Short Synopsis
From the author of the bestselling The Age of American Unreason comes this impassioned, closely reasoned critique of the myth that a radically new old age—unmarred by physical and mental infirmity, financial problems, or loneliness—awaits the baby-boom generation.

Full Synopsis
In a narrative that combines the intensely personal with social, economic, and historical analysis, Susan Jacoby turns an unsparing eye on the marketers of longevity—pharmaceutical companies, lifestyle gurus, and scientific businessmen who suggest that there will soon be a "cure" for the "disease" of aging. She separates wishful hype from realistic hope in a wide-ranging appraisal of subjects that include the explosion of Alzheimer's cases, the impact of possible cuts in Social Security on the economic future of aging boomers, and the fact that women make up most of the "oldest old." Finally, Jacoby raises the fundamental question of whether living longer is a desirable thing unless it means living better, and she considers the profound moral and ethical concerns raised by increasing longevity.

Never Say Die is a lucid, provocative, and powerful argument that Americans, no matter their age, are doing themselves no favor by buying into the myth that they can stay "forever young."

"Drawing on research, personal experience, and anecdotes, [Jacoby] offers an important reality check for Americans enamored of the images of healthy, active seniors featured in advertisements." ---Booklist Starred Review

"Never Say Die is a beautifully written, clear-eyed, and deeply compassionate book." ---Sam Harris, author of The Moral Landscape

"A cogently argued and well-written corrective to 'the fantasy of beating old age.'" ---Kirkus

"[A] beautifully crafted book." ---Barbara Ehrenreich, author of Nickel and Dimed

"This is not a cheerful book, but it is an important one, read with distinction and authority by Laural Merlington; recommended." ---Library Journal Audio Review

AudioFile Earphones Award Winner

Library Journal Bestseller

Booklist Review