Are you looking for a few good books to read this summer? Lindley lists some engaging caregiver books for you to check out, followed by staff and volunteer picks to help you relax!

 

To Learn:

Cruising through Caregiving

By Jennifer L. FitzPatrick

Through her personal and professional experiences as a caregiver and gerontologist, Jennifer FitzPatrick has gained a wealth of knowledge about caregiving. In this informative book that addresses a wide variety of topics and issues, FitzPatrick offers an accessible guide to caring for loved ones while taking care of your own health, money, energy, and time. This book is practical, helpful, and encouraging.

 

Passages in Caregiving

By Gail Sheehy

Gail Sheehy experienced the ups and downs of caring for her husband during his long journey with cancer. In this powerful book, she shares wisdom from her own story as well as impressive research about how to navigate the often unfamiliar and overwhelming world of caregiving. This book addresses a wide variety of subjects, provides information about practical steps to take, and offers advice and encouragement in this helpful guide for caregivers from the initial diagnosis through the experience of saying goodbye.

 

Hope for the Caregiver: Encouraging Words to Strengthen Your Spirit

By Peter Rosenberger

Written by a longtime caregiver, this book includes devotionals, short articles, and tips that provide wonderful insights and ideas for caregivers. Often using stories and personal reflections, Peter Rosenberger addresses many challenging issues in ways that both acknowledge difficulty and encourage hope. This book is written from Rosenberger’s Christian perspective, though it is likely to resonate with people of various faith traditions.

 

Mama Peaches and Me: Wit and Wisdom for Worn-Out Caregivers

By Christopher-Charles Chaney

If you need a laugh, this book provides helpful, refreshing insights and information. Christopher-Charles Chaney is a caregiver and caregiving consultant who shares his reflections, practical advice, and encouraging words through his writing and speaking. This book provides resources, strategies, survival tips, and inspiration, and it keeps you laughing along the way.

 

Meditations for Caregivers: Practical, Emotional, and Spiritual Support for You and Your Family

By Barry J. Jacobs and Julia L. Mayer

This book, written by clinical psychologists, is designed to offer relief and renewal to caregivers who often feel overwhelmed and alone. Barry Jacobs and Julia Mayer address themes and topics through inspirational meditations, they normalize caregiving challenges by providing anecdotes and stories from real clients, and they offer experienced psychological advice. This book offers helpful insights into ways to experience and express love, empathy, and hope.

To Relax

Lisa’s pick – Seabiscuit

By Laura Hillenbrand

“Who would ever think a biography on a scrawny racehorse could be so mesmerizing. A quick, engaging read that will keep you good company in the hospital waiting room or on the beach!”

Anne’s pick – The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series

By Alexander McCall Smith.

“There a total of 18 books, and it’s best to read them in order.  They are definitely feel good reads about Precious Ramotswe, Botswana’s premier lady detective. ‘In this charming series, Mma Ramotswe—with help from her loyal associate, Grace Makutsi—navigates her cases and her personal life with wisdom, good humor, and the occasional cup of tea.'”

Lindley’s pick – The Happiness Project

By Gretchen Rubin

“This is a fun read about the author’s year of ‘test-driving the wisdom of the ages, current scientific research, and lessons from popular culture about how to be happier.’ It’s made me think about the often small things that can make a difference in our lives.”