Garry Lowen spent his life in Southend, Essex. He was known as Mr Southend and he devoted himself to the town, now a city, and its community.
When he was diagnosed with MND last year one of his regrets was that he hadn't written the book of his life. His experiences running a guest house and his efforts championing Southend as well as his family story and early careers all made good material, he thought, but now he wouldn't have the time or capability to write it all down.
But his cousin, Sarah Atkins, recently retired from her demanding job in education, and an aspiring writer, volunteered to take on the task for him. She spent hours meeting with Garry listening to his memories. She met his friends and family to gather their thoughts and recollections and all the time she could see his health deteriorate.
Her achievement in putting together this book is extraordinary. She knew she had limited time with Garry but it is constructed thoughtfully and reads beautifully, making the man come alive even to readers who haven't met him. It is fascinating and entertaining. And Garry's life was inspiring. There are lessons in here for all of us.
Profits from the sale of the book will go to the hospice where Garry received such good care, and you can read more about his story on the BBC website here.
For recommended non-fiction titles, take a look here.
