Customer Reviews

February Light: A Love Letter to the Seasons During a Year of Cancer and Recovery

5 star:		(29)
4 star:		(5)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(0)
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In this brief book, Heather Remoff shows herself to be a funny, gutsy, caring and sensitive woman. She also turns out to be one tough cookie. This memoir of her new life in a remote Pennsylvania village, and of the cancer that nearly ended that life, is well worth reading just for the skill of her writing. But even more, it is a fascinating self-portrait of a whole person, fully engaged in the serious and crazily unpredictable business of life.

What a beautiful book! I was less than half way through when I started thinking of friends to whom I would recommend it. It not only gives hope and inspiration to others facing dreaded diseases, but would remind any reader of the joy of being alive and appreciating the beauty of nature, and the importance of family and friends, in coping with life's difficult moments. While she describes with honesty the frustrations of dealing with those in the medical profession, she nevertheless is generous with her praise and understanding of their difficult choices in their efforts to help her combat this elusive disease. Far from being depressing, you find yourself laughing with her, crying with her , and rejoicing with her as she shares her love of life in her beloved Osprey Lakes which seems daily to nourish her soul. Her vivid descriptions transport you in a way that you actually feel you are there sharing it with her. It's a feel good book and I believe anyone would be enriched from reading it. I enjoyed it even more on the second reading, and have received many expressions of appreciation from those with whom I've shared it.

This is a marvelous memoir, offering much more than an account of a struggle with a serious illness. It is a joyful affirmation of life and mortality. I was mesmerized by the deft way in which Heather Remoff interweaves her observations about her natural surroundings and her inner physical struggle. Her ruminations are infused with wit and candor, giving her book a delightful readability. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone, not just those touched by cancer. It has much to offer those who have ever thought about their mortality, and maybe even more to those who haven't. I know that I will come back to this volume and its gifts again and again.

I read this wonderfully written and deeply felt book a few years ago, after my mother succumbed to biliary cancer and long before I triumphed over my own cancer (prostate). During my year of cancer and recovery, I often thought of Remoff's book -- a gem that created a resonance I still feel today -- of her resilience and love of life. Familiar with the setting, Eagle's Mere (a quaint, old Victorian village set atop a picturesque mountain, frequented by folks of means throughout much of the 20th century), I'd say she had ample opportunity to commune with the seasons. But the beauty of her love letter lies in its human light. We see an engaging, luminous spirit that will not yield to the dark, nefarious work of cancer, a woman deeply connected to family, friends and community. Her dog Chuckles, her running, her ruminations, her alternative healthcare approaches, her strong yet sensitive husband -- all give her reason to live. This book should be mandatory reading for anyone whose life has been affected by cancer. This book is life, fully lived, soulfully rendered, teeming with laughter and foolishness amid the fear and pain of facing one's inescapable mortality.

While facing a deadly disease, Heather Remoff shows wonderful insight, honesty, and humor. Also, the book is the perfect length and is very readable.

My wife and I have bought at least 2 dozen copies to give to children and friends. Heather Remoff describes her determined and courageous journey through the "valley of the shadow of death." Only someone with her spiritual connections and poetic insights could take us inside and share the love, perceptions and affirmation of life that she found on her journey. You will laugh and you will cry, and it all is true. A "must read."

February Light is the most beautiful book I've read in years. This memoir of Heather Trexler Remoff's year of contending with cancer is not a depressing book about illness or dying. It is a book about living richly in connection with community and the natural world. Remoff's philosophy of life goes well beyond the "glass half full" approach. She sees and describes the poetry and beauty of that fullness in a way that makes the empty half of the glass truly insignificant. Remoff's voice rings true and clear throughout this jewel of a book. You will laugh and cry and know that you are getting the real thing.

I cried when I read this story and yet, the joy in reading this wisdom will endure for generations to come. I feel so touched and want to share this gift with all who will listen. Women,can take comfort in knowing Heather has put their feelings into words. Life's legacy!

Heather Remoff is a remarkable observer--of nature, of her neighbors, and of herself as she encounters and overcomes cancer. This book captures the essence of a small town, its natural and social world, and Heather's ability to draw strength from both. This is a wonderful book and a wonderful read!

If you relish life, then you will relish "February Light", A delicious piece.