Plot Summary

Anatomy of an Illness as Perceived by the Patient

Norman Cousins
Guide cover placeholder

Anatomy of an Illness as Perceived by the Patient

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 1979

Book Brief

Norman Cousins

Anatomy of an Illness as Perceived by the Patient

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 1979
Book Details
Pages

176

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

1970s

Publication Year

1979

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

Anatomy of an Illness as Perceived by the Patient is an inspirational memoir by Norman Cousins, detailing his remarkable recovery from ankylosing spondylitis and a severe connective tissue disease. After rejecting hospital care, Cousins, with the support of his doctor, adopted a health regimen involving laughter, high doses of Vitamin C, and positivity, ultimately leading to his recovery.

Inspirational

Hopeful

Informative

Humorous

Reviews & Readership

4.3

2,649 ratings

80%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Norman Cousins's Anatomy of an Illness as Perceived by the Patient offers an inspirational and thought-provoking narrative on the power of positive thinking and laughter in healing. While praised for its heartfelt personal journey and emphasis on patient empowerment, some critics question its scientific rigor. Overall, the book is celebrated for its humanistic and hopeful message.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Anatomy of an Illness as Perceived by the Patient?

Readers of Anatomy of an Illness as Perceived by the Patient by Norman Cousins will likely be health enthusiasts, medical professionals, and individuals interested in the mind-body connection. Comparable titles include The Healing Self by Deepak Chopra and Rudolph Tanzi and How to Be Sick by Toni Bernhard.

4.3

2,649 ratings

80%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

176

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

1970s

Publication Year

1979

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Buy This Book

We’re just getting started

Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!