Unforgettable: A Son, A Mother, and the Lessons of a Lifetime

Unforgettable: A Son, A Mother, and the Lessons of a Lifetime  by Scott Simon           Audio Book:  6 hours       Paperback Book: 272 pages          

What a fun story about Scott Simon’s mother,, Patricia.   Written as only a loving son could tell it, there are celebrity and society names mentioned, there are glimpses into what it’s like growing up the son of a successful though alcoholic comedian father  and a sometimes actress but all the time great gal, Mother, then after they divorced, many of Mom’s pals, 3 more husbands, and all the adventures that got them from there to here.    His mother is so full of life that Scott’s telling gives a real word portrait of growing up with a beautiful mother that men threw themselves to be with her and how a young boy comes to terms with all the gay male friends who frequented their home and remained dear friends all their lives.   One story in particular when at 2 years old, while out at a chic restaurant with his mother and grandmother he sees one of his grandmothers dear friends who often came over in drag, however at the restaurant he was portraying his hetero side in a 3 piece suit.   Scott screamed, “Grace!  Grace!”  (The  gentleman’s alter ego.)    The man obviously with a group who did not know his other side came over and said, “What a lovely young man, but, I believe you have mistaken me for someone else.”   He looked to Patricia and her mother but received no help, though they did pretend not to know him to keep his cover going.    Scot continued to rail, “Grace!  Grace!   Don’t you know me?  Don’t you recognize me?”  Scott carried on so the poor man had to leave or be exposed!    Scott Simon  juxtaposes the history of the times with  the prevailing attitudes and what was happening in their own lives.  He gives an honest approach to the good and the bad they went through over the years and how everyone in their circle affected him and helped him to become the man he is today.   Whether it was his Mom’s Irish upbringing or being married to his comedic father, regardless the situation,  his mother looked for and taught Scott to look for the funny side in all things.   She also taught him to always write notes of thanks for both small and big things.   People remember what you say and how you took the time out to say something nice to them personally.    She taught him to leave big tips because tips got them through many a dicey time when they needed to scrape up rent or food money during those in between times.   (Usually in between lovers or husbands and acting jobs.)   This would serve him the rest of his life.   Scott is a successful writer and broadcaster on NPR.    I loved all the recollections and the laughter.    There were hard times too and when times got too hard Mom got married or found a boyfriend with money to help them get by.  They had many a wonderful adventure and loads of memories that I am glad he shared.    Good book.