Oh to Be Fifty Again!

LeShan's central thesisthat old age is neither a heaven nor a hell but that the individual can live it with styleis hardly original, but the understanding with which she presents suggestions on coping with its vicissitudes makes this book worth reading. In her 18th volume, family counselor and columnist LeShan opines that flexibility is the name of the game and that those over 60 who keep growing will have the best senior citizenship. She interviewed many older people and presents consensus thinking on physical changes, particularly the ability to accept limitations; preparations for retirement and what to do when it arrives; making adjustments in all family relationships; widowhood and approaching death. Anyone past middle age will enjoy it. The book is printed in large type for easy reading. First serial to Woman's Day. (September 25)