Compelling science writing, but I was left wanting more of the personal reflections, particularly about how being a physician shapes the experience of being a patient.

Though the book has quite some interesting insights, such as explanations of how both our bodies and the healthcare system works, I had a hard time to focus just on that (positive) note. Nearly every chapter, while discussing different body parts, also includes detailed descriptions of surgeries, that was somewhat too outrageous to me.

The books begins with the author being part of an autopsy procedure at a morgue. She describes the different instruments, what type of scalpel they use to cut through different tissues, when to apply rib shears, and how to remove intestines. The storytelling is very casual, at some point she compares the tray of instruments with the breakfast tray at her grandmothers place, or an oscillating saw with a pizza cutter. As someone without a proper medical background, it was so bizarre. They were cutting into a woman’s body, after all… So, I didn’t expect that level of detail, but I thought - okay, maybe this is a weird intro to the book. Well, I was wrong. In the latter chapters you can also learn about sex change surgery, Cesarian section, and many other procedures, some of which I found too intense to read thoroughly and decided to keep some parts as a mystery for myself.

Nevertheless, I have to say that the storytelling in this book is very engaging, personal input makes a big difference compared to a usual science book, however I do think that it should have had a clearer disclaimer on what exactly ‘alternative’ anatomy means. A typical reader like myself might expect a more theoretical discussion on how body parts function, but this is definitely not that kind of book.

An interesting read which takes us on a journey through the human body. The author presents the anatomy of our remarkable bodies in a thought provoking and reflective way. Drawing on science as well as her own experiences the book was moving at times. I enjoyed it.

This book marries medical inquiry with medical humanities in a personal manner. Using professional anecdotes, observed clinical experiences, personal experience, and explorations of the world of art and expression, Dr. Weston writes a in depth expose and vivisection of our humanity. It was a gift and delight to be able to read about the anatomical, physiological, and clinical responsibilities of many of the organs of our bodies, in a way that made my medical school curriculum come together. But strung along with it are examples from a life well lived by herself and others, to speak to the richness of human experience, emotion, and resilience. I truly enjoyed with book and recommend it as a lovely read for all healthcare providers to marry medical humanities seamlessly into clinical practice.

My thanks to NetGalley, Godine, and the author for allowing me to read this book in exchange for a fair and honest review!

"Alive" is a thought-provoking exploration of the medical system, viewed through both professional and personal lenses. Weston offers us a heartfelt and intimate look at her experiences as a healthcare provider, the mother of a patient, and eventually, as a patient herself. This blend of factual analysis and deeply emotional reflection creates a nuanced narrative about what it means to exist in a body — both physically and emotionally.

The book is rich in insights and opened my eyes to many aspects of healthcare that I hadn't fully considered before. Weston’s writing is beautiful, and she effortlessly weaves together her own story with larger societal issues, making the personal universal. There were moments when I was deeply moved, even brought to tears.

That being said, while I appreciated the knowledge and emotion Weston brought to the table, I found the pace a bit slow at times, which left me feeling disconnected in parts. Overall, though, it’s an impactful and moving read, and I’m grateful for the lessons it imparted.

I'm giving this book decent 3 ⭐.

I just finished a great book. Alive by Gabriel Wilson was a good read. Pick this one up on publication day.