An Anthropologist on Mars by Oliver Sacks

In this classic example of Oliver Sacks' work, "An Anthropologist on Mars" is a book of seven case studies of some of his patients. As a neurologist Sacks interacted with many interesting individuals with interesting cases that he wrote about extensively throughout his career. In this book we read about tourette's, mysterious colorblindness, and autism, along with other neurological cases that Sacks found interesting. And, as was his custom, we came to understand the title as we read the case study with which he ends his book.

I have read several of Sacks' books and I have found each interesting, but they are strongly colored by understandings of the time. And I don't mean this scientifically. His choice of words when describing some of his patients, particularly those with autism, is dehumanizing and belittling. While I think it's good that these stories are being told, I hope that he treated his patients with greater empathy in person than he did in the text.

I started reading Sacks' work to help me with my Undergrad Thesis after my professor recommended him as inspiration to write science in a way that can be understood. I obviously didn't finish all of the books she recommended before submitting my thesis, but better late than never!

As for my recommendation, if you like very academic and scientific writing with a hint of a narrative, Oliver Sacks is a good author to explore. If that isn't your style, it is unlikely you will find his work interesting. His work is interesting and well done but, like any nonfiction, you have to be interested in the subject for it to be worth your time.

Now go out into the world, have a beautiful week, and happy reading!

XO, Ellen