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39 pages 1 hour read

The Beauty in Breaking

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2020

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Book Brief

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Michele Harper

The Beauty in Breaking

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2020
Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

2010s

Publication Year

2020

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Beauty in Breaking, a memoir by emergency room physician Michele Harper, chronicles her experiences both personally and professionally, highlighting her journey as an African American woman confronting systemic racism and her traumatic past of domestic abuse. Throughout the book, Harper shares poignant patient stories that shaped her perspective on healing and resiliency, while revealing the human side of doctors. Includes themes of domestic violence, child abuse, systemic racism, and gun violence.

Contemplative

Emotional

Inspirational

Melancholic

Hopeful

Reviews & Readership

4.1

34,106 ratings

67%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Beauty in Breaking by Michele Harper is praised for its compelling narrative and heartfelt reflection on healing, both physical and emotional. Readers appreciate Harper's raw and honest storytelling, though some critique the book for a perceived lack of deep character development. Overall, it's a poignant memoir that resonates with many.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Beauty in Breaking?

A reader who would enjoy The Beauty in Breaking by Michele Harper is likely interested in personal memoirs that blend emotional resilience with professional insight. Fans of works such as When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi and Becoming by Michelle Obama will appreciate Harper's narrative on overcoming challenges in both life and medicine.

4.1

34,106 ratings

67%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

Michele Harper

An emergency room doctor with a background spanning from the South Bronx to Philadelphia and an education from Harvard University and the Renaissance School of Medicine. Her experiences, including childhood trauma, shape her personal and professional journey.

A police officer with whom Harper has a significant romantic relationship following her divorce. Their connection is marked by challenges as they navigate personal traumas.

Harper's ex-husband, whose decision not to move to Philadelphia led to their divorce. A documentary filmmaker, he and Harper met in college and shared a comfortable life before parting ways.

A young Black man who plays a pivotal role in Harper's story, symbolizing her advocacy for patient rights. His case highlights Harper's commitment to social justice in her medical practice.

A skilled but demanding physician Harper worked with during her residency. Known for her critical demeanor, she influenced Harper's medical training and approach to patient care.

Harper's father, whose history of domestic violence significantly impacted her childhood. His later attempt at reconciliation challenges Harper's capacity for forgiveness.

Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

2010s

Publication Year

2020

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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