Mary Helen Stefaniak Knihy

This collection of short essays delivers more joy than many books twice its size. Each essay invites readers into the ordinary life of a woman "with a family and friends and a job . . . and a series of cats and a history living in one old house after another at the turn of the twenty-first century in the middle of the Middle West." Writing prompts at the end of the book invite readers to search their own lives for such moments--the kind that could be forgotten but instead are turned, by the gift of perspective and perfectly chosen detail, into treasure. The Six-Minute Memoir encourages people to tell their own stories even if they think they don't have the kind of story that belongs in a memoir.

With the help of quirky kitchen worker Foster Kresowik, wheelchair-bound resident Robert Kallman creates a video game that allows nursing home residents to relive cherished memories or create new experiences. One-legged Duane Lotspeich is thrilled to dance the tango again, while octogenarian Laverne Slatchek cheers for her favorite baseball team alongside her late husband. Even the overwhelmed administrator finds solace in a more luxurious virtual world. However, the joy turns to chaos when Robert is discovered dead in the pond, still in his wheelchair. The circumstances of his death are murky, leaving residents and police uncertain if it was suicide or murder. As Robert's game goes dark, the players become desperate to restore it, leading Foster to rally a motley crew of residents and staff. Their quest—both virtual and real—unveils hidden criminal activities and the final wishes of Robert. This unlikely group embarks on an extraordinary journey filled with unexpected challenges and profound revelations. Blending sharp wit and compassion, the narrative offers a rousing, perceptive, and original exploration of life, memory, and the bonds that unite us.