The Island of the Colorblind
by Oliver Sacks
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Book Summary Information
Author: Oliver SacksEdition: Paperback
Audio: English (Unknown); English (Original Language); English (Published)
Published: 1998-01-12
ISBN: 0375700730
Number of pages: 336
Publisher: Vintage
Book Reviews of The Island of the Colorblind
Book Review: A Gray New World
Summary: 5 Stars
Oliver Sacks has created a lump of delight in his book, The Island of the Colorblind. After having a sincere interest in the topic of colorblind people, Sacks travels to Micronesia to visit with and better understand the victims of achromatopsia (a form of colorblindness) on the island. He takes with him a man by the name of Knut, who also has achromatopsia. They journey all over Micronesia, encountering numerous people living with the disease and thriving. They perform tests to assess the magnitude of the disease on the islands. Sunglasses and visors are passed out to the inhabitants to help them live their lives to the fullest. In the end, Sacks states that though the achromatopes of Micronesia are on a physical island, they also belong to the emotional island of achromatopes everywhere.
I found this book increasingly interesting with each passing page. The detail of his observations and the total immersion into the culture made it a joy. I agree with most other reviews in saying that the 50 page, illustrated notes at the end of the book make it much easier to understand the culture of the area and all that is happening around Sacks. His extensive citations tell me that he has truly researched all of his facts. I, like the above review, do not understand how people could not find this book humorous and delightful.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a challenging read. The words are large and there is much scientific talk. If you are interested enough in the topic to figure out the words, the book will be truly amazing. Colorblindness is such an underrated illness and it was wonderful to get an inside look.
-Micah
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