4.5 stars

Do you know the feeling your get when you read a book and know you’re going to remember it for the rest of your life? That’s how I feel about How To Save a Life. While the subject matter is emotional, the writing is beautiful and the story is magical. I am a sensitive reader and shy away from books I feel will be depressing. Let me assure you this is an uplifting read and one I encourage readers to consider.

I enjoy reading Kristin Harmel’s books as she does a wonderful job of taking life challenges and turning them into something positive and moving. How to Save a Life takes a pediatric oncology nurse who learns of her inoperable brain tumour. She learns from her young patients with terminal illnesses of their own about the magic of the tree in the hospital’s lobby which provides them with the ability to repeat the current day over and over.

The selflessness of this nurse facing her impending death is remarkable. She takes it upon herself to improve the last days of her terminal patients and begins examining all she would like to accomplish in her remaining days. There is clear messaging here about living in the moment and making every day count.

I listened to the audiobook version of this book which was narrated by Christina Sivrich. Her performance was excellent – I enjoyed the sweet and compassionate way she delivered each word. The audiobook was published recently, while the original novella was published in 2016. I would recommend the audiobook version of this book to those that enjoy this format.

I would like to add that on the day I am writing this (January 4) the author released on social media her own cancer diagnosis and need for chemotherapy. In addition to being a successful author, she is a co-host of the Youtube and Facebook live weekly production of Friends & Fiction. Please join me in wishing her a full and speedy recovery.