Truth and Beauty

This work of non-fiction by Ann Patchett is all about her friendship with author, Lucy Grealy. Lucy had childhood cancer, she survived but carried the residual effects of her illness to the end of her life. She required numerous surgeries to correct the disfiguration caused by radiation therapy. Her need for love and attention was a bottomless pit. She used sex and, eventually, drugs as a substitute for the love and acceptance she craved.

Ann and Lucy were roommates in grad school and maintained a strong friendship until Lucy's death. I wondered a bit about the kissing, carrying, bed and bath sharing. I'd feel uncomfortable with all this physical closeness but what do I know?

If I were ill, or even if I weren't, I'd want a friend like Ann. She seems sincere, accepting and filled with compassion, loyal to the end.

I liked this one and liked Patchett's novel Bel Canto as well.