Another country Navigating the emotional terrain of our elders

The other "country" of the title is the land of old age, separated from the rest of us by language, custom, and capabilities. As Pipher (Reviving Ophelia, which tackled the terrain of teenage girls) writes, the oldÄparticularly the "old old," those dealing not just with age but with infirmity, grief, and diminished capacitiesÄare often emotionally separated from their children and grandchildren because of differences that the younger folks don't understandÄand she endeavors to set that right. Using stories of some of her clients to illustrate problems faced by the old and their families, Pipher gives a deeper understanding of what the old are going through and how the transition to that other country, and then to the end of life, can be eased for all. Throughout, she stresses the need for community and companions, showing how sometimes the emotional or physical problems of the aged can be eased simply by having other people need and love them. As read by Joan Allen, whose soft yet expressive voice lends tenderness, feeling, and even a touch of humor to the author's words, this is an enriching work, one that takes a sad, depressing topic and makes it a source for inspiration and thought. Full of insight and compassion, this provides a vivid glimpse into the other country for those seeing their elders go there, as well as those people preparing for their own journey; highly recommended for all audio collections.ÄSally G. Waters, Stetson Coll. of Law Lib., St. Petersburg, FL (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.