The Privilege of Aging: Portraits of Twelve Jewish Women Paperback – August 1, 2013

THE PRIVILEGE OF AGING: Portraits of Twelve Jewish WomenBy: Patricia Gottlieb ShapiroReview by: Pat Burroughs Kutay and Steve KutayLike cream on milk, this book rises to the top among other books that reflect on the subject of how we might view aging. In "The Privilege of Aging" Pat Shapiro skillfully introduces us to twelve extraordinary women, their lives and the lessons they've learned. The fact that the subjects are Jewish simply gives us the specific background and sets the stage for their encounters. Beyond that, the lives they have created can be adapted to anyone's experience, no matter what his or her age, heritage or background.These narratives--including quotes from the women themselves, along with the gentle, articulate guidance of the author--bring the reader face to face with the self-awareness, courage and positive attitude of these women, helping us see that we don't need to associate resignation and giving up when we think of growing old. In offering us these individual stories, the author reveals each woman's unique gifts--whether her perceptions, accomplishments, curiosity, risk-taking, adaptability, or vibrant spirit. Having never known my grandparents, I feel as if the author created twelve grandmothers for me. Now, if only I can live up to their values and their wisdom.

Purchase Review for The Privilege of Aging: Portraits of Twelve Jewish WomenThe book contained well-written shot bios of interesting women. They sound like people I might know. Our book club will discuss this book next month.

Don't let the subtitle fool you. That these women are all Jewish does not limit the wisdom they impart to us through the author. Shapiro assembled a group of remarkable women with honed life skills and lots to teach about satisfying living at any age. Then she interviewed them, found the commonalities in their philosophies and passed them along to us, a to-do list that, if we implement it, probably assures we will age in as "privileged" a manner as these women did. (One of the best tactics in the book is called "the sour grapes theory"--worth the price of the book just to learn this!) Thanks for doing the legwork for us, Pat Shapiro!

The Privilege of Aging is also a privilege to read. With crisp prose, many quotes, and gentle storytelling skills, Pat Shapiro has shaped the narratives of twelve women, to tell a larger story of women's resilience in coping with life's challenges. This well crafted book should be required reading for all those fortunate enough to live to become octogenarians or beyond. It is filled with life affirming tales, sprinkled with a seasoning of wit, vibrancy, creativity and courage. L'chaim! To Life!

Pat Shapiro’s The Privilege of Aging-Portraits of Twelve Jewish Women explores what it is like to age with optimism. Ms. Shapiro brings to light a dozen Jewish women who have entered their elder years courageously, imaginatively, and with amazing insight. Taken together, the twelve life stories add new meaning to the term “golden years.” One doesn’t have to be over 75 or Jewish to appreciate and learn from this unique collection of interviews. If you are a senior citizen or are planning to be, this book is required reading. An inspiration!