The Book of Charlie: Wisdom from the Remarkable American Life of a 109-Year-Old Man

by David Von Drehle

Washington Post writer David Von Drehle forges an unlikely and life-changing friendship with his centenarian neighbor, Charlie, when he and his family relocate to Kansas City. What can you learn from someone who has lived for more than a century? A lot! Charlie’s resilience and willingness to grow throughout his life helped him thrive during tough times and his optimism and grit helped him get through almost anything. As Tom Hanks so eloquently posted about the book on Instagram, “I gotta recommend this book, filled with history, wisdom, common sense and laughs galore. I wish I had lived across the street from Charlie AND that I make it to 109!” We feel the same way, Tom.