If you are looking for a book to warm your heart, pick up The Red Address Book by Sofia Lundberg. This novel revolves around 96-year-old Doris who is now physically fragile but who has nearly a century's worth of memories. Doris looks over the names in her red address book given to her by her father and begins to write her memories down for her grandniece Jenny to read.
These memories cover the beginning of her life in Stockholm, her days as a model in Paris in the 1930s, her time in New York City and England, and so many adventures! As she looks over the names in her address book, so many crossed out with DEAD written by them, Doris recalls good times and bad times. She worked as a maid in Sweden, posed as a living mannequin in Paris, fled to Manhattan at the beginning of World War II, spent time hidden in an attic, and met the love of her life. But whatever became of him?
Doris, who has returned to Sweden, wants to share the stories of her life with Jenny who lives in the United States with her husband and children. When Jenny finds out that Doris is near the end of her life, she journeys to Sweden to be by her side. Once there, she not only remembers Doris as a loving influence, but she also realizes how lucky she is to have her own family. Jenny's husband comes through when she tasks him with a very special endeavor--one that will make Doris's last hours be some of her best.
This novel reminds us that we should share our stories with the next generation. It also reminds us that life is full of ups and downs. And that life can be full of surprises even until its very end. A charming read.