Awakenings

by Oliver Sacks

English language

Published Nov. 1, 1990

ISBN:: 978-0-06-097368-1

(14 reviews)

This is the extraordinary account of a group of 20 patients, survivors of the great sleeping-sickness epidemic which swept the world in the 1920s, and the astonishing, explosive "awakening" effect they experienced 40 years later through a new drug L-DOPA administered by Dr Sacks. The stories he tells of these remarkable individuals are moving, often courageous and sometimes tragic. Through them he also explores the most general questions of health, disease, suffering, care and the human condition.

31 editions

SaraLeon reviewed Awakenings by Oliver Sacks

Review of 'Awakenings' on 'Goodreads'

4 stars

Another great book of medical and life anecdotes, questioning our perception of time and quality of life. The stories were moving, both in a sadening and joyous way. Lay people might need to look up some terminology, but all in all I think it's written wonderfully and insightful. The openness and compassion of Oliver Sacks is palpable.