David has cancer. Now the whole family is under the same terrible verdict. David's wife becomes progressively consumed by the looming shadow of death while his daughters struggle to be as helpful as possible. Meanwhile, David soldiers on, not wanting the tumor to rob him of everything, including the chance to see his granddaughter grow up. Vanistendael's extraordinary art and sensitive text provide a powerful portrayal of a family preparing for life after unimaginable loss. Judith Vanistendael lives in Brussels, Belgium.

"Published in French as David les femmes et la mort, Ã Éditions du Lombard (Dargaud-Lombard S.A.) 2012, by Vanistendael (Judith)"--T.p. verso. "The moment his granddaughter Louise is born, David learns that he has cancer. He would rather keep quiet about his illness, the pain and the end that awaits him-- much to the frustration of the women in his life. They wait, powerless, for the silent but inexorable end" -- p. [4] of cover.