3 Good Reads
When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi
Paul Kalanithi’s When Breath Becomes Air is an exploration of what it means to find meaning in life—and death. Diagnosed with terminal cancer at the height of his career as a neurosurgeon, Kalanithi pivots from saving lives to contemplating the nature of existence itself. The book chronicles his transition from doctor to patient, but also from someone who’s always been in control to someone who’s forced to surrender. It’s not just a memoir of dying; it’s a meditation on what gives life purpose. If you’ve ever wondered about the intersection of medicine, spirituality, and the human experience, this is one to read with a reflective mind and an open heart.
Educated by Tara Westover
Tara Westover’s Educated is a testament to the courage it takes to break free from the beliefs and limitations others impose on us. Growing up in a strict, survivalist family in Idaho, she didn’t set foot in a classroom until she was 17. Her father’s mistrust of the government and conventional medicine created a reality for Westover that was isolated, frightening, and deeply unstable. Yet, through grit and a hunger for knowledge, she broke away and eventually earned a PhD from Cambridge University. Educated is about more than just academics; it’s about reclaiming your mind, your voice, and your identity. We love this book!
Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before? by Dr. Julie Smith
Dr. Julie Smith’s Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before? is like having a therapist on your bookshelf. It’s packed with practical advice and relatable anecdotes that make navigating mental health struggles feel less daunting. Smith’s approach is no-nonsense but empathetic, guiding readers through everything from anxiety spirals to self-compassion with a reassuring tone that feels like a warm hug on a “terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day.” If you’ve ever wished for a manual on how to handle those moments when life feels overwhelming, this book is for you.
These books we’ve shared over the last few days are more than just stories—they’re companions on your own mental health journey. Whether you’re looking for solidarity in the shared experience, inspiration from those who’ve walked a similar path or simply the reassurance that healing is possible, each of these books offers a unique and valuable perspective. They remind us that mental health is not a linear path, and resilience comes in many forms.
Have you read any of these memoirs, or do you have others to add to the list? Let’s keep the conversation going and continue sharing the power of stories.