James King (7) (1955–)

This review was first written for Author Exposure: http://www.authorexposure.com/2010/09/book-review-bill-warringtons-last.html

Bill Warrington’s Last Chance launches a believable tale that boldly transcends beyond the dysfunctional family and a “coming of age” venue by propelling an Alzheimer’s protagonist into a forceful melodrama of past, present and future with credible momentum and an ostensibly inevitable conclusion.

Marcy still clings to unresolved childhood memories despite her show more rigorous adherence to present conventional familial duties; this agitated adult daughter clearly rejects the perceptible decline of her elderly father Bill Warrington. Angered by the dismissive and complacent attitude of her fraternal siblings, Mike and Nick with whom haphazard communication remains a clichéd renewal of recurring arguments and failed efforts, she frantically clutches to her two vestiges of imagined success: motherhood and real estate agent. April, confused by the subliminal messages passing from her frenzied mother to her obstinate grandfather, utilizes that uncanny adolescent charm to her benefit by cajoling an unpredictable grandfather to teach her how to drive. If she could drive, her California fantasy could become reality, and she would shed this tedious claustrophobic life by becoming a songwriting/singer 15-year-old rising star.

And drive she does, in his ancient Impala as an unsuspecting co-conspirator in her grandfather’s intrepid scheme to initiate one final attempt to reunite his acrimonious family before his erratic memory completely fails him. “That’s what was happening. He wasn’t losing his memory; he was letting his memories have full rein, and, as a result, they simply took over sometimes.” (Page 147)

Follow the Warrington clan on their indomitable, heart-breaking, humorous path as they search for their wayward father with April in tow, and experience their anguish as they unwillingly explore disparate descriptions of past events. Mending flawed childhood memories requires fearless communication. This bewildering, topsy-turvy journey from a discordant past to reconciliation presents an astute parable for any one that still bears a latent animosity toward a parent or sibling; hope is abundant, but time is not. Lastly, James King challenges those who have or will face that “long good-bye” with a family member to reflect upon what truly is essential in enduring relationships.

As a care giver first to my mother, and now to my husband, not only could I relate to James King’s authentic depiction of the inevitable progression of Alzheimer’s, but also to the importance of a strong supportive sibling connection. My mother’s “long good-bye” lasted ten years, and I was most fortunate that my brother and my sister shared that remarkable journey with me. “She hoped that today, of all days, he wouldn’t be beyond her reach. She knew the day was coming when she’d never get him back.” (Page 284) show less

This poignant story is more about relationships than about anything actually happening, but does not really explore the depth of those relationships. It’s more about how the characters react to and against one another. Nobody really changes their essential character, but through the events of the story, they are able to be more accepting of one another’s flaws. I found the progression of Bill’s mental deterioration most interesting, experienced firsthand from his POV, and secondhand show more through his granddaughter’s POV.



Audiobook version. Joe Barrett’s performance is excellent. show less

This was a very powerful book about family relationships. Each character is flawed in their own unique manner that showcases their unique individuality. Also you get a real sense at the same time that the characters are indeed from the same family and that they each responded to their childhood in a different manner. This brought a truth to the story that is lacking in a lot of fiction these days. King was able to mix into this story a true sense of the human experience as well.

The book show more focuses primarily on the relationship between April and Bill, granddaughter and grandfather, and their adventure no the road, but it is so much more than this. It is a story of growing up, growing old, and learning to love each member of your family.

This book is an emotional read throughout. There are times where you want to strangle characters for being so idiotic or just being evil, but then later on you understand why they feel the way they do. You embrace the characters even though they are flawed. This makes for a great read to feel connected so much to the characters.

I will state there are moments where you want to put the book down for a bit because the moments are so vivid and real. If you have had any real experiences with your own family King's book will bring them back to your mind. This is not a book you will finish in one setting because of this, but it is a book you definitely need to complete. You will appreciate life in a different manner after doing so. show less

The premise of Bill Warrington's Last Chance held such promise, but for this reader, it didn't deliver. An engaging idea of an elderly grandfather, suffering from dementia or Alzheimer's Disease, who "kidnaps" his 15 year old granddaughter with the hope of reuniting his estranged family fell flat. The characters were simply not likable and I didn't like them any better at the end of the book than I did at the beginning. It is a quick read, but not memorable.