Book Review: Every Note Played

After watching Still Alice again, I wanted to dive into another Lisa Genova book. I picked up Every Note Played. By the end of the book, tears streamed down my face. Watching the main character, a professional classical pianist, decline into ALS was excruciating. While many illnesses can strip an individual of their true self, the paralysis and challenges of ALS are extreme.

Richard Evans is accustomed to receiving standing ovations for his masterful skill and moving performances. At first, it feels like tendonitis, a common ailment among pianists. Then, his whole right arm becomes paralyzed. Deprived of the skill that provides his identity, Richard now faces memories of a marriage gone wrong and parenting missteps. His vows to never become like his own father (who belittled his preference for music over sports) have unfortunately manifested just as much damage because he chose music over his daughter.

Richard moves back in with his ex-wife, a true test of their sour relationship. Somehow, being stripped of the externals shines a deeper light on internals. Can they redeem what's broken? Will necessary apologies and forgiveness go unspoken? What does it look like to deteriorate slowly as ALS strips away abilities, life's simplest pleasures, and self-sufficiency? I loved the redemption at the end of this book. It was heart-wrenching, but a very important and life-affirming read.