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Left on Tenth: A Second Chance at Life
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Best Memoir & Autobiography (2022)The bestselling, beloved writer of romantic comedies like You've Got Mail tells her own late-in-life love story, complete with a tragic second act and joyous resolution.
Delia Ephron had struggled through several years of heartbreak. She’d lost her sister, Nora, and then her husband, Jerry, both to cancer. Several months after Jerry’s death, she decided to make one small change in her life—she shut down his landline, which crashed her internet. She ended up in Verizon hell.
She channeled her grief the best way she knew: by writing a New York Times op-ed. The piece caught the attention of Peter, a Bay Area psychiatrist, who emailed her to commiserate. Recently widowed himself, he reminded her that they had shared a few dates fifty-four years before, set up by Nora. Delia did not remember him, but after several weeks of exchanging emails and sixties folk songs, he flew east to see her. They were crazy, utterly, in love.
But this was not a rom-com: four months later she was diagnosed with AML, a fierce leukemia.
In Left on Tenth, Delia Ephron enchants as she seesaws us between tears and laughter, navigating the suicidal lows of enduring cutting-edge treatment and the giddy highs of a second chance at love. With Peter and her close girlfriends by her side, with startling clarity, warmth, and honesty about facing death, Ephron invites us to join her team of warriors and become believers ourselves.
Delia Ephron had struggled through several years of heartbreak. She’d lost her sister, Nora, and then her husband, Jerry, both to cancer. Several months after Jerry’s death, she decided to make one small change in her life—she shut down his landline, which crashed her internet. She ended up in Verizon hell.
She channeled her grief the best way she knew: by writing a New York Times op-ed. The piece caught the attention of Peter, a Bay Area psychiatrist, who emailed her to commiserate. Recently widowed himself, he reminded her that they had shared a few dates fifty-four years before, set up by Nora. Delia did not remember him, but after several weeks of exchanging emails and sixties folk songs, he flew east to see her. They were crazy, utterly, in love.
But this was not a rom-com: four months later she was diagnosed with AML, a fierce leukemia.
In Left on Tenth, Delia Ephron enchants as she seesaws us between tears and laughter, navigating the suicidal lows of enduring cutting-edge treatment and the giddy highs of a second chance at love. With Peter and her close girlfriends by her side, with startling clarity, warmth, and honesty about facing death, Ephron invites us to join her team of warriors and become believers ourselves.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published April 12, 2022
About the author
Delia Ephron
21 books542 followersBestselling author and screenwriter Delia Ephron's most recent novel is Siracusa. Her other novels include The Lion Is In and Hanging Up. She has written humor books for all ages, including How to Eat Like a Child and Do I Have to Say Hello?; and nonfiction, most recently Sister Mother Husband Dog (etc.). Her films include You’ve Got Mail, The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, Hanging Up (based on her novel), and Michael. Her journalism has appeared in The New York Times, O: The Oprah Magazine, Vogue, and Vanity Fair. Her hit play Love, Loss, and What I Wore (co-written with Nora Ephron) ran for more than two years off-Broadway and has been performed all over the world. She lives in New York City.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,179 reviews
February 4, 2022
I am just a few years younger than Delia Efron was at the start of her memoir. I also have a husband 22 years older than me, so I may be dealing with the loss of a husband within years rather than decades. I also lost my father last year. I even went through a similar situation trying to disconnect his landline with Verizon. (She was lucky, my situation took four months to resolve. I didn’t have the advantage of having written an Op-Ed for the NYT.). And we shared the loss of a beloved dog. So, obviously her memoir reverberated with me.
Efron writes in a very relatable style. It felt like she considered her readers as her friends. It made me wish I was a friend, her correspondence was lovely. (And thank heavens she was smart enough to save so much of it.). I cheered her good news and lamented with her over the bad. I found it heartwarming that she found love at the age of 71.
But don’t get me wrong, at times the memoir is very dark. I’m so glad I read this after a friend of mine went through a bone marrow replacement. I would have been a nervous wreck thinking of all the complications that she could have had.
Efron’s story is a reminder to enjoy life and never take it for granted. It’s a reminder that there are some truly wonderful people in this world, like her doctors and donors. Not to mention her lovely Peter.
My thanks to Netgalley and Little, Brown for an advance copy of this book.
Efron writes in a very relatable style. It felt like she considered her readers as her friends. It made me wish I was a friend, her correspondence was lovely. (And thank heavens she was smart enough to save so much of it.). I cheered her good news and lamented with her over the bad. I found it heartwarming that she found love at the age of 71.
But don’t get me wrong, at times the memoir is very dark. I’m so glad I read this after a friend of mine went through a bone marrow replacement. I would have been a nervous wreck thinking of all the complications that she could have had.
Efron’s story is a reminder to enjoy life and never take it for granted. It’s a reminder that there are some truly wonderful people in this world, like her doctors and donors. Not to mention her lovely Peter.
My thanks to Netgalley and Little, Brown for an advance copy of this book.
May 22, 2022
A rollercoaster of a memoir
I was in love with Nora Ephron and was crushed when she died of leukemia in 2012. A comic genius, she was. I had laughed myself silly with her I Feel Bad About My Neck: And Other Thoughts on Being a Woman, and I loved her movies, especially Sleepless in Seattle. It didn’t hurt that she was a New Yorker, which I secretly wish I was. I have her phrase, “everything is copy,” walking around in my head; it’s pretty much a mantra. It keeps me on my toes and keeps me listening hard and looking closely.
But what? She had a sister! Turns out Delia Ephron is a writer, too, with movies like You’ve Got Mail on her resume. I read two books by her—her collection of essays called Sister Mother Husband Dog: Etc., and a novel, Siracusa. Loved both to death. I would say she’s one hell of a funny writer, too—like sister, like sister.
So it was a no brainer when I saw she had a new book coming out. I requested it, no questions asked. I assumed it would be another cheerful and witty collection of essays. Wrong. This is an intense little memoir, about three events in her life: her beloved husband’s death from prostate cancer, her discovery of love in her 70s (telling us that yes, old people do still kiss, LOL), and then a devastating diagnosis of the same leukemia that killed her sister Nora.
What a rollercoaster this book was. Here was my trip trajectory: Sad, happy, horrified, hopeful. (Yeah, it’s a good thing it ended on the upbeat.) Delia met her new love all because she had a Verizon experience from hell right after her husband died. (We’ve all had that kind of phone madness, so instant sympathy for her there!) She ended up writing a piece about it, and damn if this guy didn’t read it, track her down, and woo her online. Turns out she had actually gone out with him moons ago. Her descriptions of their budding romance and marriage were delicious, and I could have stayed in that story forever. But that wasn’t to be—when she was diagnosed with leukemia, her life changed forever and so did this memoir.
The leukemia story takes up most of the book, and it is grueling. Delia makes you feel like you’re right there in the hospital room with her. I was a fly on the wall, observing it all and groaning in agony with her. Man, did she have a terrible time of it; it was all so intense and horrifying. It felt like a friend was telling me her experience—Delia describes all the emotions she’s going through while keeping to the medical facts, too. I found the medical part fascinating. Oh, and she talks about the love of her new husband and all her friends, who rallied by her side. Group hug. Her new husband was just amazing, the calm voice and constant cheerleader. It didn’t hurt that he was a doctor—he could talk doctor-speak and get the real scoop.
At one point, she begged her husband to let her die. He wouldn’t hear of it (not that he could have made that happen anyway). It made me think. Not long ago, I read The Living Sea of Waking Dreams, which was about a dying woman whose kids disregarded her wish to die. I was shaken when I saw that Delia’s wishes were dismissed—shouldn’t she be allowed to check out if she wanted to? She was suffering so much—it was hard to read about. I felt that he should let her go; maybe figure out how to help her die. But look! She returned to a good life! So he was right to not listen to her! And I was wrong to think he should have!
The leukemia story was so devastating that I felt like she wouldn’t make it; I had to keep reminding myself that she lived to tell the story, so chillax. Chilling out was not easy, however. I have someone very close to me with terminal cancer and she is going through the wringer. Some of the medical details are similar. It was scary to be reading about the details of death lurking around the corner, but it was also cathartic and familiar. I’m sure I related to Delia’s story even more because I’m the same age as her.
The blurbs say the book is funny. Seriously, given the subject matter, there ain’t much funny here. Oh, very occasionally, especially during the romance section, Delia gave me a chuckle or two. One line tickled me: “Women don’t care about weather, they only care about what the weather will do to their hair.”
And she did have some pieces of wisdom. One of her comments was actually epiphany material for me; she said something about herself that applied to my life, too. That was pure gold! Another relatable thing: when she lost her beloved dog, she said, “I miss all the love, action, and conversation she brought to my life.” I lost my wonderful cat, Bobo, a couple of months ago, and her comment brought tears to my eyes. She also mentioned how if you get a pet and you’re old, you have to think about who will take your pet if it outlives you. So true, so sad. You just don’t think about such things if you’re a young pet owner. Getting old sucks.
Delia included emails from friends who were constantly checking on her and sending love. If I had any complaints about the book, I’d say that the emails added nothing—they were just basic greetings that you’d expect to arrive in her mailbox. Oh, such a minor complaint! I’m guessing that by including the emails she was giving extra thanks to all of her friends, and that’s a nice gesture.
I debated whether to include so many details about the book in this review, but I decided that spoilers aren’t an issue here. I want readers to know how dark it is (in case, like me, they think they are about to read something funny), but also that it is hopeful in the end.
Delia is an amazing writer; her story is so well told. I want to be her buddy, just like I wanted to be Nora’s. I do feel like I want to bug her monthly and see if she’s still doing okay, but I don’t want to be a stalker, lol. Throughout her story, I was on the edge of my seat, hoping she’d be alright, and rooting for her all the way. Just so glad she could share her heartfelt story with us.
Thanks to NetGalley for the advance copy.
Publication Date: April 12, 2022
I was in love with Nora Ephron and was crushed when she died of leukemia in 2012. A comic genius, she was. I had laughed myself silly with her I Feel Bad About My Neck: And Other Thoughts on Being a Woman, and I loved her movies, especially Sleepless in Seattle. It didn’t hurt that she was a New Yorker, which I secretly wish I was. I have her phrase, “everything is copy,” walking around in my head; it’s pretty much a mantra. It keeps me on my toes and keeps me listening hard and looking closely.
But what? She had a sister! Turns out Delia Ephron is a writer, too, with movies like You’ve Got Mail on her resume. I read two books by her—her collection of essays called Sister Mother Husband Dog: Etc., and a novel, Siracusa. Loved both to death. I would say she’s one hell of a funny writer, too—like sister, like sister.
So it was a no brainer when I saw she had a new book coming out. I requested it, no questions asked. I assumed it would be another cheerful and witty collection of essays. Wrong. This is an intense little memoir, about three events in her life: her beloved husband’s death from prostate cancer, her discovery of love in her 70s (telling us that yes, old people do still kiss, LOL), and then a devastating diagnosis of the same leukemia that killed her sister Nora.
What a rollercoaster this book was. Here was my trip trajectory: Sad, happy, horrified, hopeful. (Yeah, it’s a good thing it ended on the upbeat.) Delia met her new love all because she had a Verizon experience from hell right after her husband died. (We’ve all had that kind of phone madness, so instant sympathy for her there!) She ended up writing a piece about it, and damn if this guy didn’t read it, track her down, and woo her online. Turns out she had actually gone out with him moons ago. Her descriptions of their budding romance and marriage were delicious, and I could have stayed in that story forever. But that wasn’t to be—when she was diagnosed with leukemia, her life changed forever and so did this memoir.
The leukemia story takes up most of the book, and it is grueling. Delia makes you feel like you’re right there in the hospital room with her. I was a fly on the wall, observing it all and groaning in agony with her. Man, did she have a terrible time of it; it was all so intense and horrifying. It felt like a friend was telling me her experience—Delia describes all the emotions she’s going through while keeping to the medical facts, too. I found the medical part fascinating. Oh, and she talks about the love of her new husband and all her friends, who rallied by her side. Group hug. Her new husband was just amazing, the calm voice and constant cheerleader. It didn’t hurt that he was a doctor—he could talk doctor-speak and get the real scoop.
At one point, she begged her husband to let her die. He wouldn’t hear of it (not that he could have made that happen anyway). It made me think. Not long ago, I read The Living Sea of Waking Dreams, which was about a dying woman whose kids disregarded her wish to die. I was shaken when I saw that Delia’s wishes were dismissed—shouldn’t she be allowed to check out if she wanted to? She was suffering so much—it was hard to read about. I felt that he should let her go; maybe figure out how to help her die. But look! She returned to a good life! So he was right to not listen to her! And I was wrong to think he should have!
The leukemia story was so devastating that I felt like she wouldn’t make it; I had to keep reminding myself that she lived to tell the story, so chillax. Chilling out was not easy, however. I have someone very close to me with terminal cancer and she is going through the wringer. Some of the medical details are similar. It was scary to be reading about the details of death lurking around the corner, but it was also cathartic and familiar. I’m sure I related to Delia’s story even more because I’m the same age as her.
The blurbs say the book is funny. Seriously, given the subject matter, there ain’t much funny here. Oh, very occasionally, especially during the romance section, Delia gave me a chuckle or two. One line tickled me: “Women don’t care about weather, they only care about what the weather will do to their hair.”
And she did have some pieces of wisdom. One of her comments was actually epiphany material for me; she said something about herself that applied to my life, too. That was pure gold! Another relatable thing: when she lost her beloved dog, she said, “I miss all the love, action, and conversation she brought to my life.” I lost my wonderful cat, Bobo, a couple of months ago, and her comment brought tears to my eyes. She also mentioned how if you get a pet and you’re old, you have to think about who will take your pet if it outlives you. So true, so sad. You just don’t think about such things if you’re a young pet owner. Getting old sucks.
Delia included emails from friends who were constantly checking on her and sending love. If I had any complaints about the book, I’d say that the emails added nothing—they were just basic greetings that you’d expect to arrive in her mailbox. Oh, such a minor complaint! I’m guessing that by including the emails she was giving extra thanks to all of her friends, and that’s a nice gesture.
I debated whether to include so many details about the book in this review, but I decided that spoilers aren’t an issue here. I want readers to know how dark it is (in case, like me, they think they are about to read something funny), but also that it is hopeful in the end.
Delia is an amazing writer; her story is so well told. I want to be her buddy, just like I wanted to be Nora’s. I do feel like I want to bug her monthly and see if she’s still doing okay, but I don’t want to be a stalker, lol. Throughout her story, I was on the edge of my seat, hoping she’d be alright, and rooting for her all the way. Just so glad she could share her heartfelt story with us.
Thanks to NetGalley for the advance copy.
Publication Date: April 12, 2022
May 11, 2022
Audiobook….read by Delia Ephron
…..7 hours and 39 minutes
In Atul Gawande’s book “Being Moral”, he wrote:
“One has to decide whether one’s fears or one’s hopes are what should matter most”.
Delia said….
“I have to protect my health”..
She also said…over and over as a mantra (wise words from her doctor)
“Fear leukemia, not the treatment”
I loved listening to the audiobook. I had a few doubts at the beginning for three reasons:
1.The first review I read from a reader gave it 3 stars - with so-so-average-enthusiasm.
2.It took me about thirty minutes to warm to Delia’s language styling.
3.And….selfishly-I was missing Nora Ephron….noticing I was having judgmental thoughts….
But then…..
Suddenly like a strong earthquake….Delia shook the foundation from all my doubts. ……
All doors flew open…and all my skepticism-chains came loose.
“Left on Tenth” is beautifully written….
frank & honest, medically informative, courageous, moving, relatable, scary & sad, happy & inspiring and it helps us work through things that are important to us — health, happiness, love,
love late in life, joy, ‘a few golden box great moments’, adventures, the enjoyment of food, a cappuccino, watching tennis on TV, art, music, The metropolitan opera house, writing, reading, ping pong, lots and lots of wonderful conversations….
—reflecting on what makes life worth living — discussion-projects — substantial meaningfulness!!!
Delia brilliantly paints-the-full rainbow of the highs and lows of her life….
Aware that much of her life had an easy flowing rhythm (feeling privileged), … she loves passionately - takes her friendships serious( boy I relate to this), was blessed to find love twice in her life: two phenomenal husbands—
She also had her full share painful hardships - loss, loss, and more loss….sickness, remission- more sickness - grueling medical procedures to endure—
When dying sounds better than living — when depression is overwhelming—when taking one more damn pill seems unbearable—
when life limitations feels like living in a twilight world—-
Sometimes….
….light begins to brighten very deep darkness…
Strength begins to return…slowly healing..
We find ourselves- once again deeply valuing our friendships, valuing simple things in our daily life, connections, conversations, freedoms, support, passions & personal interests, …..
In the end — hell ‘before’ the end….
I came to really like Delia. I’d love to be ‘girlfriends’ with her….
She is funny, warm, snooty-at-times in a very authentic endearing way…
She lives with old demons that haunt her from childhood— she knows she gravitates towards worry and fear….(but hot damn if she isn’t honest about it)….
Her husband Peter, a therapist, is a gem of a human being ….
Many — many touching moments…..
I loved it when Delia asked a neighbor not only to help her —with hospital and personal needs….
but Delia said…..”I need you to love me”…..
It was a powerful - transforming exchange between two ordinary/extraordinary women/neighbors.
Life —
with death near by -
does something to people….
This memoir feeds us oxygen…..it’s soooo human.
Note: For me ….this type of memoir keeps me walking for hours….
Thank you, Delia….
…..for sharing yourself ….your disease….your great luck….your great love …sharing your friendships, family members, medical team, your quirks, your funny bone, your hardships…. your good fortunes…your bigger-than-life grateful heart….
-and sharing your miraculous stories…..
You were a gift for me. Thank you.
…..7 hours and 39 minutes
In Atul Gawande’s book “Being Moral”, he wrote:
“One has to decide whether one’s fears or one’s hopes are what should matter most”.
Delia said….
“I have to protect my health”..
She also said…over and over as a mantra (wise words from her doctor)
“Fear leukemia, not the treatment”
I loved listening to the audiobook. I had a few doubts at the beginning for three reasons:
1.The first review I read from a reader gave it 3 stars - with so-so-average-enthusiasm.
2.It took me about thirty minutes to warm to Delia’s language styling.
3.And….selfishly-I was missing Nora Ephron….noticing I was having judgmental thoughts….
But then…..
Suddenly like a strong earthquake….Delia shook the foundation from all my doubts. ……
All doors flew open…and all my skepticism-chains came loose.
“Left on Tenth” is beautifully written….
frank & honest, medically informative, courageous, moving, relatable, scary & sad, happy & inspiring and it helps us work through things that are important to us — health, happiness, love,
love late in life, joy, ‘a few golden box great moments’, adventures, the enjoyment of food, a cappuccino, watching tennis on TV, art, music, The metropolitan opera house, writing, reading, ping pong, lots and lots of wonderful conversations….
—reflecting on what makes life worth living — discussion-projects — substantial meaningfulness!!!
Delia brilliantly paints-the-full rainbow of the highs and lows of her life….
Aware that much of her life had an easy flowing rhythm (feeling privileged), … she loves passionately - takes her friendships serious( boy I relate to this), was blessed to find love twice in her life: two phenomenal husbands—
She also had her full share painful hardships - loss, loss, and more loss….sickness, remission- more sickness - grueling medical procedures to endure—
When dying sounds better than living — when depression is overwhelming—when taking one more damn pill seems unbearable—
when life limitations feels like living in a twilight world—-
Sometimes….
….light begins to brighten very deep darkness…
Strength begins to return…slowly healing..
We find ourselves- once again deeply valuing our friendships, valuing simple things in our daily life, connections, conversations, freedoms, support, passions & personal interests, …..
In the end — hell ‘before’ the end….
I came to really like Delia. I’d love to be ‘girlfriends’ with her….
She is funny, warm, snooty-at-times in a very authentic endearing way…
She lives with old demons that haunt her from childhood— she knows she gravitates towards worry and fear….(but hot damn if she isn’t honest about it)….
Her husband Peter, a therapist, is a gem of a human being ….
Many — many touching moments…..
I loved it when Delia asked a neighbor not only to help her —with hospital and personal needs….
but Delia said…..”I need you to love me”…..
It was a powerful - transforming exchange between two ordinary/extraordinary women/neighbors.
Life —
with death near by -
does something to people….
This memoir feeds us oxygen…..it’s soooo human.
Note: For me ….this type of memoir keeps me walking for hours….
Thank you, Delia….
…..for sharing yourself ….your disease….your great luck….your great love …sharing your friendships, family members, medical team, your quirks, your funny bone, your hardships…. your good fortunes…your bigger-than-life grateful heart….
-and sharing your miraculous stories…..
You were a gift for me. Thank you.
July 25, 2022
She lost her sister and her husband in short order, but then unexpectedly at the age of 72, she is given a second chance at love. It is an article she wrote lambasting Verizon after a frustrating and aggravating contretemps she had with them, that brings her this chance. The man, who will become her husband, also lost his wife, was wonderful. Then fate strikes and the genetic based cancer that killed her sister comes for her. What follows is a herculean struggle for her life.
Every once in a while, one picks up a book that hits one hard. Is so incredibly relatable that it's uncanny. You see two in a half years ago, shortly after the new year, I contracted RSV and because of my severe asthma, it landed me in the hospital. That night, though I don't remember this, I was placed on a ventilator and put in a medically induced coma. My family was told that I had a fifty, fifty chance of survival. Well obviously I survived but like Delia, I spent months in physical therapy. Never as extensive nor as serious as what she went through but so many of her thoughts, as related in this book, were thoughts I shared. Also in her book she says, "Trauma is so isolating" which it is, but also, feeling half way normal again, I entered the world of Covid as she did.
Her honesty, her ability as an author to bring her struggles to life, touched me. I thank her for sharing her story, because I'm sure like myself she has touched many.
Every once in a while, one picks up a book that hits one hard. Is so incredibly relatable that it's uncanny. You see two in a half years ago, shortly after the new year, I contracted RSV and because of my severe asthma, it landed me in the hospital. That night, though I don't remember this, I was placed on a ventilator and put in a medically induced coma. My family was told that I had a fifty, fifty chance of survival. Well obviously I survived but like Delia, I spent months in physical therapy. Never as extensive nor as serious as what she went through but so many of her thoughts, as related in this book, were thoughts I shared. Also in her book she says, "Trauma is so isolating" which it is, but also, feeling half way normal again, I entered the world of Covid as she did.
Her honesty, her ability as an author to bring her struggles to life, touched me. I thank her for sharing her story, because I'm sure like myself she has touched many.
May 8, 2022
Another 3.5 for me.
I generally enjoy reading memoirs; always hoping to learn. Sadly, this one just didn't grab me.
I must admit that far too many times, I felt like the author was name dropping.
Her lifestyle is far from mine - I've never had a "blow out" in my life.
When I have been ill, I received no extra amenities.
I am not callous enough to say that I envy Delia Ephron these. I would never do that.
It just detracted from her tale for me.
I generally enjoy reading memoirs; always hoping to learn. Sadly, this one just didn't grab me.
I must admit that far too many times, I felt like the author was name dropping.
Her lifestyle is far from mine - I've never had a "blow out" in my life.
When I have been ill, I received no extra amenities.
I am not callous enough to say that I envy Delia Ephron these. I would never do that.
It just detracted from her tale for me.
July 3, 2022
Ephron suffered the difficult death of her sister and her husband and details her own horrifying illness in this memoir. This is not the romantic, funny book with a touch of tragedy that some of the blurbs describe. However, it is a wonderful memoir about survival and hope and finding love. And because we know it will have a happy ending (she's writing a memoir!) the pain is bearable - and totally worth it.
April 12, 2022
Pub Day!
Like almost everyone I know, Nora and Delia Ephron were the dynamic duo, those super talented sisters who we all loved. The two that gave us our most favorite movies and laughable books.
We were crushed when Nora got sick and passed away in what seemed like a blink of an eye. Hearing about this book by Delia and her experience with leukemia was not something I was anxious to read.
I felt as if I knew these women personally, even exchanged emails with Delia way back when her first book was published. But I knew she was just being polite and friendly to a fan. ( That’s ok!)
I just didn’t want to read about her illness!
But, Delia is a writer and survivor! She still has her sense of humor intact. I’m thrilled that she’s healthy again and we’d to an incredible man. She’s happy.
This book is a testament to life and no one could write it like Delia.
Thank you Edelweiss and Little Brown, and Co. and especially to Delia Ephron.
Like almost everyone I know, Nora and Delia Ephron were the dynamic duo, those super talented sisters who we all loved. The two that gave us our most favorite movies and laughable books.
We were crushed when Nora got sick and passed away in what seemed like a blink of an eye. Hearing about this book by Delia and her experience with leukemia was not something I was anxious to read.
I felt as if I knew these women personally, even exchanged emails with Delia way back when her first book was published. But I knew she was just being polite and friendly to a fan. ( That’s ok!)
I just didn’t want to read about her illness!
But, Delia is a writer and survivor! She still has her sense of humor intact. I’m thrilled that she’s healthy again and we’d to an incredible man. She’s happy.
This book is a testament to life and no one could write it like Delia.
Thank you Edelweiss and Little Brown, and Co. and especially to Delia Ephron.
April 18, 2022
Based on recent reviews, I was looking forward to this memoir. I knew the basics of Ms. Ephron's memoir: based upon a piece that she wrote for the NYT, she improbably finds love after being widowed, then learns that she has leukemia.
I became increasingly annoyed with Ms. Ephron's self-absorption (she repeatedly mentions her blow outs and her outfits), her smug entitlement (she is able to afford to stay in the VIP wing of her hospital for some time, she travels often, her housekeeper, etc.). Not sure what Peter saw in her, but she apparently is very wealthy, so there is that. Ms. Ephron is not only privileged and shallow, but she is a mediocre writer.
Yes, going through a stem cell transplant is an arduous process, but there are much better medical memoirs out there (Paul Kalanithi's When Breath Becomes Air is one example).
I became increasingly annoyed with Ms. Ephron's self-absorption (she repeatedly mentions her blow outs and her outfits), her smug entitlement (she is able to afford to stay in the VIP wing of her hospital for some time, she travels often, her housekeeper, etc.). Not sure what Peter saw in her, but she apparently is very wealthy, so there is that. Ms. Ephron is not only privileged and shallow, but she is a mediocre writer.
Yes, going through a stem cell transplant is an arduous process, but there are much better medical memoirs out there (Paul Kalanithi's When Breath Becomes Air is one example).
May 10, 2022
I really wanted to LOVE this as I do love the Ephron sisters, but I found it rather navel-gazey as well as pretty wildly self-involved. Plus many parts of it were just verbatim email exchanges between lovers, which is ok and all, but I don't consider that HIGH ART, I consider that emails. (It can be high art, but it wasn't here). I still skim-read to the end to see if I could come around and/or if there would be some way that it was redeemed in my opinion, but I still felt a little meh about it, overall.
December 13, 2021
Delia, sister of Nora Ephron who died of leukemia, learns that she, too, has the disease. (Preceding her diagnosis, she loses her husband Jerry, and after awhile she finds love again at 70+ with the wonderful Peter.) The treatment appears to be working, until it isn't, and she has to decide whether to endure the agony of a bone marrow transplant, which is often contraindicated for people of her age. In addition to Peter's amazing devotion, she has the love of many caring friends to help her through her ordeals. Thanks to the publisher and Edelweiss for the ARC.
April 18, 2022
I’m facing my husband’s death within a year. So I bought this thinking it would help. It didn’t. Widowhood is different for the rich and famous. All those glamorous friends rushing to her side. An almost immediate relationship.
I’m not a fan of her writing style. It’s glib and her attempts at humor fail miserably.
I’m not a fan of her writing style. It’s glib and her attempts at humor fail miserably.
November 17, 2022
When I hear about those I care about coming down with some kind of life-altering disease, I always pull up and consider....what would I do under similar circumstances? Would I fight? Would I quietly ride off into the sunset? Would I be angry; resigned; afraid; all of the above and then some? I've had three primary relatives and two secondary relatives face cancer, including two who came down with leukemia. Do I have one of those genes or tendencies? I've opted not to know. But I did opt to read about Delia Ephron's journey through it.
A memoir that is ultimately uplifting (she is alive to write it, after all), but one which delineates the ups and downs, the trials and tribulations, the steps forward and then backwards, the pain and anguish and the celebrations, the fears and the hopes, the isolation and the companionship, the questions without answers and the possibilities from thin air...this book provides it all. Such is the cancer journey.
Ephron shares that her journey was blessed with many serendipities, or "confluences" which allowed her path to contain some privileges not often shared by the average cancer fighter out there. How much that affected her outcome we can't know. But in this battle, where nothing is ever the same again, it is good to hear some beat the odds. It's nice to hear there might be more hope with some of the newer treatment options available, brutal though they might be. And bless those who are willing and able to provide stem cells for those in need. They are truly angels in human form.
It's a tough fight, but for those going through it or watching someone going through any tough disease, there's much to relate to. And I'm glad Ephron is here to fight another day with Verizon. :-)
A memoir that is ultimately uplifting (she is alive to write it, after all), but one which delineates the ups and downs, the trials and tribulations, the steps forward and then backwards, the pain and anguish and the celebrations, the fears and the hopes, the isolation and the companionship, the questions without answers and the possibilities from thin air...this book provides it all. Such is the cancer journey.
Ephron shares that her journey was blessed with many serendipities, or "confluences" which allowed her path to contain some privileges not often shared by the average cancer fighter out there. How much that affected her outcome we can't know. But in this battle, where nothing is ever the same again, it is good to hear some beat the odds. It's nice to hear there might be more hope with some of the newer treatment options available, brutal though they might be. And bless those who are willing and able to provide stem cells for those in need. They are truly angels in human form.
It's a tough fight, but for those going through it or watching someone going through any tough disease, there's much to relate to. And I'm glad Ephron is here to fight another day with Verizon. :-)
May 6, 2022
The only parts of the book that I found interesting/exciting we're the medical treatments. I'm fascinated by that stuff. I read the rest of the book in small doses because I could only take so much of her and her social life and her (seemingly multitudes of) close, lifelong friends. She's right - she is not her sister.
May 17, 2022
A Fabulous Book of Determination and Resilience and Finding Late in Life Love
SUMMARY
‘I’m not my sister. My leukemia is not her leukemia.’ was author Delia Ephron’s call to arms when she was diagnosed with the same disease that killed her sister, Nora, earlier. Just before her diagnosis, she falls madly in love with Peter, a San Franciso area psychiatrist. With Peter and close friends by her side, Delia takes us on a roller coaster of a journey through tears and laughter as she fights an uphill health battle and navigates the joyous emotions of finding love late in life.
REVIEW
Left on Tenth is simply a fabulous book. While memoirs about illnesses can be hard to read, Ephron adds levity and emotional honesty. But just because something is hard to read does not mean you shouldn't read it. Left on Tenth is definitely a book that should be read, shared and read again. It's about late in life resilience and determination and being open to new possibilities, and new options.
Ephron’s writing style, storytelling and tone were exceptionally moving. The flow of the book was smooth and easy. She beautifully and courageously shares the details of her illness and her thoughts and feelings as she is battling a cancer that has already ravaged her family. Her desire to write this book and the research required to put it together is admirable. She was certainly given a second chance at life. What a cause for celebration
Thanks to Netgalley for an advance reading copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Publisher Little Brown and Company
Published April 12, 2022
Review www.bluestockingreviews.com
SUMMARY
‘I’m not my sister. My leukemia is not her leukemia.’ was author Delia Ephron’s call to arms when she was diagnosed with the same disease that killed her sister, Nora, earlier. Just before her diagnosis, she falls madly in love with Peter, a San Franciso area psychiatrist. With Peter and close friends by her side, Delia takes us on a roller coaster of a journey through tears and laughter as she fights an uphill health battle and navigates the joyous emotions of finding love late in life.
REVIEW
Left on Tenth is simply a fabulous book. While memoirs about illnesses can be hard to read, Ephron adds levity and emotional honesty. But just because something is hard to read does not mean you shouldn't read it. Left on Tenth is definitely a book that should be read, shared and read again. It's about late in life resilience and determination and being open to new possibilities, and new options.
Ephron’s writing style, storytelling and tone were exceptionally moving. The flow of the book was smooth and easy. She beautifully and courageously shares the details of her illness and her thoughts and feelings as she is battling a cancer that has already ravaged her family. Her desire to write this book and the research required to put it together is admirable. She was certainly given a second chance at life. What a cause for celebration
Thanks to Netgalley for an advance reading copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Publisher Little Brown and Company
Published April 12, 2022
Review www.bluestockingreviews.com
April 17, 2022
The audible version of this memoir has the added dimension of featuring Delia's own voice, her iconic NY accent and all. I couldn't stop listening once I started, and agree with all the positive reviews by other readers.
Read
August 5, 2022I love the writing of Delia Ephron (also Nora Ephron, see above), and this is a wonderful memoir of losing her husband, finding new love, and dealing with a health crisis.
May 29, 2022
So beautiful. Loved so many things about this story. Falling in love at 71 was one of my favorite parts.
June 28, 2022
Author seems insufferable.
November 12, 2021
What a captivating read. I found myself crying and gripped to the page when she talked about her hospital stay. I was completely enthralled.
This was my first book by her, but I picked up this ARC courtesy of the publisher because I enjoyed her sister Nora’s books as well as the movies they have written.
I loved the author’s voice. It was so straightforward and just told me the story like it was. No fancy words or scenes, just real humanity and details of everyday life, and the miracles that appear. She went through a lot in a short amount of time and I devoured her journal-like entries, excited to read what came next.
I think this book is going to be a massive hit and I want to go back and read some of her others too, as well as more from Nora.
This was my first book by her, but I picked up this ARC courtesy of the publisher because I enjoyed her sister Nora’s books as well as the movies they have written.
I loved the author’s voice. It was so straightforward and just told me the story like it was. No fancy words or scenes, just real humanity and details of everyday life, and the miracles that appear. She went through a lot in a short amount of time and I devoured her journal-like entries, excited to read what came next.
I think this book is going to be a massive hit and I want to go back and read some of her others too, as well as more from Nora.
April 30, 2022
Harrowing but I couldn't put it down. Not a book for someone with health anxiety.
May 21, 2022
Ephron has penned a captivating story. I knew about the first twists in her life - the death of her longtime husband and the sudden magical connection with Peter. I did not realize she would also endure a devastating form of leukemia in which she had to choose between risky stem cell treatment and death.
I like Ephron's writing style. She's conversational and funny. She gets right to the point without too much description. She intersperses exchanges with Peter and her friends during her treatment. The book clips along at a satisfying pace.
Having considered stem cell treatment in our family, I also appreciated reading her experience. This is what graft-host disease looks like. This is what our doctor meant when he told us he would only turn to stem cell as a last resort.
Ultimately, however, I was unsettled by her wealth and privilege. She certainly did not have an easy childhood growing up with alcoholic parents, and I'm sorry for that. But to live on Tenth Avenue in Manhattan, to employ a full-time housekeeper, to jet between New York and Wales and the West Coast, to regularly see your hairdresser for a blow out. She survived this ordeal because she could afford to - the best doctors, connections, wealthy friends. This is not to say that I would spurn this money for more charitable endeavors, however, I couldn't help but fixate on all she has.
I like Ephron's writing style. She's conversational and funny. She gets right to the point without too much description. She intersperses exchanges with Peter and her friends during her treatment. The book clips along at a satisfying pace.
Having considered stem cell treatment in our family, I also appreciated reading her experience. This is what graft-host disease looks like. This is what our doctor meant when he told us he would only turn to stem cell as a last resort.
Ultimately, however, I was unsettled by her wealth and privilege. She certainly did not have an easy childhood growing up with alcoholic parents, and I'm sorry for that. But to live on Tenth Avenue in Manhattan, to employ a full-time housekeeper, to jet between New York and Wales and the West Coast, to regularly see your hairdresser for a blow out. She survived this ordeal because she could afford to - the best doctors, connections, wealthy friends. This is not to say that I would spurn this money for more charitable endeavors, however, I couldn't help but fixate on all she has.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 1, 2022
This is the first time I have read a book by Delia Ephron but I have read several of her sister Nora’s books (the late, great screenwriter and director). I think Delia co-wrote You’ve Got Mail, one of my favorite movies, with Nora. They both had a type of leukemia and this memoir describes the stem cell treatment that Delia underwent which ultimately saved her life. It’s also a love story, in which Delia details how she lost her husband to cancer and later found her second husband Peter.
It’s very relatable, especially since I am dealing with the fact that I will lose my husband to a terminal illness. Most of this book describes Delia’s treatment and recovery from her illness and how much Peter and her friends helped her through it. It was quite a journey and I recommend this book highly.
It’s very relatable, especially since I am dealing with the fact that I will lose my husband to a terminal illness. Most of this book describes Delia’s treatment and recovery from her illness and how much Peter and her friends helped her through it. It was quite a journey and I recommend this book highly.
August 1, 2022
More like 2.5 stars. The first half of the book was sweet and charming but by the time I got to the second half which was more about her journey with leukemia, I found myself irritated at the entitlement the author seemed to display in different areas. Things like expecting to have a better room at the hospital than the one she was given, or being indignant and furious because a doctor gave a negative outlook on a treatment she was undergoing.
August 27, 2022
Im not a fan of illness books so initially I was feeling rather tepid about this book, but the more I read the more I warmed up to Ms Ephron's remarkable story and her courageous battle against leukemia. By the end I was filled with admiration. She's a true warrior. 4 stars
May 16, 2022
This was addicting. Exactly why I come to memoirs. I followed along with the audiobook and was immediately immersed, swept away and hooked.
Death is the only guarantee in life and I love Delia’s vulnerability and honest depiction of her portrayal of coming close to it. She describes moments of begging her friends and doctors to just help her die. It was heartbreaking but also with the way she describes everything leading up to those moments-I was driving my car thinking, “I get it.”
I loved seeing her find love again after losing a great love of her life. Oh my god, I loved that so much. You’re never too old. It’s never too late. And how he was there Every Step of the Way for her! That’s what it’s all about.
Death is the only guarantee in life and I love Delia’s vulnerability and honest depiction of her portrayal of coming close to it. She describes moments of begging her friends and doctors to just help her die. It was heartbreaking but also with the way she describes everything leading up to those moments-I was driving my car thinking, “I get it.”
I loved seeing her find love again after losing a great love of her life. Oh my god, I loved that so much. You’re never too old. It’s never too late. And how he was there Every Step of the Way for her! That’s what it’s all about.
December 19, 2022
Friends and relatives have been dying all around me this past year so this book was of great interest. The more I read about cancer treatment, the more I am convinced the only hope is early diagnosis. I have had a couple of dear friends go through this torturous treatment for over a year and one has to wonder if it’s worth it. Even if you are in remission, you fear every check up, and with good reason. Even if you stay in remission the permanent toll from treatment on your body can be devastating. This book is a revelation but also a sad message.
I never even knew this talented sister existed and
I look forward to reading more.
I never even knew this talented sister existed and
I look forward to reading more.
April 13, 2022
I’m a sucker for these personal medical memoirs, written by talented women of sensitivity and courage. No Cure for Being Human by Kate Bowler and These Precious Days by Ann Pachett come to mind. Left on Tenth joins my list of recommendations. Delia Ephron is well known as a screen writer of popular movies like Sleepless in Seattle and You’ve Got Mail and as the sister and collaborator of the late Norah Ephron. I was ready to love this book before I read the first page.
Reeling from the deaths of sister Norah and her own beloved husband of 30 years, both from cancer, Delia writes with such compassion, we grieve with her. Her story takes a decidedly hopeful note when she writes an article about grief for the New York Times and receives an email in response. The message is from a widower writing from California who just happened to have gone on several dates with her when they were in high school. And, as a sign of the confluence Delia sees throughout her life, the dates were orchestrated by her sister Norah! Although she doesn’t remember the dates, Delia is open to continuing the conversation, and it isn’t long before the two recognize they have been given a second chance at love.
This sounds like the perfect plot for one of Delia’s movies with the music building as they plan their life together, but this is Real Life, not a rom com from the 90’s, and soon she gets the diagnosis she was dreading, the same leukemia that killed her sister.
By referring to emails and other writing from this period, the author was able to vividly recreate the travails of her crisis and treatment. Without a written record, most of her suffering and struggle would have been just a blur..
Her husband Peter was the single most important factor in her successful battle. He was not just a loving husband but a doctor who could help her navigate the course of her disease. Even more important, the man is a bona fide saint. Has there ever been any one kinder, stronger, more persistent and patient than Peter who just happened to be a Jungian psychiatrist trained to be a good listener? What would the course of her life had been if he hadn’t read and responded to her newspaper column? Once again, it speaks of confluence in Life.
My only complaint about this memoir — and it shows my own pettiness, not a criticism of the author — is that everyone of her friends was extraordinary, standing by her in the most loving and selfless ways, dropping everything to travel across the country or performing other thoughtful gestures. I have friends but frankly I wouldn’t expect them to give up their lives to support me.
I’m just glad they did so that Delia is here to share her story with all the people who love her.
Reeling from the deaths of sister Norah and her own beloved husband of 30 years, both from cancer, Delia writes with such compassion, we grieve with her. Her story takes a decidedly hopeful note when she writes an article about grief for the New York Times and receives an email in response. The message is from a widower writing from California who just happened to have gone on several dates with her when they were in high school. And, as a sign of the confluence Delia sees throughout her life, the dates were orchestrated by her sister Norah! Although she doesn’t remember the dates, Delia is open to continuing the conversation, and it isn’t long before the two recognize they have been given a second chance at love.
This sounds like the perfect plot for one of Delia’s movies with the music building as they plan their life together, but this is Real Life, not a rom com from the 90’s, and soon she gets the diagnosis she was dreading, the same leukemia that killed her sister.
By referring to emails and other writing from this period, the author was able to vividly recreate the travails of her crisis and treatment. Without a written record, most of her suffering and struggle would have been just a blur..
Her husband Peter was the single most important factor in her successful battle. He was not just a loving husband but a doctor who could help her navigate the course of her disease. Even more important, the man is a bona fide saint. Has there ever been any one kinder, stronger, more persistent and patient than Peter who just happened to be a Jungian psychiatrist trained to be a good listener? What would the course of her life had been if he hadn’t read and responded to her newspaper column? Once again, it speaks of confluence in Life.
My only complaint about this memoir — and it shows my own pettiness, not a criticism of the author — is that everyone of her friends was extraordinary, standing by her in the most loving and selfless ways, dropping everything to travel across the country or performing other thoughtful gestures. I have friends but frankly I wouldn’t expect them to give up their lives to support me.
I’m just glad they did so that Delia is here to share her story with all the people who love her.
December 22, 2021
Author and screenwriter Delia Ephron has been through a lot. Both her sister (well known author Nora Ephron) and husband passed away from cancer and Delia is feeling unmoored from this world. Delia is a prolific author best known for writing You've Got Mail and Siracusa; to write about her feelings helps her cope and understand life's pain. When her sister passed away in 2012 from leukemia, she wrote a column about her sister's death titled "I am not my sister." This column garnered lots of attention and one email that Delia received was from Peter, a man she had dated over 54 years ago.
Surprisingly, at least to Delia, they begin a romance.
It's when Delia herself is diagnosed with the same leukemia that killed her sister that the illusion of a happy ever after, romcom type of romance is challenged. Delia details her struggles with leukemia and the brutal treatment that she chooses to undergo; all while her romance with Peter is still in the newlywed phase. The author does a remarkable job of balancing the exhilaration of new love, with the pain of loss and illness.
* I read an advance copy and was not compensated.
Surprisingly, at least to Delia, they begin a romance.
It's when Delia herself is diagnosed with the same leukemia that killed her sister that the illusion of a happy ever after, romcom type of romance is challenged. Delia details her struggles with leukemia and the brutal treatment that she chooses to undergo; all while her romance with Peter is still in the newlywed phase. The author does a remarkable job of balancing the exhilaration of new love, with the pain of loss and illness.
* I read an advance copy and was not compensated.
May 25, 2022
3.75 stars
“I’ve gotten to make my living by my imagination. That’s a lovely thing.”
― Delia Ephron, Left on Tenth: A Second Chance at Life
I knew virtually nothing about Delia Ephron other than the fact that she was Nora Ephron's sister and that she was one of the writers that brought us the loveliness that is You've Got Mail. And while she and I differ on personal worldview and matters of faith, I appreciated her candor, authenticity, heart, and perspective on life, finding love, loss, illness, and grief. This memoir was raw and powerful with moments of much-needed levity and joy.
I really enjoyed this is audio format and was narrated by Delia. I am not always a fan of authors voicing their own works, but in this case, when narrating a personal story and one that is as raw and personal as Delia's, I appreciated the voice breaks, the pauses, the inflections that added to the gravity at the moment. Recommended in audio!
“I’ve gotten to make my living by my imagination. That’s a lovely thing.”
― Delia Ephron, Left on Tenth: A Second Chance at Life
I knew virtually nothing about Delia Ephron other than the fact that she was Nora Ephron's sister and that she was one of the writers that brought us the loveliness that is You've Got Mail. And while she and I differ on personal worldview and matters of faith, I appreciated her candor, authenticity, heart, and perspective on life, finding love, loss, illness, and grief. This memoir was raw and powerful with moments of much-needed levity and joy.
I really enjoyed this is audio format and was narrated by Delia. I am not always a fan of authors voicing their own works, but in this case, when narrating a personal story and one that is as raw and personal as Delia's, I appreciated the voice breaks, the pauses, the inflections that added to the gravity at the moment. Recommended in audio!
February 26, 2022
This memoir is about second chances at love and life. Delia Ephron is a true warrior in every sense of the word, and her vulnerability, strength, and resilience fill the pages of this memoir. Her love story with Peter is endearing and heartwarming-- all the result of a blood boiling conversation with Verizon. Delia's near death experience is shocking and devastating, but Peter's loyalty and dedication throughout is beyond admirable. I also enjoyed the incorporation of text and email exchanges as a mechanism to drive the plot.
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