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46 pages 1 hour read

My Stroke of Insight: A Brain Scientist's Personal Journey

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2006

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Book Brief

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Jill Bolte Taylor

My Stroke of Insight

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2006
Book Details
Pages

188

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

2000s

Publication Year

2006

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

My Stroke of Insight: A Brain Scientist’s Personal Journey by Jill Bolte Taylor is a memoir that recounts the author's experience as a neuroscientist who suffered a severe hemorrhagic stroke at age 37, underwent major brain surgery, and embarked on a years-long journey to recovery. The book serves as both a personal narrative and a scientific exploration of brain function, strokes, and the distinct roles of the brain's hemispheres, offering insights into achieving inner peace and compassion by balancing thought patterns.

Informative

Inspirational

Contemplative

Emotional

Hopeful

Reviews & Readership

4.2

36,823 ratings

72%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

My Stroke of Insight by Jill Bolte Taylor offers a compelling narrative of the author's experience with a stroke. Positive reviews commend the book's unique perspective from a neuroanatomist and its inspirational recovery story. Some critiques mention repetitive content and a lack of depth in scientific details, but overall, it's praised for its emotional depth and insightful personal journey.

Who should read this

Who Should Read My Stroke of Insight?

The ideal reader of My Stroke of Insight by Jill Bolte Taylor is someone fascinated by the intersection of neuroscience and personal transformation. Fans of The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat by Oliver Sacks and When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi will appreciate Taylor's unique perspective on her stroke and recovery.

4.2

36,823 ratings

72%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Character List

Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor

An American neuroscientist who suffered a massive hemorrhagic stroke at 37, she shares her journey of recovery and insights on brain function from her perspective as a stroke survivor and scientist.

Dr. Taylor's mother, who plays a central role in Taylor's recovery by providing care, comfort, and rehabilitative support, emphasizing the importance of familial bonds and compassionate caregiving.

A colleague of Dr. Taylor's, Steve supports her during her stroke experience by accompanying her to the hospital and offering encouragement throughout her recovery.

One of Dr. Taylor's physicians, praised for her gentle and compassionate approach with stroke patients, which had a positive effect on Taylor's recovery experience.

Book Details
Pages

188

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

2000s

Publication Year

2006

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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