and we fondly remember them . A real treasure of a read.
For more reviews please see my blog http://nickibookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
or follow me on Twitter @nickijmurphy1
October 16, 2018
*I received a free ARC of this book with thanks to the author and Rachel Gilbey at Rachel’s Random Resources blog tours. The decision to review and my opinions are my own.*
Magic O’Clock is a sweetly sad short story about the loss of self of dementia.
The two main characters are the nameless narrator and her father, Archie, and the premise is simple yet very moving. The focus is on the narrators thoughts and feelings as she watches her father go through his daily routine in the care home he lives in.
There is little to no interaction between the two, but they both share in the love of stories and storytelling and have an unusual bonding moment whilst one of them is unaware.
This story is a lovely one for families with loved ones suffering from dementia as it offers a hope that part of the person they once were remains.
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
Magic O’Clock is a sweetly sad short story about the loss of self of dementia.
The two main characters are the nameless narrator and her father, Archie, and the premise is simple yet very moving. The focus is on the narrators thoughts and feelings as she watches her father go through his daily routine in the care home he lives in.
There is little to no interaction between the two, but they both share in the love of stories and storytelling and have an unusual bonding moment whilst one of them is unaware.
This story is a lovely one for families with loved ones suffering from dementia as it offers a hope that part of the person they once were remains.
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
October 15, 2022
This is a brief but moving novella about the persistence of personhood and possibility, even in the dark places of dementia. Archie no longer recognizes his daughter, but at 3 o'Clock each day he rises above the devastation of his illness to entertain his fellow carehome residents with a feat of storytelling - stories from his life, stories composed of fragments recalled and reassembled, stories full of panache and presences. In these precious moments, he becomes himself again. I have seen such transformations wrought by music and singing, I have seen it with baking cakes and preparing bread - why not with storytelling also? I believed this story. There is a deep narrative here, a poignant tale about who we are, and what is to be a person, but it is also a real and plausible everyday story about the strange ways that the human spirit can rise above its disabilities. Of course, the pain for the daughter - unrecognised, still loving her father - but there is joy here too. A lovely book.
October 12, 2018
This was just absolutely emotional and beautiful. I don’t think I’ve ever read anything like it. The way the created LS Fellows wrote this story was magnificent, and in such a short amount of pages, an entire story was told.
Archie has dementia. I’ve only been around it once, so I have a bit of knowledge, but I pray I never know what it’s like to have a loved one go through this. It was heartwarming when Archie found himself at 3pm to tell his stories. I felt like I was in the room, listening to him. It was devastating when he declined again, and the disease took back over. Wow! What an emotional journey I was taken on.
I highly recommend this one. It will have you laughing along side Archie, and crying along side our narrator. It’s beautiful.
*I received a copy of this book as part of a blog tour. All opinions are my own.*
Archie has dementia. I’ve only been around it once, so I have a bit of knowledge, but I pray I never know what it’s like to have a loved one go through this. It was heartwarming when Archie found himself at 3pm to tell his stories. I felt like I was in the room, listening to him. It was devastating when he declined again, and the disease took back over. Wow! What an emotional journey I was taken on.
I highly recommend this one. It will have you laughing along side Archie, and crying along side our narrator. It’s beautiful.
*I received a copy of this book as part of a blog tour. All opinions are my own.*
December 29, 2018
What wonderful books these both are. They are written with compassion, honesty and from the heart.
Magic O'Clock tells the story of Archie who is in a care home with dementia. His daughter visits him daily, at 3 o'clock Archie makes his way to the communal lounge, takes a seat in front of his captive audience and retells a story from his past. For that few minutes the dementia disappears and his daughter sees a glimpse of her Dad.
L.S.Fellows beautifully depicts the brighter days amongst the dark and how all the matters in the end is he continuing love that remains and the beautiful memories you've made.
L.S.Fellows beautifully depicts the brighter days amongst the dark and how all the matters in the end is he continuing love that remains and the beautiful memories you've made.
September 2, 2019
A short story that managed to convey all of the sadness of dementia and the occasional upsides too - the heartbreak of a loved one not remembering who you are; the glimpse of the person who is now lost to us but in brief moments shines through as they once were. The writer states that it's a work of fiction but I feel sure that their life must have been touched by dementia too. A lovely story and I have now downloaded 'Magical Memories' to read too.
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