Part of what distinguishes this work from other medical sagas of neurodegenerative disorders is the author’s deft depiction of family members, with particular focus on the bonds between Jean’s children. Barb, for example –– long before the onset of her mother’s FTD symptoms –– perceived herself as “the blond, adorable little good-luck charm of eight older brothers and sisters[,] … most of [whom] seemed like rock stars,” Kolker writes.