Widowish by Melissa Gould

My idea of a beach read is not exactly in line with most people’s idea of a good book to read on vacation. My dream book is one that I can read in one or two days, and one that grips ahold of me, does not let go, and in some way opens my eyes, or changes my life forever. This is not a small job for a book, I understand. But my close friends know what I like, so when Page suggested I stop everything and read “Widowish” by Melissa Gould, I knew immediately that I should take it to our getaway at the Russian River. “Widowish” is the true story of how Melissa, a talented television writer whose credits include “Beverly Hills, 90201,” “Party of Five,” and “Lizzie McGuire,” became a widow in her 40’s. A few years into their marriage, Melissa and her husband Joel had a young daughter, and shortly after he was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. At first the diagnosis seemed not to be the end of the world, but just a new situation to manage. Joel, a recreational athlete, often became frustrated with his loss of arm and leg coordination, but again this diagnosis did not seem fatal. They were a family, they loved each other and they both had fulfilling careers. There was hope and positivity until, on a family vacation in Mexico, Joel came home not feeling well and was quickly hospitalized. When his situation grew grave, Melissa had to convince her own parents, and Joel’s parents, to support her decision to take Joel off life support. He was not dying from MS, but rather from a virus he contracted in Mexico or Los Angeles. After, Joel’s death at age 50, Melissa is left to raiser their daughter alone, and figure out how to wear the label of  “young widow” without falling apart. She embarks on a journey of grief, sadness, love and healing that is beautifully written. She does not have all the answers, she is heartbroken over the death of her husband, but she knows she must find a way to uncover joy again, not only for herself but also for their daughter. “Widowish” might not be on every beach chair this summer, but I hope it finds a place under a few umbrellas. It offers a testament to how one can survive loss, rebound and recover at a young age. To buy this book on Amazon click here.