Monday, March 11, 2024

Book Review: The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch

Book Review: The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch

Melinda Gustafson Gevasi

March 11, 2024

Legacy Letters, also known as Ethical Wills, have grown in appeal in recent years.  Not a legally binding document, a Legacy Letter is just that, a letter you write with the intent it be read at the end of your life aimed at focus on your values, insights and life lessons.  Generally they are a few pages long, however, my recent re-reading of Randy Pauch's The Last Lecture reminded me that they can be more in depth.

A 2008 NY Times Bestseller, the book is an expansion on the last lecture Prof. Randy Pausch gave on September 18, 2007 at Carnegie Mellon University.  At the time he knew he was losing his battle with pancreatic cancer, and only had months to live. The father of three very young children, the lecture and subsequent book allowed him to leave a legacy for his children.  As described on the book cover, the book is not about dying, but rather a lesson on overcoming obstacles and going after your dreams. 

Just over 200 pages in length, this book is a wonderful read and may spark inspiration in you to leave a letter or other type of creative work for your loved ones, especially those that may be too young to remember you well. 


Thank you for reading.  If you have a book recommendation related to my area of focus, estate planning and probate, please leave a comment.  Be well!




 

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