NATIONAL BESTSELLER
In his compelling book, Atul Gawande, the bestselling author of Being Mortal and Complications, takes readers on a journey through the highs and lows of the medical field. Through a series of riveting accounts, he uncovers how health professionals strive for excellence amidst the chaos and risk inherent in their profession. Gawande addresses the universal struggle to perform well—facing fatigue, limited resources, and the reality of human imperfection. In medicine, however, these factors hold even greater weight as every decision can result in life or death.
In Better, Gawande shares his gripping narratives that transport us to various settings, from battlefield surgical tents in Iraq to the delivery rooms in Boston, and even to a polio outbreak in India. Each story offers a glimpse into the multitudes of challenges encountered by medical professionals, including the ethical dilemmas associated with lethal injections, the corrupting influence of money in healthcare, and the strikingly controversial history of handwashing.
As he shares his own experiences as a practicing surgeon, Gawande provides an authentic perspective on the field. He candidly discusses the weight of responsibility that comes with making mistakes that are, at times, unthinkable. His writing is both unflinching and compassionate, revealing the fragile nature of medical practice while illustrating the profound humanity behind it.
Moreover, Gawande's examination into how doctors evolve from being merely good to truly great delivers insightful takeaways that resonate across all realms of human endeavor. This exploration engenders a deeper understanding of what it takes to succeed, not just in medicine, but in any pursuit that demands diligence, integrity, and a commitment to improve.
Join Atul Gawande on an exhilarating journey through the world of medicine and beyond, and leave with a new appreciation for those who dedicate their lives to healing others.