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- Book Title: When Breath Becomes Air
- Author: Paul Kalanithi
- Year Published: January 12, 2016. (Please note: As When Breath Becomes Air was recently released, its copyright must expire before a legal and free PDF version is available.)
- Goodreads Rating: 4.40/5
- Availability: Buy the PDF from Google Play Books.
After you have purchased When Breath Becomes Air, follow these instructions to download it from Google Play Books in PDF format:
- Click on the "Books" tab at the top of your screen.
- Click on the "Your Library" link beneath that.
- Find your book and click the icon with three dots beneath the cover image.
- Select "Export" and then "Export as PDF".
How to Read When Breath Becomes Air in PDF Format
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Our Review of When Breath Becomes Air
Paul Kalanithi’s "When Breath Becomes Air" is a poignant memoir that chronicles his journey from a neurosurgeon to a patient diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. The book is a deeply moving account that intertwines his professional life with his personal battle against the illness. Kalanithi, with a background in both literature and medicine, offers a unique perspective that makes this memoir not only about dying but also about living and what makes life meaningful.
Kalanithi’s narrative begins with his early days as a medical student, driven by a desire to understand the intricacies of the human brain and the nature of human existence. He takes readers through his rigorous training and the intense demands of being a neurosurgeon. His writing is clear and articulate, capturing the essence of his passion for medicine and his philosophical inquiries into life and death.
What makes "When Breath Becomes Air" stand out is Kalanithi’s ability to merge his medical knowledge with his love for literature. This dual perspective provides a rich context for his reflections on mortality. He quotes literature and philosophy to illustrate his thoughts, making his story both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. Kalanithi's literary prowess adds depth to the memoir, making it more than just a recount of his illness but a profound meditation on what it means to be human.
A particularly compelling aspect of the book is the honesty with which Kalanithi faces his diagnosis. He does not shy away from discussing the fear, uncertainty, and physical decline that come with cancer. Yet, amidst the despair, there is also a sense of hope and an enduring quest for meaning. He reflects on his relationships, his career, and his aspirations, providing readers with an intimate glimpse into his inner life.
"When Breath Becomes Air" is worth reading not only for its emotional impact but also for its philosophical insights. It encourages readers to ponder their own lives, the choices they make, and what they would do if faced with a similar situation. Kalanithi’s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the search for meaning in the face of mortality.
In a world where the inevitability of death often looms in the background, Kalanithi’s memoir brings it to the forefront, inviting readers to engage with the topic in a thoughtful and compassionate way. His eloquent writing and profound reflections ensure that this book will leave a lasting impression, making it a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the delicate balance between life and death.
