A collection of sketches of Mama at various significant stages in the author's life. It zeroes in on "MAMA" as she almost dies from cancer, then has Alzheimer disease, and how it affects this writer.
The title, Mama The Sailor, was inspired by a photo of Mama wearing the Captain's hat as she sailed to France on the Queen Elizabeth, at a happpier time of her life. It stands as a symbol for the voyage that each lifetime on earth really is. Mama's gracious and loving character still manages to transpire almost to the end, although it s somewhat marred by the progression of her Alzheimer. THe last chapter in particular when the author is left alone to say her goodby's to her departed mother is particularly moving: "Mama, do you remember how you use to bring me cakes.....Mama, Mama!