Spoiler Alert

 Book 62 of my 2023 Reading Challenge

read from July 5 - 7

Spoiler Alert: The Hero Dies

by Michael Ausiello

Summary (via the book jacket)

Michael Ausiello thought he knew every story line in the world - after all, he had a successful career as one of the most respected reporters in the world of television. But no sitcom, drama, or soap opera could have prepared him for the story line his own life was about to take. His partner of thirteen years, Kit Cowan, was diagnosed with a rare and very aggressive form of neuroendocrine cancer, and although Kit and Michael did their best to combat the deadly disease for eleven months, Kit eventually succumbed.

In this moving and darkly hilarious memoir, Michael tells the story of his harrowing and challenging final year with Kit while revisiting the many memories that preceded it, and describes how their undeniably powerful bond carried them through all manner of difficulties - with humor always front and center in their relationship. From road trips to romantic getaways, from work-related junkets to anxiety-ridden doctors' visits, from spectacular collections of Smurf figurines to lots and lots of Diet Coke, Michael and Kit's story will make you cry with laughter while breaking your heart at the same time.

My Opinion

4 stars

This book came onto my radar after seeing a preview for the movie (but of course I have to read the book first!). The combination of memories and 'real-time' posts from that time was a good mix.  The author was very honest about their ups and downs; I appreciated it but as always, I spare a thought for the family (Kit's parents mostly in this case) that can hopefully choose to skip parts if they want to.

It's a dick move when dealing with such a heartfelt book but I do have to mention the few times 'you're' instead of 'your' was used (example: "you're chariot awaits, sir").  It was especially surprising since the author is a professional writer and editor.  But anyway, back to the feelings...

I was very sad that Kit had so much pain.  I don't think that's mentioned enough - when a person is already experiencing a shortening of life, it really really sucks when the quality of life they still have is affected by pain.  It's a combination of wanting to sleep and rest your body but also wanting to never sleep so you don't miss a thing.

I appreciate the author's honesty and authenticity and hope he has found happiness in the years since.