Book Club Selection For April: Making the Rounds with Oscar

Our April 2011 book selection is Making the Rounds with Oscar by David Dosa, M.D. (225 pages) An otherwise ordinary cat, Oscar has the uncanny ability to sense when people are about to die. Adopted by staff members at Steere House nursing home when he was a kitten, the three-year old cat has presided over the deaths of more than twenty-five nursing home residents thus far. His mere presence at the bedside is viewed by physicians and nursing-home staff as an almost absolute indicator of impending death, considered a blessing because it allows time to notify families that the end is near and because he provides companionship to those who would otherwise have died alone. Dr. Dosa gives us Oscar’s story, using the cat and the stories of several patients to examine end-of life care as it exists today. Heartfelt, inspiring, and sometimes even funny, this book allows listeners into a world that is often misunderstood and rarely seen from the outside.

We have a wonderful group of members who enjoys reading and then coming together for a discussion usually held on the last Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m. What makes our discussions so interesting is that each of us looks at the reading through own lens and life experience enabling us to bring a unique viewpoint to the group.

We welcome anyone who would like to become a part of the discussion – even if it is just for that one book that piques your curiosity. Books chosen are available at the public library or you may purchase a copy on your own or through Sandra Hansen. We hope to see you there!