The Prowler

An Old Man, a Young Man, and Life's Greatest Lesson: Tuesday's with Morrie

Monday, April 30, 2012 By Amy Pennington

Tuesday’s with Morrie was not only a worldwide best seller but an inspiring novel with many aphorisms to help with everyday struggles. Throughout the book, Morrie Schwartz is painfully dying from Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, commonly known as ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease). However, Schwartz is not the typical 79 year old man who has come face to face with many people’s biggest fear in life: death. He has a unique positive personality that lasts until his final breath. Schwartz, who was once a Psychology teacher, had touched the lives of many; one in particular was Mitch Albom. After discovering Albom’s favorite teacher, Morrie Schwartz, has a terminal illness, Albom reunites with his “coach” in hopes of rekindling their friendship. Throughout the book, Schwartz dedicates his last months to teaching his beloved student the ways of life and how death is not something to be feared. Albom, who is the author of the book, has touched many lives by spreading Schwartz’s wisdom, including the students here at Northshore High School. According to English II teacher Mrs. Annie Verzwyvelt, Tuesday’s with Morrie became a required reading for students here at Northshore about six years ago. During this period, Verzwyvelt has witnessed students fall in love with the amazing book. When asked if she believed the book has positively changed her students, Verzwyvelt says, “I believe the book has definitely transformed their outlook on life. I really think it makes them stop and think about the changes they should make.” The majority of students who have read this book loved and cherished every chapter. For example, sophomore Skylar Beasley, said of the book, “I think it’s so intriguing because it touched on a topic not many of us have ever thought of considering we are so young.” This compelling book has proven itself worthy of the many awards it has received. My recommendation goes out for anyone looking for a meaningful book that has touched the lives of many; I am sure the students of Northshore would agree to give Tuesday’s with Morrie five out five panther paws.