Book review: Love, Death & Other Scenes, Nova Weetman

Renowned Australian author of youth literature, Nova Weetman, has ventured into a new genre with her memoir Love, Death & Other Scenes. This heartfelt book delves into the themes of love and grief, inspired by Weetman's need to navigate the passing of her partner, Aidan Fennessy, after 25 years together, amid the challenges of the 2020 COVID lockdowns.

Crafted with the grace and structure of a theatrical production in three acts, the book brings readers along on Weetman's heartfelt exploration of her grief. Through intimate musings and sincere revelations, she bravely addresses her own feelings of sorrow and isolation with a remarkable level of openness, calmness, and inquisitiveness.

The beginning, middle parts, and ending of the book are written as a letter to her loved one, giving a small look into the deep emotions of experiencing loss. Every part is carefully created, skillfully weaving together Weetman’s story with Fennessy’s, showing how their lives were connected in a way that seemed destined. Her talent as a writer is making you feel like you're right there with her, going through the toughest moments of her life, causing your heart to ache repeatedly, but ultimately leaving you with a better understanding of how grief can change you.

In her writing, Weetman skillfully shows the harsh reality of losing a loved one and the deep effect cancer can have on the body. Her words are vivid, drawing readers into the personal details of Fennessy's sickness and the intense emotions that come with it. The story of his last moments is so moving that you'll need tissues. It's heartbreaking yet also beautifully depicted.

In her blog, Weetman explores deep topics about what happens after losing someone important. She ponders on how to share the news of a father's impending death with children and how to cope with constant reminders of loved ones. She also delves into how grief can change who we are. Each chapter of the blog pays homage to the author, highlighting aspects of him that she cherished but now must navigate without.

In the midst of sadness, Weetman includes happy and wise moments, recognizing the strength of people and the lasting importance of love. The book also delves into the journey of finding oneself and evolving.

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Touching, insightful, and profoundly emotional, Love, Death & Other Scenes showcases Weetman's talent for storytelling and her skill in portraying the shared feelings that connect us all. Her skill in depicting the intricacies of sorrow and love with such precision and empathy makes this a book that everyone who has faced loss or wants to comprehend its effects should read. It's a book that offers guidance on how to navigate life after a major loss, one that will linger in your thoughts even after you've finished reading.

Title: Love, Death & Beyond, by Nova Weetman Publisher: University of Queensland Press ISBN: 9780702268434 Type: Softcover Number of pages: 288 Cost: $34.99 Release date: April 3, 2024