Book review: When Breath Becomes Air

“When Breath Becomes Air” is a poignant and heart-wrenching memoir by the late Dr. Paul Kalanithi, a brilliant neurosurgeon who wrote the book in the final months of his life after being diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer. As a gifted surgeon who had impacted the lives of many, he suddenly found himself facing death’s doorstep, unable to carry out his dreams and ambitions.

Born to Indian immigrant parents along with two brothers, Paul excelled in every aspect of his life. He was passionate about literature and believed that language was not just a means of communication but also a way to experience life. He pursued literature at Stanford University but was intellectually curious and always seeking answers about the intersection of biology, morality, literature, and philosophy.

Eventually, he chose to become a neurosurgeon and embarked on a fulfilling career until cancer stripped him of everything he held dear. With limited energy and time, he decided to write this book to share his experiences as a doctor, son, husband, and father to his newborn daughter, who he knew would not remember him.

The book beautifully captures the weight of an incurable illness and the immense impact it has on those close to the person suffering. As a reader, you can’t help but feel for his wife, parents, and daughter, who would only know him through the memories of others. Despite the medical jargon and surgical procedures in the book, the writing feels light and emotionally resonant.

“When Breath Becomes Air” teaches us to cherish life, be grateful for every breath we take, and love and cherish those who love us. While the book is about death, it teaches us how to live. As a reader, you are left questioning the fragility of life and feeling grateful for the opportunity to live fully.

In summary, the message of the book is simple: when you come to a moment in life when you must account for yourself, do not discount the impact you have had on others. For Paul, the joy he found in his final days came from the love of his family and friends, and that was an enormous thing. “When Breath Becomes Air” is a beautifully poignant read that will move you to tears.