Tag: non fiction (Page 1 of 4)

ROMAN EMPERORS AND THEIR ILLNESSES by Nick Summerton

April 1, 2026 / aylah234@hotmail.com / 0 Comments

Medical history has been particularly unkind to some historical figures. The, so-called, ‘mad emperors’ Caligula, Tiberius and Nero cannot question their various psychiatric diagnoses or request a second opinion. Neither can Maximinus Thrax, Nero or Caligula demand further testing to refute or confirm the suggestions that they all suffered from a type of hormonal disorder.

By undertaking a detailed evaluation of the ancient sources relating to Augustus, he has been re-characterised as an individual surviving to the age of 75 with a long-term lung condition. Perhaps some of his enigmatic behaviours and actions represented a reaction to developing a chronic disease at a young age?

Claudius suffered from a movement disorder that affected his mobility and speech. Although highly intelligent, the response of the Imperial family to his disability was to keep him in the shadows, out of politics and public affairs. He became of figure of fun, ridiculed within Roman high society and subjected to insults and cruel tricks. The indignities and hardships he experienced in his youth probably had an impact on his character, health and behaviour. Also, it seems much more likely that he died due to a stroke or a heart attack rather than from consuming poisoned mushrooms!

Marcus Aurelius might not have been as physically unwell as has been suggested by both modern and ancient historians. Despite suffering from sinusitis, gastroenteritis plus various aches and pains, there is no evidence that he had any longer-term health problems.

Diagnosing the illnesses of Roman emperors might not be viewed as an appropriate line of enquiry given the enormous gulf that separates ancient and modern medicine. However, although there are certainly some major challenges in using present medical knowledge to identify past diseases, there are potential opportunities too in augmenting – or even correcting – the historical record.

Thanks to Pen & Sword and NetGalley for this review copy!

This book approaches an inherently tempting subject — the illnesses and deaths of Roman emperors — with admirable restraint, rigor, and intellectual honesty. From the outset, Roman Emperors and Their Diseases makes clear that it is not interested in exploiting the past for novelty or easy diagnostic speculation. Instead, it opens with a thoughtful methodological framework that challenges what the author describes as a “presentist” approach to medical history — the assumption that modern medical knowledge can be cleanly mapped backward onto ancient lives.

As the author notes, many modern doctors are keen to exploit the past as a source of amusing anecdotes, yet far less attention is given to understanding ancient medical writing or archaeology as tools that might inform modern healthcare or population wellbeing. This mindset, the book argues, risks portraying ancient medicine as inherently inferior and history as a simple, linear march toward improvement — an assumption that oversimplifies both medicine and the human experience of illness.

Before addressing individual emperors, the book carefully prepares the reader by examining the nature of retrospective diagnosis, the problem of language, the concept of disease, and the limitations of historical sources. The author repeatedly emphasizes that we cannot exhume bodies, conduct examinations, interview family members, or even be certain that recorded symptoms reflect what a patient truly experienced. What survives is filtered through cultural expectations, political motives, and linguistic constraints.

One particularly effective section explores the distinction between illness, disease, and sickness. As the text explains, illness refers to a person’s subjective experience of poor health (including situations where no disease can be identified), while sickness reflects a socially negotiated role. How a condition is labeled — or whether it is acknowledged at all — depends heavily on societal metaphors, stigma, and expectations. These frameworks may even explain the behavior of historical figures, including the feigning of illness or the denial of certain conditions.

This attention to sociocultural framing carries through the book’s discussion of diagnosis itself. Drawing on historians of medicine, the author argues that diseases do not possess a fixed identity across time. Rather, diagnosis emerges from a compound of biological, cultural, and social elements — of which the medical component is sometimes the least important. What constituted “disease” in Roman medicine often diverges sharply from modern classifications; for example, fever was considered a disease in its own right by writers such as Celsus and Galen, rather than a symptom as we understand it today.

When the book turns to the emperors themselves, it does so with admirable caution.

Throughout the text, there is a recurring acknowledgment that many emperors may not have died of natural disease at all. Poisoning — subtle, chronic, or acute — remains a plausible alternative in numerous cases, and the author does not shy away from that reality. Rather than forcing definitive conclusions, the book presents competing possibilities and weighs them thoughtfully against available evidence.

The section on Augustus is notably long and detailed, reflecting both the abundance of surviving material and the complexity of his prolonged decline. In general, the book draws on an impressive range of primary and secondary sources, weaving together historical writings, medical interpretation, and political context. The scholarship feels thorough without being pedantic.

Readers should be aware that the text makes liberal use of Latin (and occasionally Greek), often presenting original phrases alongside English translations. While this will delight readers with a classical background, others may find it slows the pacing at times — though it does reinforce the author’s emphasis on linguistic precision and source fidelity.

Overall, Roman Emperors and Their Diseases succeeds because it resists easy answers. It respects both the limits of modern medicine and the complexities of the ancient world, offering a careful, well-researched exploration rather than speculative certainty. This is a rewarding read for those interested in medical history, Roman history, or the intersection of power, health, and mortality — provided they appreciate nuance over neat conclusions.

NAGASAKI: The Last Witnesses by M. G. Sheftall

December 4, 2025 / Kyle Wendy Skultety / 0 Comments

The second volume in a prize-worthy two-book series based on years of irreplicable personal interviews with survivors about each of the atomic bomb drops, first in Hiroshima and then Nagasaki, that hastened the end of the Pacific War.
On August 6, 1945, the United States unleashed a weapon unlike anything the world had ever seen. Then, just three days later, when Japan showed no sign of surrender, the United States took aim at Nagasaki.
Rendered in harrowing detail, this historical narrative is the second and final volume in M. G. Sheftall’s “Embers” series. Sheftall has spent years personally interviewing hibakusha—the Japanese word for atomic bomb survivors. These last living witnesses are a vanishing memory resource, the only people who can still provide us with reliable and detailed testimony about life in their cities before the use of nuclear weaponry.
The result is an intimate, firsthand account of life in Nagasaki, and the story of incomprehensible devastation and resilience in the aftermath of the second atomic bomb drop. This blow-by-blow account takes us from the city streets, as word of the attack on Hiroshima reaches civilians, to the cockpit of Bockscar, when Charles Sweeney dropped “Fat Man,” to the interminable six days while the world waited to see if Japan would surrender to the Allies–or if more bombs would fall.

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for this review copy!

History hums through the quiet aftermath — Nagasaki: The Last Witnesses is less about the blast and more about the echo.

In Nagasaki, M.G. Sheftall delivers a haunting, meticulously layered follow-up to his earlier masterpiece Hiroshima. Where Hiroshima explored the moment the world split open, Nagasaki lingers in the silence that followed — the echoing questions, the invisible scars, and the resilience of a city often overshadowed in collective memory.

The author returns to familiar ground but digs even deeper, tracing not only what happened on that fateful August day but what lingered afterward — in the ruins, in the hearts of survivors, and in the uneasy quiet of a city learning to live again.

I adored Hiroshima, and I couldn’t wait to see where Sheftall would take us next. Nagasaki feels like a companion piece, yes, but also its own living, breathing entity — one that insists we remember what came after the explosion. Hiroshima often dominates the public consciousness, but Nagasaki’s story has always felt like the quieter, forgotten sibling. The bomb itself was different, and so were the circumstances surrounding it. Sheftall doesn’t let that difference fade into footnotes; he gives Nagasaki the depth and dignity it deserves.

Sheftall’s prose is articulate and immersive, blending his historian’s precision with a novelist’s empathy. Every street corner, every ruined fragment of the city feels alive with the weight of what came before. His gift lies in how he builds atmosphere through meticulous context: you don’t just read about Nagasaki, you walk its hills, smell the ash and salt air, and hear the hum of life returning to a place once unthinkably devastated. This gifted author paints with history — not just describing the facts but creating atmosphere through sensory detail and emotional nuance. I could almost feel the humid summer air and hear the faint murmur of life trying to return amid devastation. The city becomes a character in its own right: scarred, defiant, and enduring.

Nagasaki’s children were born into a world where they had never known peace; war was the only constant. What strikes me most is how quickly the extraordinary became ordinary — how easily childhood was reshaped into service, obedience, and survival.

As the author writes, “In October 1943, as the war steadily drained the nation’s supply of prime working-age men, the Japanese government cancelled classroom instruction for all formerly draft-deferrable male college students… In April 1944… the classroom cancellations were extended to every child in the country 15 years or older… Three months after this edict… the war labor mobilization age was dropped again to 12.”

By then, innocence itself had been conscripted. “On campus and under direct teacher supervision, the youngest students — the 12 to 13-year-old first graders — did unpaid ‘volunteer’ war work, tending vegetable patches on the school grounds or assembling cartridge magazines for machine guns in the school workshop.”

Even the sanctity of home life dissolved under the weight of war. “There was even a maid’s bedroom, although this was redundant in 1945 Japan; the nation’s domestic servants had long since been hauled away to work in war plants, giving Michiko’s mother dishpan hands for the first time in history.”

And while Nagasaki itself remained physically untouched for much of the war, scarcity gnawed at daily life: “…the most immediately dire of which was food.” Families hovered “at or just above the lowest level of Maslow’s pyramid, their lives increasingly focused on desperate efforts to find food and a dwindling ability to enjoy what was found when these efforts succeeded.”

While Hiroshima dominates the historical and literary landscape, Sheftall reminds us that Nagasaki’s story is equally vital — and uniquely complex. The different type of bomb dropped there, and the distinct cultural, political, and geographic circumstances surrounding it, make this account essential reading for anyone who believes history deserves its full breadth.

Sheftall doesn’t sensationalize; he illuminates. He brings forward the voices too often drowned out — the survivors, the scientists, the ordinary citizens whose days began like any other and ended in unrecognizable worlds. His narrative choices carry a quiet reverence, and his structure mirrors the slow, painful rebuilding of identity and faith after catastrophe.

What I love most about Sheftall’s approach is that he doesn’t write tragedy for shock value. He writes to reconnect us to empathy — to remind us that history isn’t static. It breathes through those who lived it, and through those of us who bear witness now.

Nagasaki is not a retelling of horror for its own sake. It’s a study of endurance, humanity, and the way memory bends but does not break. It stands as both a necessary companion and a powerful standalone testament — reminding us that the aftermath can be just as defining as the event itself.

In a literary landscape where Hiroshima has long held the spotlight, Sheftall’s Nagasaki steps forward not to compete, but to complete the story.

Nagasaki is not an easy book, but it’s an essential one. It asks for your attention and your compassion in equal measure. And when you close the final page, you carry the echo with you — quiet, resonant, and unforgettable.

For anyone who thought the story ended with Hiroshima, M.G. Sheftall gently, powerfully reminds us: it didn’t.

You can grab it here and walk the streets of Nagasaki for yourself. It’s an experience that lingers long after the last page.

THE ELEMENTS OF MARIE CURIE by Dava Sobel

February 11, 2025 / aylah234@hotmail.com / 0 Comments

The acclaimed Pulitzer Prize finalist and #1 New York Times bestselling author of Galileo’s Daughter crafts a luminous chronicle of the life and work of the most famous woman in the history of science, and the untold story of the many young women trained in her laboratory who were launched into stellar scientific careers of their own

“Even now, nearly a century after her death, Marie Curie remains the only female scientist most people can name,” writes Dava Sobel at the opening of her shining portrait of the sole Nobel laureate decorated in two separate fields of science—Physics in 1903 with her husband Pierre and Chemistry by herself in 1911. And yet, Sobel makes clear, as brilliant and creative as she was in the laboratory, Marie Curie was equally passionate outside it. Grieving Pierre’s untimely death in 1906, she took his place as professor of physics at the Sorbonne; devotedly raised two brilliant daughters; drove a van she outfitted with x-ray equipment to the front lines of World War I; befriended Albert Einstein and other luminaries of twentieth-century physics; won support from two U.S. presidents; and inspired generations of young women the world over to pursue science as a way of life.

As Sobel did so memorably in her portrait of Galileo through the prism of his daughter, she approaches Marie Curie from a unique angle, narrating her remarkable life of discovery and fame alongside the women who became her legacy—from France’s Marguerite Perey, who discovered the element francium, and Norway’s Ellen Gleditsch, to Mme. Curie’s elder daughter, Irène, winner of the 1935 Nobel Prize in Chemistry. For decades the only woman in the room at international scientific gatherings that probed new theories about the interior of the atom, Marie Curie traveled far and wide, despite constant illness, to share the secrets of radioactivity, a term she coined. Her two triumphant tours of the United States won her admirers for her modesty even as she was mobbed at every stop; her daughters, in Ève’s later recollection, “discovered all at once what the retiring woman with whom they had always lived meant to the world.”

With the consummate skill that made bestsellers of Longitude and Galileo’s Daughter, and the appreciation for women in science at the heart of her most recent The Glass Universe, Dava Sobel has crafted a radiant biography and a masterpiece of storytelling, illuminating the life and enduring influence of one of the most consequential figures of our time.

Thanks to Netgalley and Grove Atlantic for this review copy!

This is a captivating and intimate biography that delves into the extraordinary life and groundbreaking work of one of history’s most remarkable scientists. Sobel masterfully weaves together the personal and professional aspects of Marie Curie’s life, painting a vivid portrait of a woman who defied societal norms and shattered scientific barriers. From her humble beginnings in Poland to her pioneering research in radioactivity, the author brings Curie’s story to life. The narrative is enriched by insightful glimpses into Curie’s relationships with her husband, Pierre, and their daughters, Irène and Ève.

At the core of the book is Curie’s revolutionary work in radioactivity, a term she coined herself. The journey of Curie’s early research in a rudimentary laboratory, where she worked under grueling conditions to isolate the elements polonium and radium, are meticulously traced. The descriptions of these experiments are rich with detail, capturing the painstaking hours Curie spent in her lab, enduring physical hardships and pushing through exhaustion. This narrative brings readers into Curie’s world, creating a palpable sense of the dedication and sheer perseverance required for her breakthroughs.

By shedding light on the technical side of Curie’s experiments without overwhelming readers with scientific jargon, the author offers explanations that enhance appreciation for Curie’s achievements. The descriptions of her methods feel immersive, as the complex process of isolating radioactive elements is unfolded. This is no simple feat, as Curie’s work was not only groundbreaking but also extremely dangerous—a fact underscored by the illnesses she suffered due to prolonged exposure to radioactive materials. Sobel manages to convey the gravity of her work’s risks while celebrating the intellectual bravery it took to push forward despite them.

Sobel also brings a deep sense of humanity to Curie’s life, exploring her personal struggles, sacrifices, and the remarkable resilience that defined her journey. Curie’s relationship with her husband and scientific partner, Pierre Curie, is depicted as a profound intellectual and emotional partnership. The love they shared fueled their collaborative research, making the story of Pierre’s untimely death a particularly moving part of the book. Curie fell into a profound depression, yet she emerged from grief to continue their shared mission, a testament to her strength and unwavering commitment to science.

Another repercussion of Pierre’s death was the profound isolation she faced, not only because of her grief but also due to the societal and professional scrutiny that came with being a woman in a male-dominated field. The author doesn’t shy away from addressing the scandal that followed Curie’s affair with a married colleague, a controversy that jeopardized her career and subjected her to intense public scrutiny. This part of Curie’s story reveals the depth of her resilience, as she endured personal attacks yet continued to work tirelessly, eventually earning her second Nobel Prize in Chemistry.

One of the book’s strengths is its detailed descriptions of Curie’s interactions with contemporaries like Albert Einstein and other influential scientists. Sobel enriches Curie’s narrative by situating her within a broader network of scientific minds, highlighting both collaborations and tensions in a field dominated by male figures. This perspective underscores Curie’s perseverance in claiming her space as a leader in science, culminating in her dual Nobel Prizes in both physics and chemistry.

Every chapter emphasizes the challenges Curie faced as a woman in science. Despite her unprecedented accomplishments, Curie encountered persistent gender discrimination from the scientific community, which is illustrated with well-documented examples. Curie’s exclusion from the French Academy of Sciences, despite her Nobel Prize, highlights the professional obstacles she faced purely because of her gender. Sobel uses these incidents to underscore the broader struggle for female scientists of Curie’s time, illustrating just how revolutionary her achievements were in a field that constantly attempted to undermine her.

Curie’s resilience in the face of this discrimination is portrayed as one of her defining traits. Instead of retreating, she worked harder, carving a path for future generations of women scientists.

Curie’s work lived on through her children, particularly her daughter Irène Joliot-Curie, who followed in her mother’s footsteps to become a Nobel Prize-winning chemist. Through this exploration of Curie’s legacy, the author illustrates how Curie’s life was not only a personal journey but also one that inspired and empowered others, especially women, to enter the scientific world.

Curie’s journey is relatable and inspiring. Readers will find a figure who, despite societal limitations and personal loss, pursued her passion with unwavering dedication, emerging as a role model for aspiring scientists everywhere. Her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring scientists, particularly women, who may face similar challenges in their own careers. In THE ELEMENTS OF MARIE CURIE, Dava Sobel offers a multi-dimensional portrait of a woman who was both a scientific genius and a resilient human being. Through careful research and empathetic storytelling, Sobel brings Curie’s journey to life, highlighting her contributions to science and her challenges as a woman in a restrictive society.

For anyone interested in the history of science, feminism, or simply an inspiring story of human strength, this is a compelling read and a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the history of science and the lives of pioneering scientists. Sobel’s ability to present the scientist’s life in a way that is both educational and deeply moving makes this biography a standout addition to the literature on Curie. The book captures the depth of her humanity, reminding readers that behind every great scientific breakthrough is a person with dreams, struggles, and an unyielding will to make a difference.

Want your own copy? You can pick it up here.

HIROSHIMA – THE LAST WITNESSES by M.G. Sheftall

January 28, 2025 / aylah234@hotmail.com / 0 Comments

The first volume in a two-book series about each of the atomic bomb drops that ended the Pacific War based on years of irreplicable personal interviews with survivors to tell a story of devastation and resilience

In this vividly rendered historical narrative, M. G. Sheftall layers the stories of hibakusha—the Japanese word for atomic bomb survivors—in harrowing detail, to give a minute-by-minute report of August 6, 1945, in the leadup and aftermath of the world-changing bombing mission of Paul Tibbets, Enola Gay, and Little Boy. These survivors and witnesses, who now have an average age over ninety years old, are quite literally the last people who can still provide us with reliable and detailed testimony about life in their cities before the bombings, tell us what they experienced on the day those cities were obliterated, and give us some appreciation of what it has entailed to live with those memories and scars during the subsequent seventy-plus years.

Sheftall has spent years personally interviewing survivors who lived well into the twenty-first century, allowing him to construct portraits of what Hiroshima was like before the bomb, and how catastrophically its citizens’ lives changed in the seconds, minutes, days, weeks, months, and years afterward. He stands out among historians due to his fluency in spoken and written Japanese, and his longtime immersion in Japanese society that has allowed him, a white American, the unheard-of access to these atomic bomb survivors in the waning years of their lives. Their trust in him is evident in the personal and traumatic depths they open up for him as he records their stories.

Hiroshima should be required reading for the modern age. The personal accounts it contains will serve as cautionary tales about the horror and insanity of nuclear warfare, reminding them—it is hoped—that the world still lives with this danger at our doorstep.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this review copy!

M.G. Sheftall’s HIROSHIMA offers a riveting and compassionate account of one of the 20^th century’s most significant, devastating, and tragic events: the atomic bombing of Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. By meticulously blending historical research with the intimate testimonies of survivors, the book offers a harrowing and unforgettable account of the devastation, suffering, and resilience of the Japanese people.

The book delves deep into the firsthand experiences of the hibakusha, the survivors of the atomic bomb. Their stories are raw and unfiltered, offering a visceral glimpse into the horrors they endured. From the initial flash of light and the deafening blast to the long-term effects of radiation sickness, Sheftall captures the physical and psychological toll of the catastrophe.

“Survivors guilt” was legion. Sixteen-year-old hibakusha were ashamed of the fact of their own survival when almost all of their classmates were killed. This shame shadowed them their whole lives, even permeating the unveiling of a Hiroshima memorial on August 6^th, 1948. Bereaved parents shot hateful looks at those who had dared to live, even confronting them to ask, “Why are you alive, when my daughter is dead?” Survivors were also ashamed that they did not die as a martyr for the Imperial Empire.

Sheftall’s writing is compassionate, informative, professionally researched and meticulously crafted. He provides historical context while also allowing the survivors’ voices to take center stage, leaving a lasting impression on readers.

The strength of Sheftall’s work lies in its deep exploration of the human experience in the face of incomprehensible destruction. The narrative weaves together first-hand accounts from hibakusha, ordinary citizens, and military personnel, showing how the bomb shattered lives, cultures, and the human psyche. Sheftall demonstrates not only the immediate impact of the bomb but also its lasting effects on individuals, their communities, and even the identity of Japan as a nation.

The Japanese mindset before and during wartime was one of brainwashing and stoicism. To die for the cause and support of the Emperor and Imperialism was ingrained in every boy and girl, starting as soon as they were able to walk and talk. The collective was greater than the individual, and this was accepted without a second thought. During WW2, both boys and girls were part of the war machine, grinding away day and night. As the boys were being educated on kamikaze training, the girls were working in factories recycling worn uniforms (stitching up bullet holes and washing blood out) so they could be worn again by more hapless but devoted soldiers) or sent to the Japan Steel munitions plant to help create ordnance. Bear in mind, these poor souls were barely teenagers – working in a factory setting that was both rigorous and dangerous. The girls considered too immature to endure the demands of factory labor were required to perform unskilled volunteer jobs such as farm work, participating in scrap metal drives, digging trenches, or working at firebreak sites. These tasks were just as dangerous as factory work. However, the hive mind kept all the girls moving forward without a second thought as to personal injury or worse, introspection (questioning why all this backbreaking labor had to be done, or wishing for a simple life spent giggling with friends or having free time).

Sheftall avoids sensationalism and instead focuses on the individual stories of the survivors. We learn about their hopes, dreams, and aspirations before the bombing, then feel their fear, shock, and suffering in the immediate days after the bombing. Finally, we realize the challenges they faced in rebuilding their lives afterward. The book is a powerful reminder that behind every statistic is a human being with a unique story to tell.

Sheftall also explores the far-reaching social and geopolitical implications of the atomic bombing, explaining the political and military factors that led to the bombing, without losing sight of the human toll. He examines the Japanese government’s response to the disaster, the international reaction, and the long-term effects of radiation on the environment and public health. He also raises important questions about the ethics of nuclear weapons and the dangers of nuclear proliferation.

While HIROSHIMA is a powerful and necessary read, some readers might find the detailed historical and military analysis at times overwhelming. However, this does not detract from the overall impact of the book. It enriches the reader’s understanding of the broader context in which the bombing took place, contributing to a more nuanced comprehension of the event.

M.G. Sheftall’s writing is inspired by a deep fascination with Japanese culture and history, particularly with the events surrounding World War II and the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. As a long-time resident of Japan and a scholar specializing in Japanese history and society, Sheftall’s interest grew from personal encounters with the stories of the hibakusha. Their experiences, combined with the overarching impact of the atomic bomb on Japanese society, motivated him to give voice to the survivors’ stories in a way that blends historical context with personal narratives. Sheftall’s writing is empathetic and precise, capturing the profound human impact while maintaining scholarly rigor.

The author has previously explored the human dimensions of war, as seen in his earlier work, BLOSSOMS IN THE WIND, where he examined the experiences of Japanese kamikaze pilots. His continued exploration of the human cost of war is a driving force behind HIROSHIMA. Sheftall was inspired not just by a desire to document history, but also to foster empathy and understanding by illuminating the personal suffering that often gets lost in larger historical narratives. By focusing on individual experiences, Sheftall seeks to convey the full scope of the tragedy and its long-lasting impact on both individuals and society at large.

Hiroshima is remembered as one of the most devastating events in human history, symbolizing the horrors of nuclear warfare and the profound suffering caused by the atomic bomb dropped on August 6, 1945. Its memory is preserved in numerous ways, each reflecting different aspects of the tragedy and its broader implications.

The city stands as a stark reminder of the destructive power of nuclear weapons. The city’s complete devastation within seconds, resulting in the deaths of an estimated 140,000 people by the end of 1945, makes it a powerful symbol in the global conversation about nuclear disarmament. The memory of Hiroshima fuels ongoing movements advocating for peace and the abolition of nuclear weapons, led by organizations such as the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and global anti-nuclear groups.

Hiroshima is commemorated annually through ceremonies at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, which includes the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome, one of the few structures left standing near the hypocenter of the blast. The park also features the Cenotaph for the A-bomb Victims, and its Flame of Peace will burn until the world is free of nuclear weapons. These physical landmarks serve as enduring reminders of the tragedy and as focal points for reflection and mourning.

The bombing of Hiroshima is remembered through various forms of art, literature, film, and music. Books such as John Hersey’s HIROSHIMA and later works, including M.G. Sheftall’s own contributions, help to ensure the event is documented and understood by future generations. Films like Grave of the Fireflies and Barefoot Gen portray the emotional and human cost of the bombing.

Every year, on August 6, Hiroshima holds a solemn Peace Memorial Ceremony. The event includes a moment of silence at 8:15 AM, the exact time the bomb was dropped. The ceremony draws attendees from around the world and serves as a global moment of reflection on the consequences of nuclear warfare, aiming to renew commitments to peace.

The 2024 Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to Nihon Hidankyo (The Japanese Confederation of A- and H-Bomb Sufferers Organization). This underscores both the call to peace and continuing to remember those whose lives were forever changed by this unspeakable tragedy.

In all these ways, Hiroshima is remembered as a tragedy that transformed the global understanding of warfare, leaving a legacy that continues to shape both personal and collective memory. It is a call to never forget the consequences of nuclear weapons and to work toward a world where such destruction is never repeated.

This book is a poignant and essential contribution to the literature of World War II, as well as a testament to the human spirit and the power of resilience, even in the face of unimaginable suffering. The book offers a respectful reminder of the horrors of nuclear warfare, and it compels readers to reflect on the far-reaching consequences of violence and war. Sheftall’s skillful blend of historical narrative and personal testimonies makes this book a must-read for anyone interested in history, ethics, and the profound impact of war on humanity. It is also an imperative for historians, students, and anyone seeking to understand the true cost of conflict.

Want your own copy? You can pick it up here.

GRAY MATTERS by Theodore H. Schwartz

December 17, 2024 / aylah234@hotmail.com / 0 Comments

We’ve all heard the phrase “it’s not brain surgery.” But what exactly is brain surgery? It’s a profession that is barely a hundred years old and profoundly connects two human beings, but few know how it works, or its history. How did early neurosurgeons come to understand the human brain—an extraordinarily complex organ that controls everything we do, and yet at only three pounds is so fragile? And how did this incredibly challenging and lifesaving specialty emerge?

In this warm, rigorous, and deeply insightful book, Dr. Theodore H. Schwartz explores what it’s like to hold the scalpel, wield the drill, extract a tumor, fix a bullet hole, and remove a blood clot—when every second can mean life or death. Drawing from the author’s own cases, plus media, sports, and government archives, this seminal work delves into all the brain-related topics that have long-consumed public curiosity, like what really happened to JFK, President Biden’s brain surgery, and the NFL’s management of CTE. Dr. Schwartz also surveys the field’s latest incredible advances and discusses the philosophical questions of the unity of the self and the existence of free will.

A neurosurgeon as well as a professor of neurosurgery at Weill Cornell Medicine, one of the busiest and most highly ranked neurosurgery centers in the world, Dr. Schwartz tells this story like no one else could. Told through anecdote and clear explanation, this is the ultimate cultural and scientific history of a literally mind-blowing human endeavor, one that cuts to the core of who we are.

Thanks to NetGalley the author, and Dutton for this review copy!

GRAY MATTERS is a fascinating exploration of the brain’s potential, expertly balancing scientific insight with philosophical contemplation. As a practicing neurosurgeon, Schwartz has a unique vantage point into the wonders and mysteries of the human brain, which he translates into an engaging and accessible narrative. The book dives deep into the gray matter—the seat of human cognition, emotion, and identity—and asks profound questions about the nature of consciousness, technology’s impact on the brain, and the future of neuroscience.

One of the strengths of this book is its ability to make complex medical concepts accessible to a general audience. Schwartz explains the anatomy and physiology of the brain in clear and concise terms, making it easy for readers to follow along. He also delves into the history of neurosurgery, tracing the evolution of the field from ancient times to the present day.

Through his writing, the author conveys a deep sense of empathy and compassion for his patients and their families.

Some of the cases he describes are:

The Musician’s Tumor: Schwartz recounts the case of a professional violinist who had a brain tumor. The surgery was particularly challenging because it was crucial to preserve the patient’s fine motor skills and musical abilities. During the operation, the patient was kept awake and played the violin, allowing Schwartz to ensure that the areas of the brain responsible for these skills were not damaged.
The Young Athlete: Another compelling case involves a young athlete who suffered a severe head injury. Schwartz describes the delicate process of removing a blood clot from the brain and the subsequent rehabilitation that allowed the patient to return to sports. This case highlights the resilience of the human brain and the importance of timely medical intervention.
The Phantom Limb: Schwartz also delves into the phenomenon of phantom limb pain through the story of a patient who experienced severe pain in a limb that had been amputated. The case explores the brain’s complex relationship with the body and how neurosurgery can sometimes alleviate such mysterious conditions.
The Epilepsy Patient: One of the most intriguing cases involves a patient with severe epilepsy. Schwartz performed a surgery to remove the part of the brain causing the seizures. The case is notable for the precision required and the dramatic improvement in the patient’s quality of life post-surgery.

The personal stories of patients provide a humanizing touch to the hard science, making it clear that the brain is more than just an organ—it’s the core of who we are as individuals. These stories give weight to the philosophical questions Schwartz raises: How far can we push the boundaries of human cognition? What are the risks of tampering with the essence of humanity? The discussion of the challenges of making life-and-death decisions and the impact of brain injuries on individuals and their families is unsettling and thought-provoking.

In addition to its medical and personal insights, GRAY MATTERS offers a valuable perspective on the future of neurosurgery. Schwartz discusses emerging technologies, such as brain-computer interfaces and gene therapy, and their potential to revolutionize the treatment of brain disorders. He also addresses the ethical concerns that may arise as these technologies become more advanced.

While the book is primarily focused on the medical aspects of neurosurgery, Schwartz also touches on the personal toll that this demanding profession can take on practitioners. His reflections on the emotional challenges of dealing with life-and-death situations provide a valuable perspective on the human side of medicine.

This is an intellectually stimulating read that merges science and philosophy seamlessly. The book is a compelling blend of memoir and textbook and is a highly recommended read for anyone interested in the brain, medicine, or the human condition. However, those looking for a purely philosophical or speculative work might feel that the book is too grounded in clinical reality.

Regardless, Schwartz’s expertise and passion for his field shine through on every page, making this book a fascinating and informative exploration of the complexities of the human mind and the incredible advancements that have been made in the field of neurosurgery.

Want your own copy? You can pick it up here.

THE LIVING MEDICINE: HOW A LIFESAVING CURE WAS NEARLY LOST by Lina Zeldovich

October 22, 2024 / Kyle Wendy Skultety / 0 Comments

The dramatic, tragic, long-suppressed story of a forgotten and life-saving cure, and the scientists who discovered and are now reviving it
First discovered in 1917, bacteriophages—or “phages”—are living viruses that devour bacteria. Ubiquitous in the environment, they are found in water, soil, inside plants and animals, and in the human body. When phages were first recognized as medicines, their promise seemed limitless. Grown by research scientists and physicians in France, the Soviet Union, and elsewhere to target specific bacteria, they cured cholera, dysentery, bubonic plague, and other deadly infectious diseases. But after Stalin’s brutal purges and the rise of antibiotics, phage therapy declined and nearly was lost to history—until today.
In The Living Medicine, acclaimed science journalist Lina Zeldovich reveals the remarkable history of phages, told through the lives of the French, Soviet, and American scientists who discovered, developed, and are reviving this unique cure for seemingly intractable diseases. Ranging from Paris to Soviet Georgia to Egypt, India, South Africa, remote islands in the Far East, and America, The Living Medicine shows how phages once saved tens of thousands of lives. Today, with our antibiotic shield collapsing, Zeldovich demonstrates how phages are making our food safe and, in cases of dire emergency, rescuing people from the brink of death. They may be humanity’s best defense against the pandemics to come.
Filled with adventure, human ambition, tragedy, technology, irrepressible scientists and the excitement of their innovation, The Living Medicine offers a vision of how our future may be saved by knowledge from the past.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this review copy!

Lina Zeldovich’s book, The Living Medicine: How a Lifesaving Cure Was Nearly Lost—and Why It Will Rescue Us When Antibiotics Fail, explores the world of bacteriophages, or phages. These are viruses that specifically infect and kill bacteria, offering a potential solution to the growing crisis of antibiotic resistance.

The book delves into the tumultuous history of phages, from their discovery in 1917 to their near obscurity as antibiotics took center stage in the mid-20th century. Zeldovich explores the reasons behind this shift, including the ease of production, the use of antibiotics compared to phages, and the rise of powerful pharmaceutical companies.

However, with the growing problem of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, phages are re-emerging as a potential weapon in our fight against infectious diseases. The book examines the current research and development efforts around phage therapy, highlighting its potential to combat a wide range of infections.

As antibiotic resistance escalates into a global health crisis, Zeldovich’s work becomes both timely and essential, shedding light on an ancient remedy that may hold the key to our future.

Zeldovich’s storytelling is engaging and accessible, skillfully blending rigorous scientific detail with personal narratives and historical context. She delves into the lives of pioneering scientists who first discovered and utilized phages, such as Félix d’Hérelle and George Eliava, and navigates through the complex socio-political landscapes that influenced their work.

She also provides a detailed account of the geopolitical dynamics that influenced medical research, especially during the Cold War era. In the West, antibiotics became the standard treatment for bacterial infections, leading to the neglect of phage therapy. Meanwhile, in places like Georgia, phage research flourished, resulting in a rich repository of knowledge and experience that has now become invaluable as the world faces the looming crisis of antibiotic resistance.

The author’s ability to weave together historical accounts and scientific explanations makes for a compelling and thought-provoking read. She also adds anecdotes and case studies, illustrating the profound impact of phage therapy on individuals who had exhausted all other medical options. These stories not only humanize the science but also serve as powerful testimonials to the efficacy of phages.

Her personal connection to the topic adds a rich layer to the narrative. Zeldovich draws on her family’s experiences in the Soviet Union, where phage therapy was a common and successful practice. This intimate frame of reference enriches the book, providing a unique perspective on how cultural and political factors shape scientific advancements and healthcare practices.

Zeldovich also explores the innovative research and technological advancements that are propelling phages back into the spotlight. She discusses the potential of genetic engineering to enhance phage efficacy and the promise of personalized medicine tailored to individual patients’ infections. The book builds a compelling argument for why phages should be integrated into the mainstream medical arsenal, especially as the pipeline for new antibiotics dries up. The author also emphasizes the global implications of antibiotic resistance and the need for international collaboration in combating bacterial infections. She highlights how phages offer a ray of hope not only for wealthy nations grappling with antibiotic resistance but also for low-resource settings where access to antibiotics is limited.

Strengths:

THE LIVING MEDICINE tackles a critical issue in public health: antibiotic resistance. As antibiotics become less effective, phages offer a promising alternative. The book also provides a historical perspective on phage therapy, explaining its decline and resurgence.

The narrative is enriched with vivid descriptions and compelling characters, from passionate scientists to desperate patients, which keeps the reader invested throughout.

Concerns:

The book focuses heavily on the potential of phages, with less exploration of the current challenges in bringing phage therapy to mainstream medicine. While the book avoids overly technical jargon, there are sections that might be challenging for readers unfamiliar with scientific concepts. At times, the story jumps from one focus to another, making it sometimes hard to follow the narrative.

While THE LIVING MEDICINE is largely an optimistic account of phages’ potential, Zeldovich does not shy away from discussing the challenges. She addresses the regulatory hurdles, the need for rigorous clinical trials, and the skepticism within the medical community. However, some readers may find the book’s enthusiasm for phages occasionally overshadows these critical perspectives.

This book is a well-researched and informative book that sheds light on a promising area of medical research. It offers a compelling look at phages and their potential to revolutionize how we treat infectious diseases. It is important to note that phage therapy is still in its preliminary stages of development, and more research is needed to determine its efficacy and safety for widespread use. The book does seem to be grounded in scientific research, making the potential of phage therapy seem authentic. To me, it seems like it was written with a scientific background in mind. To that end, this book is highly recommended for medical professionals, microbiologists, and anyone interested in the evolving landscape of healthcare. It also serves as a valuable resource for policy makers and educators looking to understand and address the challenges posed by antibiotic resistance. Zeldovich’s work serves as both a wakeup call and a beacon of hope. This book not only informs but also inspires, making a compelling case for the revival of phage therapy in modern medicine.

Want your own copy? You can pick it up here.

AN ARTIST AMONG THE WIND HORSES OF MONGOLIA by Erika Connor

May 14, 2024 / Kyle Wendy Skultety / 0 Comments

An artist visits Hustai National Park in Mongolia and takes part in the reintroduction project of the wild Przewalski horses, or Wind Horses as they are known by Mongolians. A reflection on the story of humans and horses in the wilderness, illustrated with 36 original colour paintings. Searching for her place in the world, she finds company with wild horses and explores the interplay between the herd and the lone wolf.
“I slipped across the grasses, becoming one with the trees and rocks. Sometimes, they passed so close I could have reached out my hand to skim their hides, the ribs, the last of their tattered winter coats.”
“It was natural then that I’d made my way here, having been affected and altered by horses throughout my life.”
An excerpt of this work was published in Travelers’ The Best Travel Writing 2009, under the title, “In a Place of Wind”.

Thanks to Library Thing and Petra Books for this review copy!

Erika Connor’s “An Artist Among the Wind Horses of Mongolia” is more than just a travelogue; it’s a captivating immersion into the Mongolian wilderness and the cultural reverence for the wild Przewalski horse. The “Wind Horses,” as they are called by the locals, are the focus of both Connor’s artistic journey and the reintroduction project she participates in at Hustai National Park.

The Wind Horse is a Buddhist concept depicting the soul. A winged horse with a flaming jewel on its back is seen on Tibetan prayer flags flying in the wind from the highest mountain tops. It is also portrayed on the Mongolian coat of arms. The Mongolians have a word, khiimori. that is difficult to translate, but it is said to represent the Wind Horse and embodies the human soul, a life force.

The book follows Connor’s firsthand experience volunteering with the Wind Horses in Hustai National Park. Connor’s narrative is rich with vivid descriptions, transporting the reader to the vast grasslands and under the boundless Mongolian sky. You’ll feel the wind whipping through your hair, sense the sun warming your skin, and smell the earthy scent of the steppe as you journey alongside her. Readers with a passion for art will find Connor’s experience particularly engaging. She details her artistic process as she attempts to capture the essence of the wild horses and the nomadic culture surrounding them.

I had been here on the edge of unknown for three days now, on the shoreline of fifty thousand hectares of steppeland.

…a raven swooped by on my right, so close I could see the gloss of his blue-black feathers and the glint of his eye. What came back to me again and again was the gaze of animals. In that gaze was the wordless kinship with the original life source. It seemed observer and observed were the same.

The winds yanked the handle of the painted door out of my hands and I stumbled out of my ger, hitting my head on the doorframe. I wondered if there was a Mongolian saying about starting your day like this.

There was always the feeling of odyssey before getting on a horse, a suspension of time and certainty, lifting the feet, leaving the earth.

Through vivid descriptions and evocative storytelling, readers are introduced to a diverse cast of characters—from nomadic herders to skilled artisans—each contributing to the tapestry of Mongolia’s cultural landscape. This adds another layer to the story, creating a well-rounded picture of the region and its people.

One of the book’s most striking aspects is its exploration of the symbiotic relationship between art and nature. As the author delves deeper into the Mongolian wilderness, she finds inspiration in the untamed beauty of the landscape, channeling its energy into their own creative pursuits. Whether painting the sweeping vistas of the Gobi Desert or capturing the spirit of the wild horses that roam the steppe, the author’s passion for her craft shines through on every page.

But Connor’s true strength lies in capturing the essence of the human-horse connection so deeply ingrained in Mongolian culture. She weaves together personal anecdotes with insights into the nomadic way of life, where horses are not just companions, but vital partners in survival.

Moreover, “An Artist Among the Wind Horses of Mongolia” offers profound insights into the enduring spirit of the Mongolian people. Through encounters with local communities and intimate conversations with herders, the author uncovers the resilience and resourcefulness that define Mongolian culture. From the warmth of traditional hospitality to the profound reverence for nature, readers gain a deeper appreciation for the values that unite this ancient civilization.

The book is beautifully complemented by Connor’s original paintings (36 in total), which bring the landscape and the wild horses to life. These illustrations aren’t mere decorations; they serve as an extension of the narrative, offering a visual window into the soul of the Mongolian wilderness.

Thoughts:

While not explicitly mentioned, it seems the book would be best enjoyed by those with an interest in conservation efforts. Connor’s involvement in the Przewalski horse reintroduction project adds a layer of purpose to the narrative. However, the book is heavily weighted towards the artistic side of the project, with detailed descriptions of the landscape and the horses themselves. Readers seeking a more scientific approach to the reintroduction project might want to look elsewhere.

Since the book includes illustrations, it might be more enjoyable in a physical format to fully appreciate the artwork alongside the text.

“An Artist Among the Wind Horses of Mongolia” is a perfect read for anyone who loves a good travelogue, has a passion for horses, or simply appreciates a well-written story about nature and cultural connection. It’s a testament to the power of art to bridge cultures and inspire a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

Want your own copy? You can pick it up here.

SAY ANARCHA by J.C. Hallman

August 29, 2023 / Kyle Wendy Skultety / 0 Comments

A compelling reckoning with the birth of women’s health that illuminates the sacrifices of a young woman who changed the world only to be forgotten by it―until now.

For more than a century, Dr. J. Marion Sims was hailed as the “father of modern gynecology.” He founded a hospital in New York City and had a profitable career treating gentry and royalty in Europe, becoming one of the world’s first celebrity surgeons. Statues were built in his honor, but he wasn’t the hero he had made himself appear to be.
Sims’s greatest medical claim was the result of several years of experimental surgeries―without anesthesia―on a young, enslaved woman known as Anarcha; his so-called cure for obstetric fistula forever altered the path of women’s health.
One medical text after another hailed Anarcha as the embodiment of the pivotal role that Sims played in the history of surgery. Decades later, a groundswell of women objecting to Sims’s legacy celebrated Anarcha as the “mother of gynecology.” Little was known about the woman herself. The written record would have us believe Anarcha disappeared; she did not.

Through tenacious research, J. C. Hallman has unearthed the first evidence of Anarcha’s life that did not come from Sims’s suspect reports. Hallman reveals that after helping to spark a patient-centered model of care that continues to improve women’s lives today, Anarcha lived on as a midwife, nurse, and “doctor woman.”
SAY ANARCHA excavates history, deconstructing the biographical smoke screen of a surgeon who has falsely been enshrined as a medical pioneer and bringing forth a heroic Black woman to her rightful place at the center of the creation story of modern women’s health care.

Thanks to NetGalley and Henry Holt Company for this review copy!

SAY ANARCHA by JC Hallman is a remarkable work that transports readers to the haunting realities of 19th-century America, where the harrowing echoes of enslaved African American women’s lives reverberate through time. This powerful novel delves deep into the forgotten pages of history, weaving a compelling narrative that is as heart-wrenching as it is enlightening.

The story revolves around Anarcha, one of the countless enslaved women subjected to Dr. Marion Sims’ inhumane medical experiments in his quest to perfect the technique of gynecological surgery. a white doctor who is often credited with the invention of modern gynecology.

Drawing inspiration from historical events, the author masterfully combines fact and fiction, bringing the agonizing experiences of Anarcha and her fellow enslaved women to life with vivid prose. Hallman’s writing effortlessly transports readers to the 19th-century Southern United States, immersing them in a world of suffering and hope. This strength was also a weakness to me, as I felt bogged down by all the history. At one point I decided to start skipping over the incredible details and concentrate on Anarcha and the other major characters. These are my thoughts; others may welcome history as a refresher, or as new knowledge.

The book begins with a brief overview of Sims’s life and work. Sims was a brilliant surgeon, but he was also a deeply flawed man who was willing to exploit the most vulnerable members of society in his quest for medical knowledge. In 1846, Sims began performing experimental surgeries on Anarcha, who had suffered a severe vesicovaginal fistula, a condition that causes urine to leak into the vagina. Sims performed these surgeries without anesthesia, and Anarcha endured unimaginable pain and suffering. She eventually died from complications from all her surgeries.

The book is divided into two parts. The first part tells the story of Anarcha’s life, from her childhood in slavery to her years of suffering at the hands of Sims. The second part tells the story of Sims’ rise to fame as the “Father of Gynecology.” Sims’ innovations were built upon the suffering and exploitation of Anarcha and other enslaved women. Hallman weaves a vivid tapestry of historical accounts, immersing readers in the cruel reality faced by Anarcha and countless others, while shedding light on the often-neglected narratives of African American women in history.

Hallman’s book does not shy away from the horrors of Anarcha’s story. He describes in detail the surgeries that Sims performed on her, and he also explores the psychological and emotional toll that these surgeries took on Anarcha. However, Hallman also does a masterful job of humanizing Anarcha. He shows us that she was a complex and resilient woman who was determined to survive and thrive, even in the face of unspeakable cruelty. Despite the horrific abuse she suffered, Anarcha never gave up hope. She continued to fight for her freedom, and she eventually won her release from slavery.

One of the book’s strengths is the author’s ability to blend history with imagination, breathing life into Anarcha and the other characters surrounding her. Hallman’s meticulous research is evident, as he brings to light the horrors of slavery and the atrocities committed in the name of medical progress.

The novel also explores the perspectives of those around Anarcha, including Dr. Sims himself. This multi-dimensional approach adds depth to the narrative, forcing readers to confront the uncomfortable truths about the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by those complicit in perpetuating the system of slavery. The portrayal of Dr. Sims is particularly nuanced, exploring the complexity of his character as both a pioneering surgeon and a morally flawed individual. For all his knowledge, he was extremely self-centered and didn’t even care about women’s health as he was going through medical school! I feel that he did everything solely to make his name known, not out of compassion.

“Say Anarcha” may not be for the faint of heart due to its graphic descriptions of medical procedures and the harsh realities of slavery. Readers should be prepared for an emotionally intense journey that forces them to confront the uncomfortable truths of history.

Want your own copy? You can pick it up here.

RANDOM ACTS OF MEDICINE by Anupam B. Jena & Christopher Worsham

August 15, 2023 / Kyle Wendy Skultety / 0 Comments

A groundbreaking book at the intersection of health and economics, revealing the hidden side of medicine and how unexpected—but predictable—events can profoundly affect our health. Why do kids born in the summer get diagnosed more often with A.D.H.D.? How are marathons harmful for your health, even when you’re not running? What do surgeons and salesmen have in common? Which annual event made people 30 percent more likely to get COVID-19?
As a University of Chicago–trained economist and Harvard medical school professor and doctor, Anupam Jena is uniquely equipped to answer these questions. And as a critical care doctor at Massachusetts General who researches health care policy, Christopher Worsham confronts their impact on the hospital’s sickest patients. In this singular work of science and medicine, Jena and Worsham show us how medicine really works, and its effect on all of us.

Relying on ingeniously devised natural experiments—random events that unknowingly turn us into experimental subjects—Jena and Worsham do more than offer readers colorful stories. They help us see the way our health is shaped by forces invisible to the untrained eye. Is there ever a good time to have a heart attack? Do you choose the veteran doctor or the rookie?  Do you really need the surgery your doctor recommends? These questions are rife with significance; their impact can be life changing. Addressing them in a style that’s both animated and enlightening, Random Acts of Medicine empowers you to see past the white coat and find out what really makes medicine work—and how it could work better.

Thanks to Doubleday Books for this review copy! Authors Anupam B. Jena and Christopher Worsham have collaborated on a fascinating and eye-opening book at the intersection of health and economics. The book explores the surprising and often counterintuitive ways that medicine works. The authors, both doctors and researchers at Harvard Medical School, use natural experiments—random events that create natural comparisons among people—to reveal the hidden factors that influence our health outcomes.

Jena and Worsham look at medicine from a few different angles, including the role of chance and luck, the power of natural experiments, and the future of healthcare. Jena and Worsham do an excellent job of explaining complex concepts in a way that is easy to understand.

The book is divided into three parts: “The Hidden Side of Medicine,” “The Power of Natural Experiments,” and “The Future of Medicine.” In the first part, Jena and Worsham explore the ways in which chance and luck play a role in our health. They discuss how our birthdate, our zip code, and even our name can all influence our health outcomes.

In the second part of the book, Jena and Worsham introduce the concept of natural experiments. Natural experiments are events that happen outside of a doctor’s control, but which can be used to learn about the effects of different medical treatments or interventions. For example, Jena and Worsham discuss how the introduction of a new drug can be used to study the effects of that drug on a population of patients.

In the third part of the book, Jena and Worsham look at the future of medicine. They discuss how the rise of big data and artificial intelligence is changing the way we understand and treat disease. They also discuss the challenges that we face in making sure that everyone has access to high-quality healthcare.

For example, they show how kids born in the summer are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD, how marathons can harm your health even if you don’t run, how surgeons and salesmen have similar incentives, and how an annual event made people 30 percent more likely to get COVID-19. The book is full of intriguing stories and insights that challenge our assumptions and make us think differently about medicine and health care.

The book is also written in a clear and engaging style that makes it accessible and enjoyable for anyone interested in learning more about the science and economics of medicine. The authors combine rigorous research with personal anecdotes and humor to illustrate their points and keep the reader hooked. They also offer practical advice on how to make better decisions for ourselves and our loved ones when it comes to our health. One caveat: I felt the book was a bit long. I think it could have been shorter without losing any of the valuable information.

Random Acts of Medicine is an informative read for anyone who wants to understand how medicine really works, and how it could work better. It will make you smarter, healthier, and more informed about one of the most important aspects of our lives. I recommend it to anyone who is interested in learning more about the hidden side of medicine, the power of natural experiments, and the future of healthcare.

Want your own copy? You can pick it up here.

THE TRAUMA OF CAPTIVITY by Julie Cook

July 25, 2023 / Kyle Wendy Skultety / 0 Comments

The Trauma of Captivity seeks to shed new light on a forgotten aspect of what it meant to be a prisoner of war: their homecoming. With primary source archive content and interviews with family members of prisoners of war from the Second World War, as well as the diary entries of a prisoner of war from the First World War, this book asks the question: what happened to prisoners of war when they returned home?

Sons and daughters of returned prisoners of war share their harrowing stories of having a POW for a parent. The Trauma of Captivity also features a lengthy interview with modern-day prisoner of war John Peters, the RAF fast jet pilot who was captured when his Tornado plane crashed in the desert during the Gulf War.

The Trauma of Captivity focuses on what help and support was made available to returning prisoners of war and how they fought to rediscover their roles in society.

Thanks to NetGalley and Pen & Sword Publishing for this review copy!

THE TRAUMA OF CAPTIVITY is a deeply thought-provoking and emotionally charged exploration of the psychological and emotional consequences of captivity. Written with remarkable insight and sensitivity, author Julie Cook delves into the harrowing experiences of prisoners of war (POWs) who have endured captivity in various contexts, shedding light on the lasting trauma they bear long after their physical freedom has been restored.

This book shows the profound impact that captivity has on the human psyche. It offers a compelling examination of the complex emotions, cognitive distortions, and adaptive responses that arise from the traumatic experience of being confined against one’s will. For example: One of the effects of imprisonment is social degradation: the prisoner feels as if he is unable to make decisions for himself and he is deprived of the basic needs of life: food, freedom, and pleasure.

A POWs story can evoke sympathy, national pride, and jingoism. Despite the public’s feelings, many working-class soldiers had no help, no financial support, no job or home in place, and were lumped in with “pauper lunatics” and placed in asylums. These men could be committed for displaying anxiety, shell-shock, or turning to alcohol or violence. It took merely a single person’s word to send a man to the asylum.

One of the book’s notable strengths is its emphasis on the psychological aspects of captivity. Cook goes beyond the immediate physical dangers and examines the complex psychological dynamics that emerge during prolonged periods of captivity. She explores the development of coping mechanisms, the erosion of self-identity, and the profound psychological wounds that individuals may carry long after their physical release. Men returning to home postwar were more likely to internalize their emotions, which compounded their mental health problems further.

Her nuanced analysis reveals the intricate interplay between captivity, trauma, and mental health, shedding light on the lasting scars that captivity can inflict on a person’s psyche.

Through extensive research, and interviews with the families of POWs, the author portrays the intricate web of emotions such as fear, helplessness, anger, and shame that often accompany the experience of captivity. Returning POWs who did seek out therapy were denigrated for their “weak” mental state, being told by doctors that their shell-shock was because there was evidence of weakness or instability in their nervous system. Is it any wonder that these men were not afforded the help they needed? After succumbing to the will of the enemy, their home country dismissed them as broken mentally even before they became soldiers.

By delving into these layers, the book offers a nuanced understanding of the psychological toll captivity takes on individuals, making it a valuable resource for both professionals in the field of psychology and general readers seeking insight into the human condition.

This book is not just a catalog of suffering; it is also a testament to human resilience and the potential for recovery. Cook devotes significant attention to the therapeutic interventions, support systems, and resilience factors that can aid in the healing process. She discusses the importance of trauma-informed care, the role of therapy, and the power of community in helping survivors rebuild their lives. Through these narratives of healing and resilience, Cook offers a sense of hope and inspiration, reinforcing the idea that it is possible to find strength and reclaim one’s life even after enduring unimaginable adversity. Through the accounts of survivors, the author illuminates the ways in which they draw strength from their experiences and transform their pain into a catalyst for growth and healing. By doing so, the book instills a sense of hope in the face of unimaginable adversity, offering solace to those who have suffered and inspiration to those seeking to support and understand them.

Cook’s clear writing style and her ability to translate complex concepts into accessible language make the book approachable and informative for both experts and general readers. The author’s prose is accessible and engaging, allowing readers to connect emotionally with the narratives while also appreciating the scholarly foundation upon which the book is built. The chapters are organized in a logical and coherent manner, guiding readers through the complexities of captivity trauma without overwhelming them.

THE TRAUMA OF CAPTIVITY is an exceptional book that serves as an invaluable resource for understanding the profound impact of captivity on the human psyche. By combining rigorous research, insightful analysis, and compelling personal accounts, Cook has crafted a work that deepens our empathy, challenges our preconceptions, and inspires us to create a more compassionate world for survivors of trauma. It serves as a wake-up call to society, urging us to recognize the deep scars that captivity can leave, especially for POWs, and to foster an environment of empathy and support for survivors. This book is an essential read for anyone interested in World War II, psychology, human resilience, and the power of the human spirit to triumph over adversity.

Want your own copy? You can pick it up here.