Mountains Beyond Mountains: The Quest of Dr. Paul Farmer, a Man Who Would Cure the World by Tracy Kidder Summary and Reviews
|
List Price: Our Price: $7.00 You Save: $8.95 (56%) Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days Buy Used: from $5.25 (click here) Category: Book See more book details and other editions |
|---|
Book Reviews of Mountains Beyond Mountains: The Quest of Dr. Paul Farmer, a Man Who Would Cure the World
Book Review: Well-Written Exploration of Human Struggle
Summary: 5 Stars
This book was fantastic. It was a non-fiction narrative, and was worth reading throughout just for the language and imagery. But what was really remarkable was the exploration of human suffering, both of those who suffered for witnessing other's struggles and of those suffering with such perspective.
As such, it is an examination of humanity. Interestingly, it seems that we only get to really discover what that is once we've sat down and deliberated about it a bit. Why do we ask questions like, "how else could we have spent those twenty thousand dollars?" but not "why is an attempt to save that boys life not worth 20% of my (a doctor's) salary?" Or, "how do you say you are waiting for these peasants to 'step up' and demand clean water when they do not know that illness comes from water?"
I just finished reading it and have ordered another copy to have to lend out. The only reason not to read this book is if you don't want to confront the reality of our potential as human beings. I'm a pretty intensely involved person, but Paul Farmer shows me just how much more I can do. And what fundamental assumptions need to be recognized and challenged if we are to succeed in our greater goals.
Book Review: Another Kidder winner
Summary: 4 Stars
There is something about Kidder's books that captures one's attention - its the details he captures, and how those details bring people to life. It is almost as though he paints a picture all around you so that you can become a part of the story - an observer like him.
In this case, writing the story of a lauded Doctor who is changing the way the world thinks about addressing medical needs in areas of poverty, it could not have been easy to have gathered these facts. Dr. Farmer is fascinating - but so unlike anyone I know, that Kidder too must have been challenged to relate to him. Perhaps the most humanizing moment is when Kim (one of Dr. Farmer's associates) echo's for another time the message they try to teach their associates at Partners in Health - admire what Dr. Farmer does, aspire to do great things like him, but don't do it his way. And at some point this reader had to come to exactly the same point - I'm reading a book about someone who is doing great things, but in a way I cannot ever imagine replicating, and therefore I have to read this book almost as fiction.
I walked away from the book admiring although bewildered by Dr. Farmer, and intensely admiring of Kidder. Both the man and the biographer emerge as tremendous human beings.
Book Review: An Inspirational Story
Summary: 5 Stars
An inspirational story set in the real world with real people, told by one of America's great storytellers. What's not to love? After reading this book, I purchased three additional copies as gifts. If you're looking for a lift, a story about how a single individual with courage and commitment can change the world, read this book. You won't be disappointed.Book Review: Mountains Beyond Mountains by Tracy Kidder
Summary: 5 Stars
Inspiring , a quick read . You don't have to have an interest in the third world or in medicine to apperciate or injoy this book . I gave it to my sister , she read it immediately an gave it to my mom who read it immediately . Who knows where it will stop . The world needs more people like Paul Farmer . Book Review: Great book, remarkable man
Summary: 5 Stars
This book was chosen by SANTA BARBARA READS as the book the community would read this year. It was an excellent and inspired choice. Paul Farmer spoke to the community at a free lecture in October and he was even better than his press. Great sense of humor. Over 300 people turned out to hear him.