Carol’s answer to “Do you need to read the first book to understand this one?” > Likes and Comments

I must, most respectfully, disagree. I have not read OK and I more than appreciated OA. ES's characters are fully formed for the new reader and each stands on their own. It is apparent that they each come with their own back story but this does not, in any way, detract from the insights as to their circumstance, suffering, coping & sharing.

It is an indication of ES's brilliant writing that this book can and does stand on it's own. Her compassion and respect for her characters encouraged me to look to my own future and showed me that I have a choice as to how I face my own "senior" years. I still ask myself "what kind of person do I want to be? Do I want to share my time with? How judgemental am I and will I let my own biases and prejudices close me off from people and experiences that might enrich my life." She reminds me that I still have choices. Timshel.

However, OK has jumped the queue and is now at the top of my "next to read" list and I have no doubt that when I'm finished, I'll probably agree with those who feel that reading OK first is highly recommended! ;)

I don't think it's necessary to have read the first OliveK, but it will certainly deepen and enrich this sequel if you have.