Kendal at Oberlin Blog

A few years ago, 99-year-old Doreetha Daniels received her associate’s degree in social sciences. Her goal was simple – she wanted to better herself.

At a recent creative non-fiction conference I attended, the organizer asked the 300 writers what kind of book they were writing or interested in writing. When “memoir” was mentioned, almost everyone’s hand went up.

“Once upon a time, fiction ruled the market. Today, however, nonfiction is just as heavily competitive – and memoir is a key corner of that genre,” writes Jack Smith in The Writer.

I like books and I like lists and I’m a baby boomer so I’ve got a bucket list, which is why this book got my attention: 1,000 Books to Read Before You Die by James Mustich.

Heading south on the main road leading into Oberlin, a historical marker greets you:

“Oberlin Town and College Founded 1833.

First to Welcome Male and Female Students of All Races.”

The city was considered a safe place for escaped slaves and home to many ardent abolitionists and women’s rights pioneers. As the gay rights movement got underway in the early 1970s, Oberlin College was in the forefront.  

Concerts, plays and other artistic performances. Lectures by scientists, authors, civic and government leaders.  A state-of-the-art fitness center. Men and women from diverse ethnic, cultural, economic and sexual backgrounds. A 24/7 vibe. Sporting events.  A vibrant nearby town.

No surprise, the market for books about older adults is big and growing.  

Emails, mailboxes and voice mails are filling up with requests for charitable donations. Makes sense, as this is the season for giving and making end-of-year tax donations. This year, appeals are in even higher gear, given recent hurricanes, earthquakes and fires.

The next time you attend a concert or visit a grocery store, take a minute to look around and see all the ways people are different.

I’m giving my eyes a little R&R this summer by turning to podcasts for some of my news and entertainment.  Turns out I’m not alone.

In 1963, when President John F. Kennedy designated May the month to highlight older adults, only 17 million Americans were 65 or older.  Today, more than 46 million men and women have reached 65, and by 2060, that population will more than double.