My aunt offhandedly recommended this book after making a playful comparison to my grandfather, her father, who is suffering from neurological issues due to metastatic cancer. I was immediately entranced and believe everyone should read this book, especially if you know anyone who has had a TBI or other neurological disorder.
The book offers a unique and compassionate exploration of the human mind. Through a series of intriguing case studies, Sacks vividly portrays the lives of individuals with unusual neurological conditions, allowing readers to see the world from their perspectives. The book is not just about medical cases; it's a celebration of human resilience and the complexities of identity. Even if you're not into nonfiction or neurology, Sacks' empathetic storytelling and the fascinating insights into the human condition make it a compelling and thought-provoking read.
My mother was hit by a car while out running in ‘02 when I was three years old and suffered a TBI as a result. Last year, in May, she was hit by a car AGAIN while running but only suffered a few bone breaks and a minor head injury. Despite the minimal amount of damage caused by the second accident, her mental faculties have certainly began corroding at a more rapid pace than they had previously. Through reading Dr. Sack’s book, I’ve become more empathetic and aware of the seemingly fantastical and bewildering mistakes my mother has made since this second hit. Moving forward, I will now treat my mother with more care and understanding than I probably had been giving her before, although unintentional on my behalf. Not that I ever stopped loving my mother, but Sacks has provided a resurgence of compassion and adoration towards her that may have been occluded by the naive frustration I held against her, a truly resilient and brilliant woman. I would love to thank him if I could 🙂
by PinkToucan_