Aleta's Book Report

Hardcover, 576 pages Published May 19th 2015 by Oxford University Press, USA (first published April 3rd 2015) ISBN 0199334412 (ISBN13: 9780199334414) ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ WOW! This is a MUST READ for biology teachers. I had only heard snippets of this story, and they seem to have been related to me incorrectly. I am so glad I have read (listened) to this book. Jacobs does a great job with his early life, and that of his parents. She addresses the controversy of the killed vs. weakened vaccine, Salk vs. Sabin, and other stories. Jacobs gives us real insight as to the founding of the NFIP (National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis) which started the March of Dimes. The beginning of this is amazing, and gave rise to Salk's idea that the people of the nation own the vaccine, as they provided the funds for its development. Again, I say, READ THIS BOOK. It is really long, but all really good books are!

Patient H.M. A Story of Memory, Madness, and Family Secrets by Luke Dittrich Random House Publishing Group - Random House Random House Nonfiction (Adult), Science Pub Date 09 Aug 2016 I was enchanted with the details and the history of neurosurgery in this book. The author, being the grandson of the doctor in focus, provides a great insight into the life of that grandfather and the development of his surgical skills. Another aspect is the history of the lobotomy: surgical, via accident, or medication. The author reviewed the stories of Broca and Tan, as well as Phineas Gage and the sister of JFK, in a compelling, storytelling way which will appeal to high school and college students. I recommend this book for teachers and students who are interested in studying the brain, accidents involving the brain, and surgery.