This is a complex graphic memoir, exploring many topics, many of which are founded on naiveté. Anyone traveling to a remote work site must recognize tThis is a complex graphic memoir, exploring many topics, many of which are founded on naiveté. Anyone traveling to a remote work site must recognize that there will be challenging aspects—right? There is boredom, isolation, perhaps depression — all of which workers will be coping with in various ways, some of them maladaptive and self-destructive.
I didn't learn anything from this book, unlike other readers who said they had no idea what the situation was like in these locations.
The structure of the book was a bit chaotic. At times there was a linear storyline, but at other points it was simply anecdotal. The main characters at each work site were introduced, but they were hard to tell apart.
Beaton wonders whether the work site warps the character of the men, or does it simply reveal their underlying natures. She also mentions that there were hundreds of men, co-workers, who did not bother or harass her, but it was the nuisance men, the obnoxious ones, who get all the attention.
There is a life lesson here, in the big economic picture. Yes you may find a high-paying job, but what price will you pay for that?...more
2021 update. Did a quick reread to prepare for a bookclub. One bookclub member who trained Care Aides was very complimentary about how this memoir ent2021 update. Did a quick reread to prepare for a bookclub. One bookclub member who trained Care Aides was very complimentary about how this memoir entered the world of personal support workers and other health care professionals. This comment warmed my heart, because these workers do an incredible job in difficult circumstances, and are not always appreciated. ❤️
This book grew out of several visits I made to see my father, when he was in his 90s and living in a small town in Nova Scotia.
The result, I hope, is funny, sad, and true. It's as true as I could make it. The humour is the real-life kind, where we are embarrassed by all the things we can't control, and frustrated by everything that is embarrassing!
The front cover excerpt from blurb says, "Life-giving and bracingly honest" (from David Chariandy, author of Brother). Another reviewer said the book was "gently self-deprecating" and "surprisingly funny and a pleasure to read."
My heart goes out to all those who are embracing the beauty and pain of aging parents....more
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