Paul Kalanithi

Paul Kalanithi was an American neurosurgeon and writer. He is best known for his memoir 'When Breath Becomes Air,' which chronicles his life and battle with stage IV metastatic lung cancer. Kalanithi died in March 2015, and his book was posthumously published in January 2016. It became a New York Times bestseller and has been translated into multiple languages, touching readers with its profound reflections on life, death, and the meaning of one's work in the face of mortality.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. When Breath Becomes Air

    This poignant memoir is a reflection on life and death by a young neurosurgeon who is diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. He grapples with the role reversal from doctor to patient, and confronts the reality of his mortality. The narrative explores the intersection of medicine and philosophy, and the meaning of life when faced with death. Despite his deteriorating health, he continues to find joy in his relationships and work, leaving behind a powerful message about the value of every moment.