60 pages • 2 hours read
Left Neglected
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Book Brief
352
Novel • Fiction
Boston, Massachusetts • Contemporary
2011
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In Left Neglected by Lisa Genova, Sarah Nickerson, a high-powered executive, suffers a traumatic brain injury in a car accident, resulting in a condition called Left Neglect, which impairs her ability to perceive the left side of her body. As she undergoes rehabilitation, Sarah reevaluates her priorities, mends her strained relationship with her mother, and learns to appreciate a slower, more family-focused lifestyle.
Informative
Emotional
Challenging
Inspirational
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
84,360 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Left Neglected by Lisa Genova offers an emotionally powerful exploration of resilience and adaptation following a traumatic brain injury. Reviewers praise the well-researched medical insights and compelling narrative, though some find character development lacking and the plot predictable. Genova’s empathy and authenticity resonate deeply, making the novel both educational and moving. MLA: Left Neglected by Lisa Genova offers an emotionally powerful exploration of resilience and adaptation following a traumatic brain injury. Reviewers praise the well-researched medical insights and compelling narrative, though some find character development lacking and the plot predictable. Genova’s empathy and authenticity resonate deeply, making the novel both educational and moving.
Who Should Read Left Neglected?
Readers who would enjoy Left Neglected by Lisa Genova are fans of emotionally resonant, character-driven narratives that explore the intricacies of living with neurological conditions. Similar to readers of Still Alice by Genova or The Diving Bell and the Butterfly by Jean-Dominique Bauby, they appreciate profound storytelling with a scientific touch.
84,360 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Bob Nickerson
Bob Nickerson
Sarah's husband who works long hours at an IT start-up and faces challenges in managing the household after Sarah's accident, showcasing his dedication to his family amid external pressures.
Helen
Helen
Sarah's mother who lives on Cape Cod and becomes a key support figure after Sarah's accident, dealing with her own past emotional struggles and forging a new relationship with Sarah.
Charlie Nickerson
Charlie Nickerson
The seven-year-old son of Sarah and Bob, who faces academic and social challenges due to ADHD but finds joy and a sense of belonging through snowboarding.
Lucy Nickerson
Lucy Nickerson
Sarah and Bob’s bright and lively five-year-old daughter who adapts well to changes and enjoys her early school experiences.
Linus Nickerson
Linus Nickerson
The nine-month-old son of Sarah and Bob, who is cared for by his family and nanny, showing resilience and growth parallel to Sarah's recovery.
Heidi
Heidi
Sarah's friend and occupational therapist, who provides support and encouragement throughout Sarah's recovery journey, helping her adapt to new challenges.
352
Novel • Fiction
Boston, Massachusetts • Contemporary
2011
Adult
18+ years
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