|
The Virtues of Aging (Library of Contemporary Thought) | 
 enlarge | Author: Jimmy Carter
Publisher: Ballantine Books
Category: Book
List Price: $12.95
Buy New: $10.36
You Save: $2.59 (20%)
New (60) Used (233) Collectible (9) from $0.01
Rating:  14 reviews
Sales Rank: 357472
Media: Paperback
Number Of Items: 1
Pages: 160
Shipping Weight (lbs): 0.3
Dimensions (in): 7.9 x 5.5 x 0.5
ISBN: 0345425928
Dewey Decimal Number: 305.26
EAN: 9780345425928
ASIN: 0345425928
Publication Date: October 13, 1998
Shipping: Eligible for Super Saver Shipping
Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours
|
| Also Available In:
|
| Accessories:
|
| Similar Items:
|
| Editorial Reviews:
Product Description
"We are not alone in our worry about both the physical aspect of aging and the prejudice that exists toward the elderly, which is similar to racism or sexism. What makes it different is that the prejudice also exists among those of us who are either within this group or rapidly approaching it. When I have mentioned the title of this book to a few people, most of them responded, 'Virtues? What could possibly be good about growing old?' The most obvious answer, of course, is to consider the alternative to aging. But there are plenty of other good answers--many based on our personal experiences and observations. "
--from THE VIRTUES OF AGING
Amazon.com Review
When Jimmy Carter left the White House in 1981, he and his wife, Rosalynn, had to face the same questions many elder Americans encounter when retirement approaches: "How could we accommodate the unpleasant circumstances that had been forced on us? What were our assets and abilities? What were the dependable factors in a good life, and how could we recognize and develop them? Was it at all possible for us to be as satisfied in the future as we had been during some of our most interesting, adventurous, and successful times? Did we have anything much to offer in the years ahead?" In the years since, both Carters have become internationally recognized for their work as authors, teachers, and humanitarians, but as Carter amiably insists in The Virtues of Aging, you don't need to be a former president (or first lady) to make a difference in your life and the lives of others. He urges older Americans to take charge of their lives--by staying active, whether it's through volunteerism or indulgence in personal recreation; by relying on oneself as much as possible; by getting involved with others; and by putting one's affairs in order with an honest self-awareness of the inevitability that even the richest, most rewarding life comes to a close. Like all the books in the Library of Contemporary Thought series, this is a fairly short tome, but it lives up to the best in the series--such as Pete Hamill's News Is a Verb or Seymour Hersh's Against All Enemies--by presenting readers with something to ponder on just about every page.
|
| Customer Reviews: Read 9 more reviews...
 How to enjoy being an old kokker April 3, 2006
11 out of 11 found this review helpful
Simple, plain, clear good advice enlived by personal example and story. This is a good book about aging wisely, retaining one's powers as best as one can through the senior years. Former President Carter involuntarily forced to retire at fifty- six faced a double - crisis , identity and financial. He almost lost the family land and farm, but was saved when his peanut holdings were bought by a large consortium. He and his wife Rosalyn became active in new ways, as university teachers, writers, volunteer builders of one home for a needy person each year.
The Carter recipe for enjoying old age involves remaining active, continuing to interact with others, exercising, avoiding the well- known evils of cigarettes and excess drinking.
Carter recognizes that not everyone has the prerogatives of a former President but he maintains that most of us have the resources to go on enjoying life in old age.
It seems to me Carter is a lot wiser in this work than he is in many of his political writings.
This is a good book and has valuable tips which should help towards graceful aging.
Another thought provoking book by Jimmy Carter February 26, 2006
9 out of 9 found this review helpful
THE VIRTUES OF AGING by Jimmy Carter
February 25, 2006
Amazon Rating: ****
In THE VIRTUES OF AGING, President Jimmy Carter writes about what a senior citizen can do to feel fulfilled and productive in ones last stage of life. As usual, he is quite candid as he writes about his own life, his marriage to Rosalyn, and recounts stories about his family and friends. I always enjoy reading Carter's non-fiction, as he always has some interesting anecdotes, as well as some wisdom-filled stories that he passes on to his readers. Carter never preaches, and I for one appreciate it. In fact, in this particular book he admits (at the end) that he tried to refrain from quoting much from the bible, as he felt it would detract from the topic. But since the church is a big part of his life, he did talk about his own participation with his church and did quote a few times in appropriate places as he discussed issues on aging.
I have to admit I'm rather biased because I have always admired the work Jimmy Carter has done since his presidency. Knowing about the good works he's done in the past few decades, I do not find it difficult at all to see that he's also left his mark in his writings. He's shared with the world what he has learned through his own past experiences as a son, a father, and grandfather, as well as Governor and President of the United States. I'm slowly collecting all of his books and so far have enjoyed what I have read. THE VIRTUES OF AGING was not as structured as some of his other books have been, but I don't think it was meant to be. It is a collection of thoughts and ramblings of aging gracefully, from his point of view.
 Perhaps he's aged too long December 10, 2005
9 out of 38 found this review helpful
Jimmy Carter used to be my favorite ex-president. Now, it seems he has aged beyond the point at which he can reason clearly. He goes on Larry King to criticize a former colleague (Zell Miller) for standing in support of the President, AND writes a book, for which he will probably make millions of dollars, to do more of the same. He is using his roles as elder statesman (well-deserved) and Nobel Laureate (well-deserved) to undermine our country; but seems to have forgotten that he was impotent while our hostages were held in Iran for 444 days. You know the saying: "them what can't do, teach". If one of the virtues of aging is exploitation of public opinion for your own advantage (or that of your party), Jimmy Carter is VERY virtuous.
Fabulous Book!! May 13, 2004
12 out of 12 found this review helpful
I'm in my mid-40's and found this book a facinating
look at older age. Carter busts the old stereotypes
about sitting in the rocking chair during retirement age and mentions numerous examples of friends and associates in the 70's and 80's who are living enormously productive lives. This book
gives me hope for the future. Even though my last 45 years were probably a little easier than my next 45 will, I find solace in the many examples of warm relationships maintained, hobbies developed and new challenges in later life. A whole-hearted endorsement for this book.Carter is my favorite former US President. The book also gave me a great curiousity to look at more information on the Carter Center and Habitat for Humanity. Jeffrey McAndrew
broadcaster and author of "Our Brown-Eyed Boy"1
Growing old gracefully March 30, 2003
19 out of 19 found this review helpful
"The Virtues of Aging," by former United States President Jimmy Carter, is a down-to-earth nonfiction book about growing old gracefully. Carter mixes interesting statistics with autobiographical information and practical advice.Carter discusses his work and experiences with a number of organizations, such as Habitat for Humanity. He also discusses the lives of people who made extraordinary accomplishments in their senior years. Carter doesn't shy away from sensitive topics, such as senior sexuality or preparing for one's own death. One admirable characteristic of Carter's writing is that while it is informed by his own Christian faith, he is also respectful of other belief traditions. Overall, he writes like an unpretentious friend who is sharing his life experience and perspective. Throughout the book, his wife Rosalynn is a constant presence; you get a real sense of the solidity of that relationship.
|
|
|
|
Powered by CBN AssociateStore
| |
