“Dear God, I’m not asking you to explain why I’m sick. I’m asking you to help me live with it.”
Letters to God
The story begins with Oscar, a terminally ill 10-year-old boy, writing letters to God from his hospital bed. He is under the care of “Granny Rose,” an elderly volunteer who visits children in the hospital. Oscar is skeptical about God but agrees to write these letters as part of a game proposed by Granny Rose.
The Ten-Day Challenge
Granny Rose suggests that Oscar imagine each remaining day of his life as ten years, allowing him to experience a full lifetime in just ten days. Each “decade” brings new experiences, emotions, and reflections. Oscar begins this journey with curiosity, though he remains aware of his fragile condition.
Day 1 (Childhood – 0-10 years)
Oscar describes his early “years,” filled with hospital routines, friendships with other sick children, and his initial resistance to Granny Rose’s wisdom. He starts to see life differently, finding small joys despite his pain.
Day 2 (Adolescence – 10-20 years)
Oscar experiences the turbulence of adolescence—rebellion, first crushes, and existential questions. He bonds with Peggy Blue, a fellow patient, and begins to understand love and loss as she deteriorates before his eyes.
Day 3 (Young Adulthood – 20-30 years)
Oscar wrestles with deeper fears about death and purpose. Granny Rose shares stories from her past as a wrestler, teaching him about resilience. Oscar starts to see suffering as part of life’s beauty.
Day 4 (Maturity – 30-40 years)
Oscar reflects on missed opportunities and the passage of time. He grows closer to his parents, who struggle with guilt and grief. Granny Rose encourages him to forgive and cherish every moment.
Day 5 (Midlife – 40-50 years)
Oscar faces a crisis of meaning, questioning whether his short life has value. Granny Rose helps him see that impact isn’t measured in years but in love and courage. He writes more openly to God.
Day 6 (Wisdom Years – 50-60 years)
Oscar gains a sense of peace, accepting his fate with humor and grace. He comforts other children in the hospital, passing on Granny Rose’s lessons. His letters to God become more intimate and trusting.
Day 7 (Old Age – 60-70 years)
Oscar imagines himself as an old man, reflecting on a life well-lived despite its brevity. He reconciles with his parents, expressing gratitude for their love. Granny Rose remains his steadfast guide.
Day 8 (Final Days – 70-80 years)
Oscar’s health declines rapidly. He writes about his fear of the unknown but also his hope for what lies beyond. Granny Rose assures him that death is just another adventure.
Day 9 (The End – 80-90 years)
Oscar bids farewell to his loved ones, leaving behind letters for his parents and Granny Rose. He expresses no regrets, only love. His final words to God are a mix of thanks and playful defiance.
Day 10 (Epilogue)
Granny Rose shares Oscar’s letters with his parents, helping them find closure. The book ends with her quiet reflection on the boy who lived a lifetime in ten days.
Key Ideas
- The transformative power of imagination in facing mortality.
- Finding joy and meaning in life’s fleeting moments.
- The importance of human connection in times of suffering.
- Spirituality as a personal journey, not a set of rigid beliefs.
- Acceptance and courage as forms of victory over adversity.
Who should read this book?
- Readers seeking a poignant exploration of life and death.
- Those coping with illness or loss, personally or through loved ones.
- Fans of philosophical fiction with emotional depth.