Still Life at Eighty

The Next Interesting Thing

By: Abigail Thomas

Narrated by: Abigail Thomas

From the New York Times bestselling author of A Three Dog Life, a witty and irreverent look at aging and the writing life, delivered with trademark brevity, humor, and wise wit.

“The Emily Dickinson of memoirists” (Stephen King) Abigail Thomas shares her thoughts on aging in this irresistibly wry memoir-in-vignettes—offering richly insightful writing tips along the way.

While reflecting on the past, Abby accepts the shape of her present. No more driving, no more dancing, mostly sitting in a comfortable chair in a sunny corner with three dogs for company—as well as the birds and other critters that she watches out her window. Only this beloved writer could generate so much enthusiasm over what might seem so little. Vivid memories fall like confetti, as time contracts, shoots forward, loops and suddenly she is back in her twenties in New York City, drinking, sleeping with strangers, falling in and out of love, believing in a better world. Sometimes dread or grief arrives, inhabits her body like a shadow, and all she can do is write it away, paying close attention to what catches her eye, sticks in her brain, keeps her in the moment.

Whether you’re a book lover, dog lover—or both—pull up a chair, pour a cup of tea, and enter Abigail Thomas’s quietly mesmerizing world.

Critic reviews

"On the verge of turning 80, American novelist, poet, and memoirist Abigail Thomas wrote a series of introspective vignettes about the quotidian moments of her life at that time. She conversationally shares observations, occasionally in third person, of ordinary moments during the extraordinary times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the innumerable joys she reflects on are her beloved dogs. Many of the moments captured in this quietly memorable audiobook include their antics, as well as some poignant moments involving loss. The author’s keen wit further seasons the collection as new hobbies, like spatchcocking chicken, take her by surprise, or when mulling over the term “senior citizen” versus “elder.” Thomas’s unhurried performance invites listeners of all ages to pause and appreciate each day."

Experiences like mine

Loved it all. We’ll read and written. Women can live alone in their older years.

A life being well lived.

I love Abigail Thomas’s work. Each piece is glorious; Ms. Thomas is glorious. I am forever recommending her work to friends. Reading her work is like catching up with a dear friend.

Old lady awesome

Lady just a few years older than I am is still living and learning— and has some pretty good advice! Never give up!!

So Real

I could see myself being in the story because at seventy-nine I shared many of the same experiences. Also, I found myself laughing at many of her experiences.

her introspectiveness

my expectations were for something to think about or realize as I had just turned 70. It is not that. In the end I discovered that it is more of a book for those contemplating writing a memoir. Sad to say, I almost stopped reading this several times. But I didn't, hoping for an ah-ha ending. For me, it moved far too slow and so many words about plants, flowers, trees and insects was overwhelming. In spite of this, she is a good writer. Just not my cup of tea.