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Clara & Pig
Clara hates Vermont. Her son moved her here due to her dementia, but it was a mistake. There’s a squirrel murderer on the loose and management’s ignoring her concerns. Her pet pug, Pig, hates it too, threatened by a vengeful tenant and constrained by the cold, and senior residence rules that never end.
What’s more, strange letters from the dead arrive in Clara’s dreams. And someone's arranging her grandchildren’s toys into alarming scenes outside the front doors. Before it's too late, Clara hatches a plan to escape with the help of a non-binary youngster named Radish, Bonnie the eyelid artist, and Jimmy the overly popular owner of a working vehicle.
But escape may not be what Clara needs. Can she ever find peace in her new home and its colourful residents with a slowly fragmenting mind? At once horrifying and hilarious, “Clara & Pig” will captivate anyone who has ever loved a dog or watched a loved one struggle with dementia. Perfect for fans of Fredrik Backman’s "A Man Called Ove" and Lisa Genova’s "Still Alice."
What’s more, strange letters from the dead arrive in Clara’s dreams. And someone's arranging her grandchildren’s toys into alarming scenes outside the front doors. Before it's too late, Clara hatches a plan to escape with the help of a non-binary youngster named Radish, Bonnie the eyelid artist, and Jimmy the overly popular owner of a working vehicle.
But escape may not be what Clara needs. Can she ever find peace in her new home and its colourful residents with a slowly fragmenting mind? At once horrifying and hilarious, “Clara & Pig” will captivate anyone who has ever loved a dog or watched a loved one struggle with dementia. Perfect for fans of Fredrik Backman’s "A Man Called Ove" and Lisa Genova’s "Still Alice."
105 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2018
21 people want to read
About the author
Mary Ann Tippett
11 books60 followersMary Ann Tippett writes uplifting fiction from her home in Canada's capitol city.
She writes most of her novels in 3 days, a process she explains in her best selling guide, "Write A Novel In 3 Days: The Zone Method."
Her novella, "Pairs With Pinot," is an award-finalist romantic comedy about an app that guarantees a soulmate match, and a pair of wine lovers who fall under its cross hairs.
When she is not reading, she walks, writes and yearns for chocolate with peanut butter.
She writes most of her novels in 3 days, a process she explains in her best selling guide, "Write A Novel In 3 Days: The Zone Method."
Her novella, "Pairs With Pinot," is an award-finalist romantic comedy about an app that guarantees a soulmate match, and a pair of wine lovers who fall under its cross hairs.
When she is not reading, she walks, writes and yearns for chocolate with peanut butter.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
November 24, 2019
Tugged at my heart
I downloaded this book not knowing what to expect, I was intrigued by the title and the cover caught my eye. The author took a very real issue facing so many families today and made it relatable. I laughed, only to find myself choked up only moments later. The characters each came to life in mind and I related to each of their struggles. The book ended, for which I was unprepared, but after a few moments, I sighed and remembered this is indeed life. Tippet 's ability to draw you in and keep you there will leave you eagerly awaiting a sequel as I am.
I downloaded this book not knowing what to expect, I was intrigued by the title and the cover caught my eye. The author took a very real issue facing so many families today and made it relatable. I laughed, only to find myself choked up only moments later. The characters each came to life in mind and I related to each of their struggles. The book ended, for which I was unprepared, but after a few moments, I sighed and remembered this is indeed life. Tippet 's ability to draw you in and keep you there will leave you eagerly awaiting a sequel as I am.
November 25, 2018
One of the best books I’ve read this year.
When I first picked up Clara and Pig I thought it might be a children’s book, because of the name, and then seeing the cover my expectations changed to “quirky romance”. In fact it is neither of these things, it’s the intriguing story of Clara, a feisty older lady who has been forced to move from Florida to Vermont to be closer to her son. Clara has been driven to make this change by the onset of dementia, coupled with the loss of loved ones closer to home.
From the moment she arrives, Clara hates her new apartment, her neighbours, the weather and Vermont in general, and does not hesitate to express this. The author, Mary Ann Tippett, skilfully achieves the difficult task of making us like Clara and care about her despite the fact that most of the time she is rather unpleasant to everyone around her (except for her dog, Pig). The story touches sensitively on a subject many of us might prefer not to dwell on, the loss of control over our lives as we get older, and it’s impossible not root for Clara as she struggles to come to terms with the cards life has dealt her at this point in her life.
I loved this book, and in fact my only criticism of it would be that I wanted more, as it’s quite short. When the book closes there are a few questions left hanging, and not everything is neatly wrapped up and concluded like in a Dickens novel – but then again, such is life: there will always be uncertainty over the future, and this is central to the story, so perhaps it’s fitting that the reader should be left wondering about a few things as it draws to an end.
Overall it’s one of the best books I’ve read this year, simultaneously funny, moving, and extremely sad, and I wholeheartedly recommend it.
When I first picked up Clara and Pig I thought it might be a children’s book, because of the name, and then seeing the cover my expectations changed to “quirky romance”. In fact it is neither of these things, it’s the intriguing story of Clara, a feisty older lady who has been forced to move from Florida to Vermont to be closer to her son. Clara has been driven to make this change by the onset of dementia, coupled with the loss of loved ones closer to home.
From the moment she arrives, Clara hates her new apartment, her neighbours, the weather and Vermont in general, and does not hesitate to express this. The author, Mary Ann Tippett, skilfully achieves the difficult task of making us like Clara and care about her despite the fact that most of the time she is rather unpleasant to everyone around her (except for her dog, Pig). The story touches sensitively on a subject many of us might prefer not to dwell on, the loss of control over our lives as we get older, and it’s impossible not root for Clara as she struggles to come to terms with the cards life has dealt her at this point in her life.
I loved this book, and in fact my only criticism of it would be that I wanted more, as it’s quite short. When the book closes there are a few questions left hanging, and not everything is neatly wrapped up and concluded like in a Dickens novel – but then again, such is life: there will always be uncertainty over the future, and this is central to the story, so perhaps it’s fitting that the reader should be left wondering about a few things as it draws to an end.
Overall it’s one of the best books I’ve read this year, simultaneously funny, moving, and extremely sad, and I wholeheartedly recommend it.
December 10, 2018
Clara just moved from Florida to Vermont, she's still missed Florida. A perfect place where all memories framed on her mind. A place where her love for Max still there until forever. However, as her boy, Peter wants her to live near him. Clara has a cute dog, named Pig. At first, she hates to live in Vermont and hate her neighbor.
Clara met Bonnie and Jimmy when they were talking about dead Squirrel. That's must be a horrible scene for Clara because it means that the security at her apartment not concern about this. It made her worries about Pig. Yes, only Pig that she had after Max passed away and since she have to move here. When the first time Clara met Bonnie, she doesn't like her even tough Bonnie tried to be nice to her. And asked her to join in the Tai Chi group. But, it doesn't take any longer, Clara often hang out with Bonnie.
I received this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
When I picked this, I thought it was a children's book based on how cute the cover and the color combination that cheerful and seems romantics. But, I never expect it would be such a sweet story about being old and dementia. Such a lovely story.
Clara met Bonnie and Jimmy when they were talking about dead Squirrel. That's must be a horrible scene for Clara because it means that the security at her apartment not concern about this. It made her worries about Pig. Yes, only Pig that she had after Max passed away and since she have to move here. When the first time Clara met Bonnie, she doesn't like her even tough Bonnie tried to be nice to her. And asked her to join in the Tai Chi group. But, it doesn't take any longer, Clara often hang out with Bonnie.
I received this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
When I picked this, I thought it was a children's book based on how cute the cover and the color combination that cheerful and seems romantics. But, I never expect it would be such a sweet story about being old and dementia. Such a lovely story.
September 23, 2020
Clara & Pig, the first novel by Mary Ann Tippett has gathered simplicity and thought-provoking questions together.
Clara, a senior citizen, has been forced to move to Florida but she can’t live out her last few breaths in a foreign place she despises, and that despises her (as she thinks). Just settling down, she opens the boxes and one has an assortment of toys she kept in a hand-carved wardrobe back in Florida. The wardrobe stayed behind because it wouldn’t fit, she was told. She preferred to have the wardrobe rather than the toys.
Whatever the risks, she has to go back to the last place she identified as home. The place where she sensed community all around her. A brown squirrel belongs with other brown squirrels.
The simple present tense helps the simplicity and illustration at the same time and makes you experience the story scenes.
And not only the suspense and suspicious events, but also the serious (although small) challenges makes you stop reading, to think: about the future, about ageing and about some people around you, whose habits, manners and resistance against every kind of change might have annoyed you all the time before.
What is death really, Clara thinks, other than the slow snuffing out of every person you love. After all that roots you to this world is gone, surely that’s a spiritual kind of death the body has no choice but to follow.
This time maybe you feel understanding them: “I get letters in my dreams,” she says without intending to say it outside her head.
“What kind of letters?” Jimmy asks.
Clara looks him in the eyes, not sure if she can be honest.
“Painful ones. From people I love who left me forever.”
“Are they mean?” Bonnie asks.
Clara thinks about what mean is, then laughs to herself when she thinks mean is meaningless. It’s just one person’s perspective on what offends or hurts another person, she decides. “Yes and no,” she says. “They dredge up experiences I’d rather not remember.”
Weird? Aren't we, ourselves, weird sometimes:
“I paint dreams,” Bonnie offers. “Well, not dreams per se, but scenes that happen behind my eyelids.”
Jimmy and Clara turn toward Bonnie, their faces puzzled.
“When I close my eyes,” Bonnie says, “and focus – really focus on the backs of my eyelids – I see patterns. I always have.”
“What kind of patterns?” Clara asks.
“Depends. There are some repeating ones. Orange background with brown tree branch type engravings over it is typical. It’s a treat when I get purple or red or bright green colors. The patterns grow and shrink, so I can never nail it exactly. A couple of times I’ve had fireworks — splashes of vibrant colors erupting in front of me one after another. I’ve tried to keep the scenes going, and I’ve tried to make them stop, but I can’t control them. They come from someplace outside of me. One day I decided to paint them as best I can, and that makes me happy.”
“I get dream letters, and Bonnie gets eyelid art. What’s your disability?” Clara asks Jimmy.
“Special gift,” corrects Bonnie.
Jimmy thinks for a moment. “Not sure if I have one. Does a Kia count?”
One thing I didn't enjoy much, was emphasising again and again on the same thing:
“What a nice fellow,” Jimmy finally says.
“Girl you mean,” says Bonnie.
They look at Clara for confirmation. “Don’t look at me,” says Clara. “Whatever she is, I like him.
The slogans about necessity of opening our mind about gender keep repeating while this is not even the theme. The story metaphor metaphor in a few words is this:
“Seriously. There are studies, I guess, that prove squirrels are territorial. If you catch one and release it somewhere else, it will find its way back. Why? Because the new squirrel community will reject it.”
“That’s sad,” Clara says.
But despite all mentioned repeating demonstrations against sexism, funny that you find these kind of superstitions about poor snakes:
They walk outside and look at the patio together. The toy figures are back in their dilapidated circle, but instead of facing out, they are facing in. And the snake is missing.
Did you see the toy scene today? The snake is gone,” Radish says.
“That’s nice,” says Bonnie. “Without the snake, they can live together in peace.”
By the way, the story in general is an enjoyable read, which you might finish a couple of hours, while you feel the calm and joy of the atmosphere of the book, and you feel the mental conflicts and deep feelings and questions of a senior about life, and you got scenes and feelings to remember:
Why make friends when they just leave? Everyone leaves. Being alone means no one can hurt you, Clara thinks. She just wants to be alone, at home, with the ghosts of all who have left her, the ones who cannot hurt her again
. . .
Clara gets a chill from standing around watching her happy little pug and announces it’s time to head back. Pig slows down on the way so they take their time, stopping to read the announcements on the community center window, counting the wildflowers that survived the first snow, waving to a handful of other dogs walking their owners.
. . .
She glances at Jimmy, who has gone quiet all of a sudden. He is staring at the window. The sun is out and the untouched snow on the lawn across the driveway sparkles. “Tired, Jimmy?”
“No, I was just thinking,” he says. “I’m in the mood for adventure. What if the three of us road trip to Florida? I’ll drive.”
Clara, a senior citizen, has been forced to move to Florida but she can’t live out her last few breaths in a foreign place she despises, and that despises her (as she thinks). Just settling down, she opens the boxes and one has an assortment of toys she kept in a hand-carved wardrobe back in Florida. The wardrobe stayed behind because it wouldn’t fit, she was told. She preferred to have the wardrobe rather than the toys.
Whatever the risks, she has to go back to the last place she identified as home. The place where she sensed community all around her. A brown squirrel belongs with other brown squirrels.
The simple present tense helps the simplicity and illustration at the same time and makes you experience the story scenes.
And not only the suspense and suspicious events, but also the serious (although small) challenges makes you stop reading, to think: about the future, about ageing and about some people around you, whose habits, manners and resistance against every kind of change might have annoyed you all the time before.
What is death really, Clara thinks, other than the slow snuffing out of every person you love. After all that roots you to this world is gone, surely that’s a spiritual kind of death the body has no choice but to follow.
This time maybe you feel understanding them: “I get letters in my dreams,” she says without intending to say it outside her head.
“What kind of letters?” Jimmy asks.
Clara looks him in the eyes, not sure if she can be honest.
“Painful ones. From people I love who left me forever.”
“Are they mean?” Bonnie asks.
Clara thinks about what mean is, then laughs to herself when she thinks mean is meaningless. It’s just one person’s perspective on what offends or hurts another person, she decides. “Yes and no,” she says. “They dredge up experiences I’d rather not remember.”
Weird? Aren't we, ourselves, weird sometimes:
“I paint dreams,” Bonnie offers. “Well, not dreams per se, but scenes that happen behind my eyelids.”
Jimmy and Clara turn toward Bonnie, their faces puzzled.
“When I close my eyes,” Bonnie says, “and focus – really focus on the backs of my eyelids – I see patterns. I always have.”
“What kind of patterns?” Clara asks.
“Depends. There are some repeating ones. Orange background with brown tree branch type engravings over it is typical. It’s a treat when I get purple or red or bright green colors. The patterns grow and shrink, so I can never nail it exactly. A couple of times I’ve had fireworks — splashes of vibrant colors erupting in front of me one after another. I’ve tried to keep the scenes going, and I’ve tried to make them stop, but I can’t control them. They come from someplace outside of me. One day I decided to paint them as best I can, and that makes me happy.”
“I get dream letters, and Bonnie gets eyelid art. What’s your disability?” Clara asks Jimmy.
“Special gift,” corrects Bonnie.
Jimmy thinks for a moment. “Not sure if I have one. Does a Kia count?”
One thing I didn't enjoy much, was emphasising again and again on the same thing:
“What a nice fellow,” Jimmy finally says.
“Girl you mean,” says Bonnie.
They look at Clara for confirmation. “Don’t look at me,” says Clara. “Whatever she is, I like him.
The slogans about necessity of opening our mind about gender keep repeating while this is not even the theme. The story metaphor metaphor in a few words is this:
“Seriously. There are studies, I guess, that prove squirrels are territorial. If you catch one and release it somewhere else, it will find its way back. Why? Because the new squirrel community will reject it.”
“That’s sad,” Clara says.
But despite all mentioned repeating demonstrations against sexism, funny that you find these kind of superstitions about poor snakes:
They walk outside and look at the patio together. The toy figures are back in their dilapidated circle, but instead of facing out, they are facing in. And the snake is missing.
Did you see the toy scene today? The snake is gone,” Radish says.
“That’s nice,” says Bonnie. “Without the snake, they can live together in peace.”
By the way, the story in general is an enjoyable read, which you might finish a couple of hours, while you feel the calm and joy of the atmosphere of the book, and you feel the mental conflicts and deep feelings and questions of a senior about life, and you got scenes and feelings to remember:
Why make friends when they just leave? Everyone leaves. Being alone means no one can hurt you, Clara thinks. She just wants to be alone, at home, with the ghosts of all who have left her, the ones who cannot hurt her again
. . .
Clara gets a chill from standing around watching her happy little pug and announces it’s time to head back. Pig slows down on the way so they take their time, stopping to read the announcements on the community center window, counting the wildflowers that survived the first snow, waving to a handful of other dogs walking their owners.
. . .
She glances at Jimmy, who has gone quiet all of a sudden. He is staring at the window. The sun is out and the untouched snow on the lawn across the driveway sparkles. “Tired, Jimmy?”
“No, I was just thinking,” he says. “I’m in the mood for adventure. What if the three of us road trip to Florida? I’ll drive.”
December 22, 2018
*I received a free copy via Bookstasters to review. This is my honest review.*
Clara and Pig sounded a bit contemporary and I was a bit skeptical about it at first because I am not a huge fan, but it was a light and fun read.
We meet Clara as a senior citizen who was just moved from Sunny Florida to Vermont into a new apartment that she clearly does not want to be in. Throughout the story it is evident that Clara suffers form early on-set Dementia and this condition was the reason her son wanted her to move closer to him. However, Clara sees it as a move away from everything she knew and loved. A friendship grows with Bonnie and Jimmy after a dead pinned squirrel is seen on a tree and Clara gets a scolding form Bonnie to pick her her dog's pig poop. The three takes us on a journey of friendship, discovery and possible weird mystery of the dead squirrel.
I have to say I actually enjoyed this book and read it in a weekend. I loved Clara's personality and character development in the story the most. Most would think Clara was just upset about the move, but realize there is so much more that she is and go through the motions with her. Although she may mention not wanting to live unless living in her memories, she still has some fight in her. I think this was brought on by the mystery of the squirrel as well as her curiosity of her budding friendship. Clara wanted to live and thrive and didn't necessarily realize it. Another highlight of the book was the friendship. The bond between Clara, Bonnie and Jimmy felt real. It didn't feel like a forced relationship between them and the author did a great job in making sure it stayed that way. they all had their flaws or preferences, but somehow made it work in their friendship.
I also appreciated the relationship between mother and son. It was clear that Peter was looking into the best interest of his mom even if she didn't see it. This relationship also felt genuinely and I think the author portrayed well the struggle of Peter wanting to help his mom, but also wanting to give her her own liberty to live.
There were some hiccups in the story that became confusing at times. I was wondering if they were trying to replicate memory loss in anyway because there were points in the story that didn't flow as well. However, overall this book was a good read.
Clara and Pig sounded a bit contemporary and I was a bit skeptical about it at first because I am not a huge fan, but it was a light and fun read.
We meet Clara as a senior citizen who was just moved from Sunny Florida to Vermont into a new apartment that she clearly does not want to be in. Throughout the story it is evident that Clara suffers form early on-set Dementia and this condition was the reason her son wanted her to move closer to him. However, Clara sees it as a move away from everything she knew and loved. A friendship grows with Bonnie and Jimmy after a dead pinned squirrel is seen on a tree and Clara gets a scolding form Bonnie to pick her her dog's pig poop. The three takes us on a journey of friendship, discovery and possible weird mystery of the dead squirrel.
I have to say I actually enjoyed this book and read it in a weekend. I loved Clara's personality and character development in the story the most. Most would think Clara was just upset about the move, but realize there is so much more that she is and go through the motions with her. Although she may mention not wanting to live unless living in her memories, she still has some fight in her. I think this was brought on by the mystery of the squirrel as well as her curiosity of her budding friendship. Clara wanted to live and thrive and didn't necessarily realize it. Another highlight of the book was the friendship. The bond between Clara, Bonnie and Jimmy felt real. It didn't feel like a forced relationship between them and the author did a great job in making sure it stayed that way. they all had their flaws or preferences, but somehow made it work in their friendship.
I also appreciated the relationship between mother and son. It was clear that Peter was looking into the best interest of his mom even if she didn't see it. This relationship also felt genuinely and I think the author portrayed well the struggle of Peter wanting to help his mom, but also wanting to give her her own liberty to live.
There were some hiccups in the story that became confusing at times. I was wondering if they were trying to replicate memory loss in anyway because there were points in the story that didn't flow as well. However, overall this book was a good read.
October 4, 2019
"What is death, really, Clara thinks, other than the slow snuffing out of every person you love. After all that roots you to this world is gone, surely that's a spiritual kind of death the body has no choice but to follow." -- Clara & Pig
First of all, I was drawn in by the cover. I read the Kindle version, but this is a book I would've picked up from the shelf in a bookstore, too. This book is about Clara, a no-nonsense elderly woman with a pug. She's been recently transplanted from Florida to Vermont to be closer to her son (against her will.) Clara is only semi-aware of the fact that she's suffering from dementia. She knows that some things are "dreams" and because of the story being told from her point of view, it's hard to know what is real and what is not, which gives the reader a sense of Clara's struggle. As the reader, you'll constantly be asking yourself what is real and what is going on in her head.
I worked in healthcare finance for eleven years and dealt with many dementia patients during that time, and still have many friends in that field. The stories of these people are sometimes heartbreaking. Hats off to Tippett for telling one of these stories. It is peppered with humorous situations, which is how it can be sometimes with dementia patients, but the reality is the loneliness and fear that comes with forgetting everything. Tippett is sure to point out Clara's fear of forgetting deceased family members and friends, and her coping mechanism for this is genius (don't want to give any spoilers.)
This is a short read, and it is worth the couple of hours you'll invest to hear Clara's story and get some insight into the mind of a dementia patient.
First of all, I was drawn in by the cover. I read the Kindle version, but this is a book I would've picked up from the shelf in a bookstore, too. This book is about Clara, a no-nonsense elderly woman with a pug. She's been recently transplanted from Florida to Vermont to be closer to her son (against her will.) Clara is only semi-aware of the fact that she's suffering from dementia. She knows that some things are "dreams" and because of the story being told from her point of view, it's hard to know what is real and what is not, which gives the reader a sense of Clara's struggle. As the reader, you'll constantly be asking yourself what is real and what is going on in her head.
I worked in healthcare finance for eleven years and dealt with many dementia patients during that time, and still have many friends in that field. The stories of these people are sometimes heartbreaking. Hats off to Tippett for telling one of these stories. It is peppered with humorous situations, which is how it can be sometimes with dementia patients, but the reality is the loneliness and fear that comes with forgetting everything. Tippett is sure to point out Clara's fear of forgetting deceased family members and friends, and her coping mechanism for this is genius (don't want to give any spoilers.)
This is a short read, and it is worth the couple of hours you'll invest to hear Clara's story and get some insight into the mind of a dementia patient.
November 19, 2018
I was expecting a children’s book when I saw the title because I didn’t read the excerpt or summary before choosing it.
I was pleasantly surprised to see it wasn’t, instead it’s a book about senior citizens. The Author has my appreciation for a wonderful read. I read this in less than two hours and enjoyed every second of it. It’s a page turner and very well written with wonderful descriptions of the characters and their environment.
This book is about Clara and her pet pug named pig who is a very happy dog. Clara’s life is turned upside down as she learns to cope with change while resisting it every step of the way. She’s dealing with loss, pain, loneliness and luckily new friendships.
I wasn’t ready for this book to end! I was really annoyed with the Author when I saw “The End” at the end of the paragraph lol
I would definitely have read more and I am willing to read more from her.
This book made me think of my grandparents and seniors in general. We need to be more kind and understanding towards our elders.
I was pleasantly surprised to see it wasn’t, instead it’s a book about senior citizens. The Author has my appreciation for a wonderful read. I read this in less than two hours and enjoyed every second of it. It’s a page turner and very well written with wonderful descriptions of the characters and their environment.
This book is about Clara and her pet pug named pig who is a very happy dog. Clara’s life is turned upside down as she learns to cope with change while resisting it every step of the way. She’s dealing with loss, pain, loneliness and luckily new friendships.
I wasn’t ready for this book to end! I was really annoyed with the Author when I saw “The End” at the end of the paragraph lol
I would definitely have read more and I am willing to read more from her.
This book made me think of my grandparents and seniors in general. We need to be more kind and understanding towards our elders.
September 10, 2020
This was a fun and quick book to read! Poor Clara is forced to move from Florida to Vermont (I would be pissed as well!) It's cold and she doesnt know anyone but her son. She's moved into a retirement community and immediately befriends some residents while making some enemies. This is a snapshot into the life of a woman who is slowly slipping into senility and her dog who is along for the ride. There are humorous moments as well as some heartbreaking ones. The only negative I can say about this book is there is no real plot its more of like a "day in the life" look at this woman who's life is in her final few years and the tragedy of having most of the people you loved throughout your life already passed away and trying to deal with the little bit you have left while your mind is slipping away. She pretty much has to start over with a new place of residence and to make new friendships and people to care about. That can't be easy to deal with, neither for Clara nor her son.
January 22, 2019
When I picked up the book to review, I thought it's a book for children. The first page, I thought it'd be a romance. But it turns out I was wrong twice.
I do empathize with Clara. In my imagination, she used to be an independent woman before dementia happens and that's what makes her rude, sarcastic, except to Pig.
Despite her age and her wounded body also ego, I'm glad she can still find her people in the place she does not feel belong to.
The story is such a heartwarming one. It brought me laughter, tears, and there were moments when I had to take a moment of silence to let the words sink in.
There were some minor mistakes in punctuation (blame my major!) and typing, but it's still doing fine. I feel the story is rather short, as well -- even though it took me kinda long to finish because life happened.
I do empathize with Clara. In my imagination, she used to be an independent woman before dementia happens and that's what makes her rude, sarcastic, except to Pig.
Despite her age and her wounded body also ego, I'm glad she can still find her people in the place she does not feel belong to.
The story is such a heartwarming one. It brought me laughter, tears, and there were moments when I had to take a moment of silence to let the words sink in.
There were some minor mistakes in punctuation (blame my major!) and typing, but it's still doing fine. I feel the story is rather short, as well -- even though it took me kinda long to finish because life happened.
September 22, 2019
This is a wonderful story. 👏🏻
The protagonists are Clara, a feisty older lady, and her dog, a pug named Pig she loves dearly. Clara has been forced to move from Florida to Vermont for health reasons; so her son, Peter, can keep a close eye on her. She hates everything about her new environment, and she does not mince her words about it either. Despite her feisty and outspoken character, Clara is very likeable and endearing. This could be the story of many of us in our old age, that’s why she is so relatable. It is a sweet story about living with dementia in our older years, while processing the memories of a lifetime, and perhaps a few regrets. Difficult subjects are related by the author with sensitivity, with humour and empathy. Such a sweet book, which I read quickly as it flows easily. I enjoyed this book, it makes you think. Loved it ❤️
The protagonists are Clara, a feisty older lady, and her dog, a pug named Pig she loves dearly. Clara has been forced to move from Florida to Vermont for health reasons; so her son, Peter, can keep a close eye on her. She hates everything about her new environment, and she does not mince her words about it either. Despite her feisty and outspoken character, Clara is very likeable and endearing. This could be the story of many of us in our old age, that’s why she is so relatable. It is a sweet story about living with dementia in our older years, while processing the memories of a lifetime, and perhaps a few regrets. Difficult subjects are related by the author with sensitivity, with humour and empathy. Such a sweet book, which I read quickly as it flows easily. I enjoyed this book, it makes you think. Loved it ❤️
March 10, 2019
For starters, we must thank the author of "Clara & Pig" for blessing us with a novel that has such a shocking ending, one that is not only fitting the strong beginning of the story, but also one that compels you to go all the way back to the first page ready to read the whole work again with both new perspective and an urge to hunt hidden clues. We follow Clara's daily life for a short while before we can figure out how short that while actually was. "Clara & Pig" excelled in reflecting the seniors' perspective of life in a simple honoring way that is not that common in the fiction genre. Maybe you will finish this book in instance, but I'm sure you will spend much longer thinking about it and revisiting its incidents.
September 16, 2019
Clara, an older citizen, has been forced to move from Florida to Vermont to be closer to her son. This sudden move is due to the fact that she suffers from dimentia.
From the moment she arrives in Vermont, Clara hates everything. Her apartment, the neighbors, the weather and she makes sure everyone is aware of her displeasure. There are many important and touchy subjects that were addressed in this book but the author did a great job in delivering an emotional heartfelt story that engulfs you from start to finish.
It was wonderful reading Clara’s development as she faces her fate.
I must mention that the book is rather short but that didn’t affect its delivery.
Overall it’s a great story. Funny, emotional, and written with so much care.
From the moment she arrives in Vermont, Clara hates everything. Her apartment, the neighbors, the weather and she makes sure everyone is aware of her displeasure. There are many important and touchy subjects that were addressed in this book but the author did a great job in delivering an emotional heartfelt story that engulfs you from start to finish.
It was wonderful reading Clara’s development as she faces her fate.
I must mention that the book is rather short but that didn’t affect its delivery.
Overall it’s a great story. Funny, emotional, and written with so much care.
November 6, 2018
Clara & Pig was easy to read. I breezed through it in a weekend. It's a book that balances being humorous and emotional all at the same time. You can find yourself laughing and crying on the same page. And it's especially relatable for people touched by dementia.
The author did a great job setting the scenes with descriptive wording throughout the book. And I ended up feeling as though I really knew the characters. I definitely recommend this book. It's very well-written and a lovely quick read.
I wasn't ready for the book to end. The author left me wanting more. I'd definitely read another novel by Mary Ann Tippett.
The author did a great job setting the scenes with descriptive wording throughout the book. And I ended up feeling as though I really knew the characters. I definitely recommend this book. It's very well-written and a lovely quick read.
I wasn't ready for the book to end. The author left me wanting more. I'd definitely read another novel by Mary Ann Tippett.
February 18, 2019
This is a gem of a book, funny and sweet, the type of book that you can't put down. The dialogue is brilliant and unpredictable, as is the narrative. Clara is an uncompromising old lady who has to come to terms with the present. Will she? Won't she? We follow her misdemeanors as well as her inner life with growing affection. Mary Ann Tippett paints Clara's portrait (and Pug's) with great sensitivity and knowledge, while the all-pervading sense of humor makes this a book you will enjoy from beginning to end.
May 15, 2019
"....Clara says, eyeing the spectacle of a person in Patrick's chair.
'Cute dog,' says the spectacle."
#IndieApril read number 2.
This one was different than what I expected, but I blame myself for reading the back incorrectly.
A lady, Clara, is moved to an old-folks home closer to her son because of her dementia. She has to deal with the neighbors and a squirrel murderer, and "someone keeps moving my stuff."
Tippet eloquently shows us inside the dementia-cracked mind of Clara, displaying both blot and reality with ease.
(Also, Pig is Clara's dog)
'Cute dog,' says the spectacle."
#IndieApril read number 2.
This one was different than what I expected, but I blame myself for reading the back incorrectly.
A lady, Clara, is moved to an old-folks home closer to her son because of her dementia. She has to deal with the neighbors and a squirrel murderer, and "someone keeps moving my stuff."
Tippet eloquently shows us inside the dementia-cracked mind of Clara, displaying both blot and reality with ease.
(Also, Pig is Clara's dog)
October 4, 2019
I’m a writer and horrible with writing reviews. Go figure. I truly loved this book. I would have given it five stars except it left me wanting more (the story ends with unanswered questions). I’m a person who like my stories ending all neat and tidy. Maybe that was the point; life isn’t tidy and it just keeps moving forward. Regardless, the writing is outstanding, and I enjoyed every moment while reading it. And so unique! Way to go, Marry Ann. A definite must read.
November 2, 2018
This book is fascinating. Every character are truly lovable and you will fall involve with them. The plot of the story are well written and entertaining too.. This boo will make you laugh and cry at the same time... 😀
February 10, 2019
Cute, painful, funny, and frustrating. Clara & Pig was short and sweet, and I almost wish I had another 100 pages of their adventures. Thank you to Booktasters for the free copy!
August 14, 2022
This is a great book with a hint of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime mixed with A Man Called Ove. I appreciate Tippet's choice of topic. Dementia is not an easy one, and the plight of the elderly is so often overlooked.
Reading this was hard for me, but also therapeutic. It reminded me so much of my grandmother and her fight with dementia. I didn't get to see her much in the final years if her life because it was too hard to be treated like a complete stranger. This book also reminds me of my mom's struggle and pain back then, wanting to do what was best for her mother, while facing the pain of a terrified woman who knew something was wrong but couldn't remember what it was. I feel so much for Clara and her son in this book.
The ending didn't do it for me, but I do understand Tippet is setting things up for another book. I look forward to it! And thank you for a meaningful, thoughtful read.
Reading this was hard for me, but also therapeutic. It reminded me so much of my grandmother and her fight with dementia. I didn't get to see her much in the final years if her life because it was too hard to be treated like a complete stranger. This book also reminds me of my mom's struggle and pain back then, wanting to do what was best for her mother, while facing the pain of a terrified woman who knew something was wrong but couldn't remember what it was. I feel so much for Clara and her son in this book.
The ending didn't do it for me, but I do understand Tippet is setting things up for another book. I look forward to it! And thank you for a meaningful, thoughtful read.
August 27, 2019
I found this book a fairly quick read, although once you get to the end, it's almost worth re-reading it with the added dimension of the son's life. I was disappointed when the book ended, I could have read much more about Clara's adventures. I think the author has written this book from a very difficult viewpoint. It has to be hard to voice a character with dementia showing her memories, her actual experiences and her interaction with others around her who also may be suffering from some aging issues.
Many of us have experienced the decline of a parent and the delicate balance of trying to care for them when they are no longer able to make the best decision for themselves. The portrayal of Clara is very sensitively done. The whole subject is written with a very light hand, the gravity of the situations Clara gets into are not hammered home, but they are inferred to. This makes it a lighthearted read for anyone to enjoy.
Many of us have experienced the decline of a parent and the delicate balance of trying to care for them when they are no longer able to make the best decision for themselves. The portrayal of Clara is very sensitively done. The whole subject is written with a very light hand, the gravity of the situations Clara gets into are not hammered home, but they are inferred to. This makes it a lighthearted read for anyone to enjoy.
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