The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down by Anne Fadiman

A Hmong Child, Her American Doctors, and the Collision of Two Cultures

This book explores the clash between a small county hospital in California and a refugee family from Laos over the care of Lia Lee, a Hmong child diagnosed with severe epilepsy. The book delves into the contrasting perspectives of Lia's family, who see her condition as a spiritual matter, and her doctors, who perceive it as a medical issue. This cultural divide leads to a tragic misunderstanding, highlighting the challenges of navigating a complex healthcare system while maintaining cultural beliefs and traditions.

The 3739th greatest book of all time


Published
1997
Nationality
American
Type
Nonfiction
Pages
341
Words
117,000
Original Language
English
Alternate Titles
None

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