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Standing the Watch

R.J. Brown
Big River Press (2008)
ISBN 9780979874437
Reviewed by Kam Aures for RebeccasReads (5/09)

In “Standing the Watch: The Greatest Gift,” Rebecca Brown shares her memories of the home death of her father-in-law, Lincoln “Poppa” Brown.  Rebecca met her husband David after she returned from England to The Pacific Northwest.  At the beginning of their relationship, David had told Rebecca about how he had promised his father that he would “take care of him for the rest of his life, and to let him die at home.” (p.25)  Rebecca realized that not only was she gaining a husband, but she was also getting “another chance at having a father.” (p.26)  Her own father had passed away when she was still a child.

As the story unfolds, we watch as Lincoln’s health deteriorates and preparations for a home death begin.  The reader is then with Rebecca and family for the whole intimate, emotional process.  “Poppa” was a lucky man to have such a caring family.

Before reading “Standing the Watch: The Greatest Gift” I had never really heard much, if any, detail about home death, and I found Brown’s recollections to be fascinating reading.  Although quite emotional, the story was extremely heartwarming as well.  She pens her memories in a manner that will hold the reader’s unwavering attention from start to finish.

I believe that “Standing the Watch: The Greatest Gift” would be a beneficial read to anyone with aging parents who is concerned about what is to come, is considering a home death, or is undecided about what they are going to do.  Brown has written a powerful book that most certainly would be a great help to many people in aiding in their decision-making process.  Even if you aren’t even remotely close to having to prepare for the death of a family member, Brown’s story is still an interesting read and I highly recommend it! 

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