About the book

Dr. Vautrin, as he was commonly addressed, retired on January 1, 2001. He did not know what he would do to occupy his time. He briefly considered a new hobby, painting, until he realized the space it would require and the messy environment it would create. In 2002, his astute wife, Thecla, registered them both in the Taproot workshop at their community library, Half Hollow Hills, New York. Taproot is a nonprofit organization for senior writers where the craft of writing is learned, practiced, and critiqued among the group. Maurice was not sure where to begin. Thanks to Thecla, who suggested he write short stories about his life and reflections, his enthusiasm took off and he wrote his memoirs. Here, he leaves his legacy, spanning nearly nine decades for his French and American families, his patients, and all his descendants. He wishes every family would leave to their loved ones such testimonies so rich for us all.