David Von Drehle

A truly remarkable story about a man who lived through the majority of the 20th Century. Born in middle America, Charlie traveled to LA, attended Northwestern University, became a doctor, and served in the war. He was also married several times.
I found this story to be fascinating, esp. with all the unique things that Charlie did. Very enjoyable story about this remarkable man.
Lesson to all - speak to your elders and learn their story. They are fascinating!!! Cherish those that have gone before us and paved the way.… (mer)

When David Von Drehle moves into his new home in Kansas City, he encountrs a man across the street, dressed only in his swimming trunks, washing his girlfriend's car. The neighbor, Charlie White, was at the time 102. The author and Charlie sat down on numerous occasions and chatted about Charlie's long life (he eventually lived to 109). Von Drahle recognized characteristics in Charlie that produced an incredible resilience, and decided to write up Charlie's story, in part as a way of imparting some wisdom to his children.

This is not a biography or a memoir, but a retelling of incidents in Charlie's life, beginning with the death of his father when Charlie was 8, that formed the man. Von Drehle spend a bit of time fleshing out the circumstances of life in Kansas City (and beyond) that adds perspective to Charlie's story. The book is categorized as 'Self-Help', which is interesting, but not far off. Charlie did indeed live a remarkable life, and it was worth telling.

My own grandmother was born in 1900 and lived to 2001, so I tried to imagine what her life would have been like during this similar time span. There is so much to be gained from talks with the elderly - I'm glad Von Drehle thought to spend some time with Charlie.… (mer)