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Amazing! I loved learning about the processes of cells—the basis for understanding all other bodily functions and malfunctions and consequently how we are treating illnesses. Cancer features prominently, as its cellular complexities are still beyond our control but incredible minds are constantly advancing the field of study and treatments. The writing is accessible even if much of it went over my head. I listened to the audio and loved it!

I absolutely love Dr. Mukherjee‘s books. In addition to being so gifted at explaining complex cellular biology concepts, he is extraordinarily well read and often adds incite using literature and poetry. He gets into the weeds of the science but is remarkably candid about his own experiences - even including accounts of his own mental health struggles. I recommend if you have a genuine interest in cell bio and aren‘t intimidated by science.

#nationalbookfestival

Made a pilgrimage to Barnes & Noble in Rhode Island today for the annual “50% off all hardcovers” sale. Look at how long the line was! (Red arrow indicates position of husband/spot-in-line holder and blue arrow shows where cash register was located.) It makes my heart happy to see so many people in a bookstore!

At right is my #bookhaul

New fun commute audiobook. I first got a copy from the library, and it was so good I decided to buy the audiobook with one of my Libro.fm credits to enjoy the book slowly while driving.

The author juggles the mind-blowing science, the history, his private life, and the cases of patients—which make the science real—to create a nicely flowing journey. It‘s a tad more stiff narratively than The Gene. Still a fascinating read, tho. It does necessitate some real focus at times, but then, the topic is vast and complex. Overall, this is popular science well explained yet not dumbed down. (I especially appreciated the metaphors.)

4.5/5

The book about cell biology covers individual cells, their division, organs, cell repair, cancers, immune systems, and medical applications of all of that knowledge. There‘s a lot to love in this book: the topic, the writing, the anecdotes, etc but I especially loved that the information wasn‘t glossed over, but explained to show the complexity and beauty of our cells

Didn't get a whole lot done this weekend beyond lesson planning, but did manage to sneak in enough time to get my winter gnomes out (this is Hilde) and pick up a copy of The Song of the Cell. I can't wait to read this, although I suspect I won't have the available brainspace until July 😕

Mukherjee is an unparalleled science writer, so I 💯 enjoyed his look at cell biology. He starts with basic bacterial cells, but he spends the majority of time on humans and our wide variety of cell types. He highlights the scientists behind the discoveries and often notes where they fit into historical movements. I found it most interesting when he delved into the ethical issues behind cell therapies and gene editing. Highly recommend!

This is a heavy book about the history of the science of the cell and the practical applications of that knowledge in medicine. I admit that some of the science went over my head, but most of it was fascinating and left me with an even deeper respect for the human body. My favorite parts were the stories about the real patients and doctors as they tried to use the new knowledge. This is a book that will make you smarter! 4/5 stars.