When Breath Becomes Air
Paul Kalanithi
16 people recommended it in 13 threads, 2016–2020.
What people on Hacker News said
Haunting, beautiful, moving and perfect. Life is surprising and we can’t legislate for the things that are thrust upon us.
memories of a neurosurgeon battling cancer. Very insightful and important read about dying. In a way it's a heavy book, I cried multiple times when reading it.
it's a memoir of a neurologist who comes across lung cancer himself and how his life changes from being a doctor to the patient. I recently finished reading it and let me tell you, I had to pause every other page to reflect upon those words as they were surreal.
Story about the meaning of life. Not sure how anyone can go through this and not cry. (First book I've ever cried reading)
Difficult topic but great writing so far. Especially if you like books by Atul Gawande
Where it comes up
- Ask HN: Books you read in 2016? 2016 · 4 recommendations
- Ask HN: What is the best book you read in 2020? 2020 · 1 recommendation
- Ask HN: What are your favorite non-fiction books of all time? 2018 · 1 recommendation
- Ask HN: 2018 Summer Reading List? 2018 · 1 recommendation
- Ask HN: Which books have made you introspect? 2018 · 1 recommendation
- Ask HN: What is the best book you read on 2017? 2017 · 1 recommendation
- Ask HN: Books you read in 2017? 2017 · 1 recommendation
- Ask HN: Best books you read in 2017? 2017 · 1 recommendation
- Ask HN: What books are you reading? 2017 · 1 recommendation
- YC's Winter Reading List 2016 · 1 recommendation
- Ask HN: What book did you read in 2016 that was so good you gifted it to others? 2016 · 1 recommendation
- Ask HN: What book have you given as a gift? 2016 · 1 recommendation
- Ask HN: Book Recommendations? 2016 · 1 recommendation