6 Novels to Read If You’re Freaked Out About Getting Old

I’m in the middle of reading Switzy and while it’s VERY GOOD, it’s also feeding all my anxieties about getting old. It’s reminding me of Still Alice, which I read a million years ago and still haunts my dreams. What if I’m already losing my mind? What if it’s too late for me to accomplish anything new? I know I’m being ridiculous! But also… am I?

Okay, this wasn’t meant to make you spiral too! This is meant to cheer us both up. So: If getting older / losing your faculties is freaking you out - here are a few books to cheer you up and give you hope. I for one would very much like to be a senior citizen who worries her children because she’s always off having adventures and solving mysteries.

The Correspondent, Virginia Evans — a sharp, complicated older woman with plenty left to say.

Mrs. Quinn’s Rise to Fame, Olivia Ford — for the fear that it’s too late to do something new.

Remarkably Bright Creatures, Shelby Van Pelt — for friendship and an unexpected future after loss.

The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, Deborah Moggach — for the possibility of starting over somewhere entirely new.

How to Age Disgracefully, Clare Pooley — for refusing to become well behaved with age.

The Thursday Murder Club, Richard Osman — the perfect payoff to your wish to alarm your children by solving mysteries.

Happy, hopeful reading!

xo, L

p.s. I share the books I read in my weekly newsletter: I’ll Have What She’s Having. You should sign up!