I love stories that ultimately warn the reader not to be taken in by first impressions. In The Red Address book elderly, frail Doris reveals her past through entries in her address book. So many names are crossed out, replaced with the word “Dead,” and the reader’s heart breaks for Doris’ solitary, isolated life. But, I think Doris is stronger than the opening pages lead the reader to believe. She is writing down her life stories and reminiscing about family and friends sparked by address book entries. Many of the entries are sad due to loss, but I am hoping that there will be sn equal amount of joyous memories, making for a balanced, well-lived life.