My Stroke of Insight: A Brain Scientist's Personal Journey

I heard of My Stroke of Insight by Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor after attending a stroke support group meeting as an assignment while I was a student in a Physical Therapist Assistant program. My father also had a stroke in 2008 so I was interested in reading about a medical professional’s account of what was happening to their body as they themselves were experiencing a stroke. This book was much more than I was expecting. As a medical professional myself now I wasn’t sure if Dr. Bolte Taylor would sound very clinical and dive into lecturing, but it was quite the opposite. Dr. Bolte Taylor did explain some neuro anatomy and structures affected during her stroke but she expressed her thoughts in such detail they were so powerful, human and gripping. As I read, I was so moved by her courage and determination to push through and focus on her recovery. I loved how she reflected on relearning everything and appreciated her right hemisphere where creativity lies waiting to be explored and how she embraced her artistic side after her stroke. This is a fantastic book I highly recommend for anyone even if you don’t have a relative who’s had a stroke or even if you don’t work in the medical field Dr. Bolte Taylor explains her story in a way that’s so moving any reader will walk away from it with compassion and so many lessons.

What do you get when you have a brain scientist, with a Ph. D., experience a stroke, survive, and then fully recover? You get a pretty amazing book detailing the experience and recounting a remarkable journey back to recovery. On December 10, 1996, Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor, a 37-year-old Harvard-trained brain scientist, suffered a major brain hemorrhage of the left side of her brain. As a result of her training, she had the knowledge, insight, and wherewithal to understand what was taking place and remarkably was able to seek help while her brain and body were failing her. The book begins with a couple of chapters of her background prior to the stroke and then progresses to the day of the stroke. Her recounting of the day of the stroke is filled with incredible detail, especially considering the mental deterioration she was experiencing. We learn how she was able to survive and her incredible journey back where she needed to relearn everything, even the simplest of things like feeding herself, walking, reading, writing, and so many things we take for granted. Dr. Jill says it took her 8 years to fully recover from her stroke. She's put together an incredible book of her journey and she's been a guest on a number of different shows. She even has an 18-minute TedTalk on her idea worth spreading. 1,683 Amazon reviewers have given this an average of 4.6 stars. Goodreads shows a 3.86 rating after 18,345 ratings and 2,887 reviews. I absolutely love the study of our brain's neuroplasticity. This first half of this book was amazing but it slowed a little in the second half. I give it a 5-star for the first half and 3-star for the second for a total 4-star rating.

I bought this book after becoming certified as a brain health coach and after having seen the author's TEDTalk by the same name. This book goes WAY beyond the 18 minute TEDTalk in describing her first-hand experience of what it was like to have a stroke. It also goes in depth describing the painstaking 8-year rehabilitation she went through in order to fully recover her brain function. Such powerful story about more than just stroke, healing and recovery. She does a great job of describing the nature of and differences between how right brain & left brain function, and how their integration makes us who we are. I also recommend this book for anyone who's struggled with depression, even if they don't have any family history of stroke. Her story of selectively rehabilitating her left-brain so she'd be less captive to its former negativity is really inspiring, to remind folks who are prone to depression that we actually do have the power to redirect our thoughts and choose which brain pathways we allow to be dominant. I had many important epiphanies reading this book, and have been able to share the benefits of it by discussing key findings with some of my brain health coaching clients who suffer from depression, anxiety, PTSD, etc. Can't speak highly enough about it; I think everyone with a brain needs to read this book!

I'd read this book a number of years ago and urged our library to purchase it. Living in an area where there are a lot of older people, I felt its wisdom and insight would be most helpful to any who have loved ones with a stroke. This August my own husband suffered a stroke, not nearly as severe as Jill Taylor's but his speech, reading and writing were affected. I just purchased our own copy. I wanted to review the processes of Jill's mother, the caregiver. It was also the first book my husband was able to read. It helped him to understand what was happening. Love and hard work, inspired by Jill and her mother, will get us through.

MY STROKE OF INSIGHT REVIEW We are fortunate that Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor, author of “My Stroke of Insight,” is a brain scientist with enough fortitude to survive a stroke, intellect to examine the experience, patience to overlook medical ignorance, and a willingness to share her adversity. It is also a delight to have a communicator with writing skills and the ability to dumb down her discussion to my level, a step above a cement mixer. One passage in her book asks the us, the readers, to imagine having our natural facilities, speech, vision, hearing, movement, memory, sensation, suddenly stripped away from our consciousness, leaving us with a peaceful heart and afloat in a sea of euphoria. You simply blend into a world of glorious emptiness until blessed sleep quiets the world around you. You awake to the same euphoria until you sleep again. Sounds peaceful if you reject life. One amazing aspect I saw here was Dr. Taylor’s ability to fight through her loss of mental capacity and realize that she would have to keep struggling if she was going make any sense of what was happening. As a clinician, she was determined to keep a mental awareness of the debilitation that was overtaking her. To have retained the impressions and impulses of an empty mind seems to be a remarkable achievement; her dedication seems relentless. I was moved by her exasperation with the medical community and its inability to evolve into a more caring and understanding world than they normally inhabit. The ability to communicate with a person in Dr. Taylor‘s condition seemed alien to their way of providing care. This is a phenomenon that has frustrated many patients, although most are not as badly injured as Dr. Taylor. I suspect that her criticism may have positive effects. The author starts her book with a simple exploration of the brain and its functions. We relive the morning she had her stroke, a relentless narrative of her injury. I actually tried to shy away from her descriptions of senses leaving the body and mind. I was anxious trying to figure out how she was going to get help. Then we arrive at the hospital and a world where help is expected, but seemed a great agitation to Dr. Taylor because of the hustle and bustle that aggravated her injury because of the noise. Eventually Dr. Taylor leaves the hospital in the company of her mother, a remarkable woman with the same fortitude and determination, who, sadly, passed away in December 2015. We agonize through Dr. Taylor’s slow return to partial functionality with Mom as a patient caretaker, experience a complex surgical procedure to her brain, and eventually work our way back to a nearly normal life. It’s a fantastic journey that will have you clenching your fingers and curling your toes as you physically experience the dismaying world of confusion and hopelessness. Learn from it and don’t miss it. Schuyler T Wallace Author of TIN LIZARD TALES

What this book explained to me is not at all what is written. She explained what each hemisphere of our brain controls. Through everything she explained and how her left hemisphere was affected versus how my injury is on my right hemisphere, revealed so much about how our brains only control physical things, but our connection/acknowledgment of Spirit will determine the knowledge we posess. What we know is not in our head. What we're able to do is what is in our head. What we know is determined by Spirit. I had to experience loosing my connection to physical to realize this. "Natural man" needs to be used by us, but only for physical things, not thinking. When we use our brains it becomes negative, judgemental, and not substantial. We are here to discover exactly how to use/be Spirit. To be Spirit with bodies...

This book covers three basic topics from the perspective of a stroke survivor whose career is teaching and studying the anatomy of the brain. It's not a textbook, so don't expect deep details of neuroanatomy. 1. What it felt like during her stroke and immediately after. The stroke occurred on the left side (logical, linear, detail-oriented) of her brain, so the dominant feelings she experienced were from the right side of her brain. As she explains, our right brain is emotional, joyous, peaceful and may be the connection to our feelings of spirituality. 2. What kinds of activities were necessary, helpful, and not helpful during her recovery process. If you know someone who has experienced a stroke, you'll want to review Appendix B. It covers 40 things the author needed the most during her recovery. 3. The author also attempts to connect her experience to advice for the reader to enhance their life. For me, this had a few gems and a lot of "woo woo" ideas. She obviously has found great value and enjoyment in her right-brain self. That might not suit all of us that didn't have the incredibly right-brained stroke experience. All in all, a valuable medical memoir.

Immediately after discovering the existence of this book I ordered a copy, as the problem with harming part of the left side of the brain also once has happen to me, and I since then have been interesting in hearing, or reading, other person stories about how it for them went on. For me it actually was not a stroke, blood getting out in the brain, but from outside by braking the skull after my helmet fall of at a motorcycle accident 41 years ago. Then during the following 12 days, I in the hospital daily was talking fine with persons, I later have been told. But actual I recall it as I must have lived in a parallel world, because first when I woke the morning on the 13th day, I then was “back” in the real world, and again storing memories, and realized that I was lying in a hospital which I recognized. And I then only remembered the names of 5 persons, 1 country, 1 city, 1 street, and had nearly no languages to use. And since then I have only managed getting back 2 of the 4 previous known languages, and found it impossible the relearn, or learn, other languages, and being extremely bad in remembering names/technical word. But anyway 5 years after the accident I managed in starting and getting through high educations. Personally I owe many big drawing and pictures of brains, but I think that to many persons the book will be helpful with the many small drawings showing the positions in the brain from where the explained activations are made and then send, as for example talking, mathematic, seeing, moving parts of the body and so on. That is how and where the brain is making logical conclusion concerning what shall be done, and then turn it on by sending the messages. In Jill’s description about how her brain was functioning, in the morning just from when the stroke started, I clearly recall how my brain was sensing, feeling, reacting, before an “epileptic” attack which happened to me 1 year after the accident. Then among other “seeing” a strange action in the TV, and wondering why my friends, also looking on the TV, didn’t react on this; and then I blacked out, and was waked up by ambulance persons. And where it now can happen as the result of stress, but only like an extremely mild epileptic attach, by only during few minutes, being without possibility by talking explaining anything. Before I read the book I did not know that some strokes actually are caused by that some persons in the brain are having a failure in the blood vessels as the result of an arteria being directly connected to a vein, instead of as always being connected through extremely thin tubes, from which the energy is delivered to the muscles and so on. But it showed up that some unhealthy persons, like Jill, then suddenly are hit by a stroke as the vein brake as it not is made to the same pressure as the arteries, and it then brake in the age 35 – 45, and were Jill then was 37. It’s especially interesting to read about Jill’s life from the moment when the stroke started and until when she woke up after the surgery, and then again could begin in again also using her left brain half normally. And thereby managing talking, and the other works made in the brains left half, which now was started on the rebuilding, getting back to work, helped by training. And I clearly understand how she was feeling, and first denied, when she was told that a doctor would have to cut in here scalp for making a surgery. Because 15 years after the accident I then by a doctor, just after my brain was scanned, was proposed in having removed the small destroyed part in the brain, for thereby not having a block that sometimes disturbing the wire connection, but the thinking of being cut in the head was awful, so I denied. But it’s also interesting to learn about how she after the accident, actually started thinking and understanding the brain, now by looking on it from another side, and thereby more directly, learning to know the brain, than during the education and the following practice. And thereby learning to understanding, use, and taking care of the brain more directly. All put together it’s an excellent book to read by both the persons being hit by a stroke and by relatives and doctors.

Stroke is a scary topic to learn and come across. It baffles me whenever I learn of someone who is perfectly able on one day and then succumbs to a loss of memory or immobility the next. Although this book does not delve into mental disorders/illnesses such as stroke, encephalitis, schizophrenia or bipolar, it does help me understand how a person can lose his/her normal abilities overnight. The author, Jill Bolte Taylor, may be one of the most qualified people to explain the topic because not only did she study the human brain her entire life, she suffered a stroke which gave her a first person view of what she'd studied. Although this book is not distinctly divided into parts, this book is structured in four parts. The first part is where we learned about Jill's life as a neuroanatomist. This is my favorite part because she provided an introductory course on brain anatomy, limbic system and stroke. From the simple figures she included, readers can identify the approximate locations within our brain that are responsible for our vision, hearing, speech, and more. The second part is where we learned about her stroke at the age of 37. Jill suffered a severe hemorrhagic stroke in her left hemisphere of the brain due to an arteriovenous malfunction (AVM). Jill documented her incident including how she was able to find help. It is important to note that finding help is not as easy as dialing 911 when you suffer a stroke because numbers do not appear as numbers in front of you. Ironically, instead of feeling or registering fear, Jill felt ethereal during her incident. Jill also described her experience as nirvana which I found hard to grasp as a reader. The third part is where Jill shared her journey of recovery. This part is helpful for people who suffered stroke and/or recovering from stroke. For example, Jill explained the efficacy of sleeping and how multiple choice questions enabled her to retrieve the "filing cabinets" within her brain. The last part is the crux of this book where "stroke of insight" was shared. Of note, this part explained the plasticity of our brain and its ability to recover. This is an interesting part because Jill explained the differences between the left hemisphere and the right hemisphere through her recovery process. It was fascinating to learn that our left hemisphere thrives on details and it is responsible for judgement, analysis, comparison, creating/understanding speech and more. Our mind also speaks to us via the left hemisphere in a phenomenon Jill referred to as "brain chatter". Meanwhile, the right hemisphere is responsible for the sensation of the present moment and assessing the emotional content of speech. After reading, it does make me wonder how the left and right hemisphere compliments each other during my daily activities/routines - e.g., microwaving food, tying a shoelace, buying groceries. Overall, I enjoy reading this book and I wish I read this book earlier because it provided great insights of the human brain. It is humbling to learn how powerful and intricate the human brain is. Another memoir I recommend reading related to mental disorders/illnesses is Brain on Fire: My Month of Madness by Susannah Cahalan but I recommend reading Stroke of Insight prior so that you have a better understanding of the human brain and the repercussions of brain damages.

At the title suggests, the book provides first-hand insight into strokes and recovery. The one part that struck me was when she spoke about her experiences in the hospital. While I am grateful for the care my mom received, it was frustrating at the same time. My mom isn't dumb. She comprehends everything you are saying. However, it does take her more time to process as her brain is recovering. You would think people who study the brain would get it. This book should be a required read for those in medicine and caregivers...and stroke survivors.

This first person narrative of a stroke, from a person with a science background, is quite interesting and thought provoking. It provides the reader with a look into the emotions and feelings of a person who has suffered a stoke and struggled to recover over several years. It is satisfying, as well as inspiring, to hear that Jill has adapted to her 'new' normal and continues to contribute to society.

This book is about 200 pages long. It has about 50 pages worth reading, but no one would publish that. The author is an Oprah and TED star, not a book writer. Many pages read like a badly written novel. Too many adjectives and adverbs and flowing prose that adds little to the understanding of the material. Still, I trudge through it because I have relatives with similar conditions. That is about the case with most of these medical books that reach out to the popular audience. People will read them no matter how they are written because they are motivated to find something that will help them, their family, and their loved ones. Those ten pages are in Taylor’s book. The other 190…well you flip through them as fast as you can to find the good ones. Three stars is a stretch, but again, I really wanted to read those 10 pages.

This is possibly the greatest book I've ever read. Her in site her courage and her humor have helped me so much to see what happened to my daughter-in-law. And to see how hard she has worked to come back to us from a devasting brain injury. My sure this will help me help her the rest of the way back or at the very least understand what she is going through. Hopefully it has also taught me to be more patient with myself and others. Thank you so much.

I expected to learn specific techniques used to help someone overcome the effects of a stroke and she completely leaves that VERY important chapter out. When you have a loved one who has just had a stroke, knowing how she made it through using games like scrabble, puzzles, object search and various hand/eye coordination exercises would have been so helpful.

I was sure that I had read this book before, but Amazon did not tell me that, so I purchased it anyway. What I had retained from my earlier reading was that the author and her mother were convicted that sleep is the most important element in recovery from stroke. I no doubt read it in pre-Amazon days. This time, I was struck by Taylor's treatment of right- and left-brain functioning. The last section reads like a combination of my psychopharmacologist and yoga/meditation teacher. I find it enlightening that Taylor seems to have gained from her stroke a perspective similar to the one my teacher achieved after five years in an ashram. The book is well-written and the author is intelligent.

There is too little science, and most of it contains overgeneralizations and oversimplfications. Very few useful specifics of any sort. Much of the book consists of details of limited usefulness and fairly repetitious quasi mystical experiences. I quit at 80% as I could not take any more. This could have been a uniquely informative book, what a missed opportunity.

I really appreciated how this book was structured to help me learn about strokes, the brain, and the somewhat goofy ways we help others learn about these kinds of things (i.e. in songs). It gave me perspective around willpower and how special certain bonds are between people. Patience, persistence, and a good sense of humor seemed to me to be the best medicine. It's funny how we easily abandon these things in an emergency like stroke. I really loved seeing the patient-doctor perspective. In a way I feel this book gave me some resiliency should I or a loved one have a stroke.

This is the best book to read about strokes! I recommend anyone in the medical field, including students and family members of anyone who has personally experienced a stroke. It is an excellent read and gives great insight into what can happen during a stroke and the recovery process. I buy this book as a gift for all my students to read. The neurosurgeon at my hospital recently handed out several copies in our neuro ICU.

I bought this book to help me understand what may have happened when a very good friend of mine had a stroke. It helped me a lot and she enjoyed hearing about it. Speaking of hearing, I call her the little miracle. She could not hear before her stroke. She's 82 years old and had needed a hearing aid for years in order to hear. After the stroke, her hearing was completely back, with her not needing the aid after waking up from a week long coma. I've asked doctors (ENT) especially, and they've all told me that could not happen. Some things can't be explained, but are gifts from God. That's what I call a miracle. Her speech and cognitive awareness are back, but use of her right hand and leg are still not responding as well, especially her hand. It's been over a year now.

My brother suffered from a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) in a car accident and someone recommended this book to my mom - she would cry while reading this book she finally felt like she understood what my brother was going through even though he could not communicate with us while coming out of his coma. My mom is a nurse by trade so understanding the scientific breakdown also helped with her coping quite a bit. I have since bought this book for a few friends with family members who have suffered both strokes and TBIs. They all agree how insightful this was to understanding what loved ones go through despite not being able to communicate.

Recommended to me by my father. My mother had a brain tumor and stroke -- my Dad and I both regret not understanding what might be going on in someone's brain when they are not responsive to you. This is a truly remarkable real life story that should be mandatory reading for anyone dealing with a stroke patient. It is uplifting and enlightening. It is a spiritual book -- one that in ways scientifically explains the make up of our physical body and our brain -- and what happens in our brain becomes our reality and experience of life. I've looked up Jill Bolte Taylor on YouTube videos and to hear her speak is amazing.

I bought this book because I had a friend who has had 4 stokes now. The last was more severe. I wanted my fiend and her daughter to understand how recovery happens and timing. My friend is 76 and runs a business. She needed to accept she would not be driving,running her business or living alone for a long time if ever. The fog comes and goes and she has conditions that make her high risk for more stokes.

Having suffered the second stroke in less than three months I was consumed by fear and feeling like a time bomb. This book made me see inside myself and how my brain interprets events, feelings and emotion. A true insight into not only my frailties but that of others. I must reread again and again and use the mantras that my right brain has begun to develop to make the time in coming years full of gratitude and joy. I would recommend this to anyone who seeks intuition as to how the mind affects the body and ultimately our personal world and that we live in. It is a great read

I have a brain tumor that was the size of a baseball in the same location as Dr. Taylor's stroke. The way she describes her symptoms are so close to what I went through and the continued path of recovery. Her ability to even share her story is amazing and encourages me to share my brain story as well. I hope to meet her some day to be able to compare the way our symptoms arose and what remains after our treatments!

You have to be lucky enough if the book lands at your hands. If you want to know what does our Brain's right hemisphere does and what most of us are missing in our lives - Peace, energy from the Universe , everything the Spiritual Guru's talk about in youtube - Author has experienced it and explained it scientifically in this book. Also if you or loved ones are hit by stroke, Author has also mentioned a lot of recovery process from the stroke and her successful survival. If you are ready this review, don't miss this book of a lifetime.

The authors humanistic philosophy is so blatant throughout, it turned me off. Her experience was, to me, clearly a demonstration of Gods creative genius in the structure and function of our brains and his gracious participation in her healing. I will be very careful in recommending this book to anyone steeped in the challenges of dealing with a stroke and needing encouragement that God is involved in the healing process. Professionals who have clear understanding of their own faith in God can get some good information.

Wonderful account of life changing trauma transformed into life changing awareness and growth expressed with beautifully flowing language! (Post aphasia to boot!) I couldn't wait for the actual book to deliver after I fell for the 'why wait, read a sample (ebook) now' so I ended up buying both the book and the ebook and I'm not sorry! Dr. Taylor's insight a wonderful resource both as a new speech-language pathologist and my own personal desire to become a better person. Many are familiar with Dr. Taylor's excellent TED Talk –if you haven't seen it, watch it– which shares only a snippet of the experience that the book allows you to follow the nuances and daily triumphs over very real struggles all with language that doesn't require a degree to understand. As a professional, I have a better insight from a patient's perspective; as a neuroplasticity nerd, I have an impressive resource from both scientific and theoretical perspectives; as someone who is obsessed with communication, Dr. Taylor explains the reality of relearning language and it's abstractness in a tangible person-first format; as a professional who works with individuals with ASD, I learned another view point into sensory sensitivity; and as a advocate for mental health advances, I am moved by Dr. Taylor's dedication to advance MH research. I have already highlighted, taken notes and earmarked too many pages to admit! I also bought several for friends knowing they would love it!

This author and her mother achieved an exceptional recovery from a stroke in the right-hand-side of the author's brain. This was written well after recovery, may not be all that informative for those with strokes in other areas, and makes one wonder how the author was able to remember what she says she remembers from many years before the book was written. She and her guitar have performed at many venues.

the book is great - the information is well put together and really gave me insight also into our brains - I of course do not know if everything is accurate since it is the experience of the stroke victim who is also a brain doctor - I found it useful and have recommended it to my mom's doctor who takes care of dementia patients . I think it is a must read

Such an inciteful chonicling of a health event that would devastate most peole for the rest of their lives. Jill Bolte Taylor literally turns lemons into lemonade and shows us the journey of a brain's intricacies and capacity to heal. Very human and of interest to most whether you have a medical background or not. She offers clues on how to live from heart and the creative spirit that we are.

This is the second time I bought this book. This time, being older, I could relate to deaths in my family and understand the book from beginning to end. It is awesome and provides so many pointers subtle clues for working with and just as important being with people who are not only having strokes but who are getting senile or having memory loss problems. While the later 2 are not directly addressed, the information is there. Its a wonderful book. I think it also helps in the quest to dwell in silence, stillness and relaxing space. Highly recommended.

Very powerful and rewarding. I have known about your story since you wrote it, but haven’t read it till now. Brava! I must speak up a bit for the left brain expression that seems to have been overlooked,( or read over by me). Your left brain saved your life, didn’t it? ‘Left’ to its own, your right brain would have lived in bleeding bliss, of hemorrhagic joy, if not for left brain’s constant attention to the need for help! Anyway, thank you again. Very nicely done!

My wife had encephalitis (a traumatic brain injury) and another friend had a stroke that took him out for a couple years. This book gave great insight to what both went thru as far as healing goes -- I think it should be a must read for all stroke recovery centers/providers as I saw 1st hand the difference that 'doing it right' vs the way it's usually done can make in recovery. Amazing story, well told. A very fast read. I have given my book to others who have thanked me & purchased copies for family. We all might have a stroke someday -- this is good information on what happens & helpful recovery information we may all need at some point.

While this was a very interesting book to read, I was a bit disappointed because there were not many details for a stroke on the right side. The author had a stroke on the left side. My dad had one on the right side. I was hoping to find out more about what he might be feeling, but there was not too much info about that. Glad that I read it as I did learn a bit of knowledge.

After listening to the authors interview on Oprah’s, “Super Soul,” I had to read the book. Thank you for taking your readers on this journey of a memory you weren’t supposed to have. I learned so much about the brain and how intricately magnificent it truly is. This book opened my eyes and my heart to those who have suffered from a stroke. I appreciate your work, Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor.

I decided I needed to read this book after seeing an interview of Dr. Taylor on Oprah. Stroke is such a mystery to most people and we never really understand what a stroke patient is experiencing. Dr. Taylor experienced one herself and went on to relate her extremely fascinating story of what it's like to be the patient. She also tells how to best care for and treat the patient while in the hospital and in recovery. Armed with this understanding, love, patience and persistence we can help the patient recover, maybe never to the previous state, but to a very full life indeed. Her very detailed, yet easy to understand, explanation of what each part of the brain does, is so valuable for everyone to know, not just stroke victims. Armed with this information, every one of us would be more valuable and effective should a loved one suffer a stroke, or some other brain injury, and need our love and attention. There is also a spiritual aspect to this book that is enlightening. I think our Western way of thinking is so left brain that we often can't quiet the chatter enough to find the right brain peace that she describes. In my opinion, whatever reason you decide to read this book, medical or spiritual, you will be glad you did.

My Stroke of Insight is a marvelous story that both corroborated things I've thought about my whole life and answered questions I've had for equally as long. Dr. Taylor never blows her own horn throughout this harrowing and uplifting tale, but the courage she exhibited during her ordeal is there between the lines for all to see. When I finished the book, I was in that rare place where I was moved to a lump in my throat and overjoyed that she had made her recovery as complete as could be. I've never read another book quite like it. In the future, I will use this book as a reference for my writing, my understanding of human beings, my emotional well-being, and my own mental health. It is a keeper, for sure.

The author, herself a neuroanatomist at the Harvard Brain Institute, suffers a serious stroke in her left brain, the side of the brain that loves to work with data, organization, logic. The uninjured right side of her brain, that morning, finds itself unencumbered by the now-injured left side and loves the feeling of nirvana. It takes a while for her realize she's in trouble and how she gets help is itself a lesson. Remember, the left side, the "filing cabinet," doesn't remember 911. Ultimately help comes and we follow her through the first steps of treatment. But the most fascinating part of this, to me, was how she, with the help of her very intuitive and determined mother, climbs all the way back to the demanding career she has. If anyone tells you "whatever you don't recover in six months, you never will," this book will show you how nuts that is. It took her eight years to recover all her mental faculties---and you'll note there are choices she makes as to what she does NOT want to put back in her brain. But she's back, and doing a lot to educate us all about this trip as only someone who understood, as a researcher, could do. There is a list of 40 items at the back of the book that I would suggest to anyone who is working with a stroke victim, even if they don't read the book. My book is out on loan (again) or I'd look at the title of that section, but it has to do with the things that helped her the most in her recovery, starting with those initial days: "Don't ask me yes or no questions; ask me multiple choice questions." "If I want to sleep, let me sleep. So much recovery happens in sleep." And so on. This is truly one of the most interesting books I've ever read and one of the most essential for anyone working with stroke victims. My son's doctor called me to recommend it (my son is NOT a stroke victim), and I now have told countless others about it.

The author takes you on a journey that only she could accomplish. I hung onto every word and felt present in her most vulnerable moments. You don't have to suffer a stroke to realize cognitive issues, stress, high performance jobs, lack of sleep (to name a few enemies of normal brain functions) can all takes its toll on you. This can be accomplished in a few seconds to minutes, like that Jill B Taylor experienced or over a life time or certain phase of one's life. This book is instrumental not only for the edification of the brain's regenerative abilities, but for illustrating what prowess our choice in the matter yields.

In `My Stroke of Insight' Jill Taylor, a neuroscientist with a PhD, details from a scientific as well as a personal point of view what it was like to have a massive stroke. Her particular stroke destroyed part of the left side (speech and logical thinking) of her brain. Before her stroke at age 37, she was at a high point of her career and she would have known all about what was happening to her. She wrote the book after her painfully difficult recovery which took eight years. She was lucky to have professional friends and family who helped her through an almost super-human effort following her stroke. It's important to realize the difficulty of rehabilitation following a stroke. After a few years of primary progressive MS my symptoms were stroke-like. My left side of my body was extremely week. I struggled to walk with a cane and a leg brace. My Doctor sent me to a state-of-the-art stroke rehabilitation program for two intensive weeks. It was multi-disciplinary, it was comprehensive, and it was exhausting. Imagine trying to make your earlobes bend. That's what it seems like you're up against when you try to find new pathways in your brain. I have enormous respect for what Jill Taylor has accomplished. Few people could do it. Jill Taylor has managed to recover much of her pre-stroke former brilliance. It is inspiring and informative to learn what she went through. I have a few problems with her writing style and with some of her insights. But, they are minor compared with the book as a whole.

Just finished reading it and I am totally wow'd. I see this book as required reading for everyone if we are ever going to evolve into the higher consciousness we need to attain peace and tranquility, on an individual basis as well as globally. I am no scientist so her 'dipping' into the technicalities of how the brain actually works was a challenge for me but I was still fascinated. When she described feelings, it was very easy to identify with her. Her work should certainly be required reading for anyone in the medical profession, especially nurses! Overall it is a very easy read with profound insight into how our minds work and the ultimate control we have over that power. As for inspiration...unparalleled! My biggest take-away was the reassurance in her assertion that our brains have the plasticity that we need to overcome any setback. I am going to purchase several more copies to give to people as gifts and it is on my list of books to read over again!

This book actually gives great insight into the brain of a stoke victim. I heard Jill Taylor on Ted talks and purchased the book. If anyone you know is at risk for a stroke or has had a stroke this will reveal not only what parts of the stroke affected brain control which parts of the body but guides you on how to respond to stroke victim, the timeline expectation of recovery and how the brain can establish new pathways in order to be functional again with therapy. Great book.

I love how Jill Bolte Taylor describes the entire experience she lived through in her life. She does it in a way that is so educational and leaves me wanting to know more. Her book helped spark my own curiosity because of how I lived through Conversion Disorder. It was something where my brain shut down and I had to rebuild and reclaim my own life. This book is in the top tier of my all-time favorites.

I have a friend who had a stroke; her sister was treating her terribly. When I found this book, I asked my friend to give it to her sister. She finally understood the process her sister was going through and finally backed off. The book really allows people to understand what is actually transpiring during and after a stroke. Well worth reading.

Jill Bolte Taylor is a brain specialist...and she had a debilitating stroke. She has been able to remember the experience and the recovery so that she has gone on to help shape programs for stroke rehabilitation. There is a great lecture of hers you can find on YouTube. I think it's also called My Stroke of Insight and might be about a half hour long. I can't remember exactly. It was making the Facebook and email rounds a while back and viewing it is why I ended up seeking out and buying the book. Jill also has family member with mental illness...so do I...and I became aware of a shortage of brains to study to learn more. So I've gone through the process to donate my brain to Harvard Brain Bank when I die (hey, it's the only way *I'll* ever get into Harvard!). If the topic is of interest, I think you'll like the book. Very accessible, not bogged down in academic writing style.

According to the American Heart Association, between 1999 and 2009 the relative rate of stroke death fell by 37% and the actual number of stroke deaths declined by 23%. Still, stroke is a leading cause of disability in the U.S. Jill Bolte Taylor, Ph.D., is a neuroanatomist who is currently affiliated with the Indiana University School of Medicine. At a young age Taylor was drawn to a career in neurobiology by a fascination with her brother's schizophrenia. At the age of 35 Taylor was elected, as the youngest board member ever, to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) where her brother's schizophrenia still played a large role in her career. Working with NAMI Taylor realized that there was a large gap between the amount of brains needed for mental illness research and the amount of brains being donated by those suffering from a mental illness. This realization led Taylor to her work with the Harvard Brain Bank, of which she is currently the national spokesperson. While working for the Harvard Brain Bank Taylor suffered from a rare type of stroke which required risky surgery to offer her the chance of returning to "normal." After eight years of hard work Taylor felt that she had fully recovered in every aspect. Since her recovery Taylor has started her own non-profit Brains, Inc., which promotes education, awareness, and appreciation of the human brain. My Stroke of Insight: A Brain Scientist's Personal Journey earns four out of five stars because Taylor does a very good job making sure the reader understands the science behind her situation through visual aids, simple language, and through defining terms that may be unfamiliar to her audience while also providing a human element, making for a great read. Taylor clearly illustrates from a neuroanatomist's view, both the fascinating and frightening aspects of strokes. Taylor goes into detail about the different parts of the brain and how they relate to one another as well as the rest of the body. She also describes in detail the different types of strokes and how they can occur. As Taylor explains, her stroke was a rare form due to an arteriovenous malformation (AVM), or simply, an abnormal connection between an artery and a vein. Where arteries meet veins, blood goes from high pressure to low pressure. In order for the blood to safely go from high pressure in an artery to the low pressure in a vein a capillary acts as a buffer. Taylor explains that AVMs in the brain can easily burst because AVMs lack a capillary bed to act as a buffer between the vein and artery. Taylor even provides a visual aid of what this connection looks like for someone with an AVM and another figure of a normal ateriovenous formation so the reader can compare the two. When the AVM bursts blood flows into the brain and can have devastating, life threatening effects and is then classified as a stroke. This is just one of many examples of how Taylor ensures that the reader understands the science behind her situation through visual aids, simple language, and defining terms that they may be unfamiliar with. Taylor recalls the morning of her stroke vividly and with a sense of wonder, which is why it is both interesting and disturbing. While blood began to spill out into the different areas of her brain different functions were effected and Taylor makes sure to explain, using diagrams and simple language, what area of her brain is being affected every step of the way. For example, when Taylor cannot remember a phone number to call for rescue she helps the reader to understand this in terms of neuroanatomy. Because Taylor's stroke occurred on the left side of her brain, where the brain processes numerical information, she basically lost her entire concept of what numbers were. I found it very interesting to read about the specialization of the different areas in the brain as they related to the progressing symptoms of Taylor's stroke. While being extremely informative on the anatomy and function of the brain regions, Taylor also expresses her wonderment at her own brain in what can only be described as a transcendent and ethereal way. I enjoyed this aspect of the book because although neuroscience can sometimes seem to explain away the human experience, Taylor focused on her feelings in a near death experience in a knowledgeable way that still conveyed just how amazing our brains truly are. Another interesting aspect of this book is Taylor's complete recovery. As Taylor explains, her attitude, knowledge of neuroplasticity, and mother/caregiver all played a large role in her successful recovery. However, Taylor fails to go into much depth about the concept and scientific support regarding neuroplasticity. She describes the process of retraining her brain and relearning certain things but a clear understanding of neuroplasticity is never unestablished. Instead she focuses on the large role her mother played as her caregiver. While this is touching, it fails to address the neuroscience behind her recovery. I agree that a strong support system is key to recovery but because neurons do not grow back once they die I was really looking forward to Taylor's explanation of how, scientifically, she made a full recovery. With how much Taylor's AVM bled when it burst she is very lucky to have been able to make a full recovery and she leaves the reader wanting more information on how her recovery was possible. Despite overlooking the scientific aspect of Taylor's recovery, I was not disappointed with the book which proved to be a very compelling and interesting read. While explaining each and every step of her brain functions ceasing and then fully recovering, Taylor manages to keep the reader amazed at the beauty of brain function. She does this by pointing out what part of her brain was effected by her stroke and how it caused certain symptoms, like the motor cortex and her inability to lift her right arm. Visual aids and basic definitions help the reader to understand and appreciate the complexity of the human brain. Her recovery is inspirational. People take for granted that their brain controls literally everything about them from their heartbeat to their personalities. Reading this book helps you to realize how interesting and important your brain is and how often it is overlooked.

An excellent and insightful book about experiencing a stroke ("being" or "right brain")and what it means ("understanding" or "left brain") and the connections and differences between the two. I liked the inside/ experiential take on having a stroke an living through the experience. I appreciated the attempt to articulate the ineffable ("step to the right") that the experience brought to the centre. I disliked that the book transitioned into "how-to manual" space for doing mindfulness. I agreed with all the ideas and the value of the practices-- I just wasn't looking for the convincing effort. I would have reduced the language of stroke "recovery". The central idea is that a new self is the outcome, which is *not* the linear expectation. People outside the experience of discontinuity described in the book might see a recovery story, but this is not the framework that feels right.

This true account was more than helpful right at a time my partner had a stroke. Fear changed to understanding of how the brain heals through time & therapy. Seems weird, but I began to feel blessed to be part of the process. I had to own the book...a library copy wasn't good enough...I wanted it as a reference for helping others & myself. I am thankful. A MUST READ

A neurologist gives subjective impressions about her burst blood vessel in the brain. It took her eight years to recover. Not much useful info on how to handle the challenges of an embolytic stroke or practical considerations such as living alone, etc. She does provide a checklist for caregivers to diagnose a 2nd stroke, since you only have a few hours for the anti-coagulant to prevent brain damage. She was lucky she had her mother, which shows all of us that we need backup in the event of an accident that disables us. If you're seeking recovery from a stroke, see the reviews for acetyl-l-carnitine (ALCAR) & taurine, both available on Amazon. ALCAR restored my brain to voice connection to its state prior to my stroke. Lef.com & the Mayo Clinic website have further information on ALCAR & taurine. Dr Fuhrman's book, "End Of Heart Disease" will help prevent ever having a stroke.

Fabulous book everyone should read. You learn about signs of strokes for you and others. It is written in a way where you want to continue reading. It makes sense and tells an important story. It really helps when dealing with friends or family members have had loved ones have strokes. I think every care provider should read it.

Strokes can be severely debilitating. Recovery is often slow and rarely full.

Everyone should read this. It will help you save a life someday; it will teach you a lot about how your brain works, and what you can do with it... and it will teach you compassion, because strokes happen to anyone from young kids, to your grandparents. Not a scientific primer, you won't get a headache trying to understand - because as a neuroscientist who studied the brain, and a stroke survivor, she explains it ALL in simple, and interesting language. If you know ANYONE who has had a stroke, years ago of days ago - make sure that those around them have this book, and if they are able to read, make sure they have a copy for themselves, and to share with all their loved ones. My Mom had 2 massive strokes this spring and was not expected to live. Luckily, I had seen this author do a presentation about stroking - and it made a big difference in how I 'pushed' a small local ER to get Mom to a bigger trauma hospital - and it saved her life. And encouraged me and my Dad tremendously. 10 months later, Mom can swallow & eat again, talk, walk, move. And finally even read again. One of her greatest encouragements is this author and this book. Even if you don't know anyone who has had a stroke, read this. It will help you recognize stroke symptoms, and you may really need to know it, because not all Doctors even get it. And in knowing, you may save a life of a stranger, or someone you love, young or old.

Why is a book about a brain scientist's experience of having a stroke gracing the pages of my religion blog? Because it was a religious experience. Jill's massive stroke caused the left half of her brain to shut down. The side responsible for linear, logical thinking. So what remains? It's not so much that the two hemispheres process different information; a person can survive with only half a brain. The difference is in the way the two sides think. To the right side, no time exists but the present moment, and each moment is vitally alive, the moment of now being timeless and abundant. Our right mind is the big-picture side, spontaneous and carefree, imaginative and artistic, uninhibited and empathic. We walk in the shoes of another and feel their feelings from the right side of our brain. By contrast, the left side of our brain is detail-oriented. It is organized and deductive, logical and analytical, able to divide past from present from future. Our left brain conquers the world we live in. Our left brain is also the part of us most responsible for identifying the I. It carefully draws the boundaries between us and the rest of the world, protects us from hurt, preserves our precious identity. It revels in our individuality and strives for our independence. So, what happens when you find all sense of I gone, and you're left swimming in a universal and eternal sea of brotherhood, suddenly at one with the universe? And, more important: Can we tap the right side of our brains? Drive fast to your bookstore and pick up this book. Go now.

This is an excellent book by a brain scientist who had a major stroke, observed it and lived to tell about it . It articulates what happens, how the mind deteriorates, why one doesn't call 911 when experiencing it, what alternative realities feel like, vulnerability, and recovery dos and don'ts. It gives you a thorough insight into the whole process of a stroke from beginning to full recovery. The need for compassion and patience for both the patient and the caregiver. I highly recommend it very highly.

This is a very interesting book. The author's descriptions of the physical aspects of a stroke were fascinating as well as terrifying! Her spiritual views are pretty "out there", but those are easy to ignore if you wish and just focus on the physical symptoms and sensations. Her descriptions of what helped her with recovery were eye-opening to me, and helped me relate to a friend who is recovering from a TBI.

Bought this for a dear friend who recently had a stroke and is paralyzed on right side of body and can't speak. Hoping this will give her some encouragement. I bought this book for myself years ago and loved it. Very good reading.

Jill Bolte Taylor's little book is three powerful books in one. First, it's an amazing testimony of her experience as a neuroanatomist (a research scientist specializing in the physical workings of the brain) who undergoes a severe stroke. She gives a brief description of her family history and writes about what drew her to the study of brain science, then describes what she remembers of the experience of losing multiple key brain functions due to her stroke, and finally speaks about what she and others did that helped her to make a total recovery. Second, her book is a brief but eloquent explanation of how the human brain works. And third, it's an evangelical plea to employ the brain's full capacity to live an irenic life in meaningful relationship with one's fellow creatures and in harmony with the universe. It is likely that some readers will favor one part of this book over the others. I suspect there are those who will find the last third of the book to be a little too spiritual and "New Age-y," but I enjoyed this section a great deal. If nothing else, I found it reassuring to know that everyone has the ability to deploy the right-brain's capacity to seek unity and to see the big picture as a way to let go of worrisome judgments (of self and others). As Bolte Taylor says, "My stroke of insight is that at the core of my right hemisphere consciousness is a character that is directly connected to my feeling of deep inner peace. It is completely committed to the expression of peace, love, joy, and compassion in the world." The two appendices, "Ten Assessment Questions" and "Forty Things I Needed the Most" are worth photocopying and keeping with your Living Will so that loved ones will know how to help your recovery should you ever experience a stroke. Kindle readers should know that all the diagrams of the brain that are found in the print book are included in the electronic book as well.

Could not put his book down! Very life-affirming and inspiring. Such a fascinating description of what it is like to have a stroke, as well as recover from it. Our mind and body’s capacity to heal is remarkable. The book also puts life in a different perspective and lets you look at it from a different angle. Made me want to work on activating my right hemisphere way more. Plus, the book is so beautifully written! Highly recommend

I highly recommend this book! The account of Jill's stroke, of what it felt like to be in her body during that time, had me so intrigued! It was hard to put the book down at times. I've always been interested in brain research and function. It was amazing to read about it from a brain expert's point-of-view. It also actually brought me some peace thinking about loved ones who have had strokes... just knowing that there are some positive emotions, feelings, sensations that can happen when a stroke occurs. And I loved her explanations of her experiences with others who came to visit her, or those who cared for her- the energy that each person carried with them, and the impact it had on her healing. I like the idea of taking responsibility for the energy each of of us emits when we interact with others. And of learning to live with more balance between the brain hemispheres... bringing in the right brain's strengths and letting go of the left brain ego and (sometimes) judgmental side. How uplifting. Finally, I love Jill's message of hope and love, and of the brain's amazing capacity, adaptation, and healing -- its plasticity. I checked this book out from our library, and then bought if from amazon because I wanted my own copy. Now I'm lending it out to many others in my family.

A brilliantly written book by a neuroscientist, charting her recovery from a massive brain haemorrhage. For me, a cognitive behavioural therapist, the most astounding part was Jill's ability to recognise when neuronal circuits responsible for negative thinking began to kick it - and how to deal with them, short circuiting them and building positive circuits in their place. Simply describing this to a professional who came for counselling helped her realise that it was possible to combat a life time of anxiety and depression. And, after a few sessions, knowing this basic truth - she is seeing positive changes in her thinking and in her life. I regularly recommend it to my counsellees and friends. It's a nicely written book; clear and compassionate. I'm going to read it again, just to enjoy it. Thank you, Ms Bolte Taylor.

Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor has put together an awesome book! My Stoke of Insight: A Brain Scientists Personal Journey is extremely well written. What are the odds that someone with such extraordinary knowledge of the brain and at the height of her career would have a stroke at the age of 37 and live to share such an amazing journey with us? That, coupled with her talent as a writer is unique and extremely interesting. This book is written on a level that average people can comprehend. Step-by-step the author describes how she felt, how others treated her, and what happened to her brain and abilities during her left brain deterioration beginning on December 10, 1996 and the 8 year healing process she endured. The author explains her nirvana like existence when her right brain was dominant while her left brain was healing. Her ability to live in the moment and observe her thoughts in a detached manner to reach a peaceful state as a result of her connection to her right brain is described by many other authors as "Mindfulness Meditation." [See my other reviews if you are interested in reading other books on this technique.] Enthralled with the story, I could not put this book down. I doubt that there is another book written by a person with firsthand expert knowledge of what it is like to have and recover from a stroke. I am glad I read this book and recommend it to people who are interested in study of the brain or those who like biographical stories of people who not only survive, but grow out of the depths of catastrophe.

Great insights -- an observation of who we are beyond the physical bounds. I found the writer's description of her experience of her right brain working fully, while the left brain had shut down, fascinating. When judgement and the ability to name things is gone, the mind is flooded with acceptance, peace and love. This book is mostly a guide to understanding and how to help people who have had strokes, but some of the conclusions she draws as to the brain's working are fascinating.

I'm a neuro nurse, and I thought it would be interesting to read about a stroke from a patient's perspective. I loved this book. I learned so much, and gathered much insight into a patient's feelings, wants, and needs while recovering from a stroke. This was a fascinating read and I'm recommending it to all of my coworkers, nurses, PT, OT, SLP, everyone!

25 years ago, my grandmother suffered a massive left hemisphere stroke that left her half paralyzed and unable to speak. That was a traumatic experience for me and all my family. My beloved grandma died 5 days later, probably of pneumonia. But I always feared to enter her mind during those 5 days in ICU, wondering what it would be like to be buried alive, figuratively, after a massive stroke. So I read this book with trepidation but I am glad I did because it is an enormously positive book, partly because Jill Taylor's outcome was positive. If it hadn't have been, the book would probably not have been written, naturally. The advice towards the end sounds a lot like what Zen masters and other spiritual teachers say, so that tantalizing link makes it more believable and also makes us wonder about spiritual experiences. The only disappointment I must voice is that there is no real practical advice for those of us who haven't had strokes (and don't want to have one in order to become spiritually advanced!) I know, I know... meditation. This merely proves that there is a link between brain function and spiritual states, and also proves that we as a culture are not there yet, with regards to advancing spiritually en masse. We have a long ways to go and the vehicles that can take us there are not easy to drive!

This is clearly one of the BEST books I've ever read. The story of her stroke on the left side of her brain, leaving the right in control, is fascinating. Even though I'm a biologist and love this kind of book, it's something EVERYONE should read!

I want to give this book to every preacher I know because they are often at the hospital bedsides of people who have strokes. This story helped me understand what a person who has just experienced a stroke may be going through. It helped me to see the situation differently, and I plan to read it again just to make sure I didn't miss something.

From the point of view of a family member of a stroke patient, this book is definately informative. I didn't care for the latter chapters about how we could change the world if we could use the other side of our brains more. I found that interesting but when I read it I was looking for more practical answers to my family member's specific issues so perhaps that is why that portion didn't appeal to me as much. I do appreciate her remarks about her experiences that are different from the way medical profession treats strokes (i.e. the need for much more sleep than the hospitals/rehab allow you). This is a must read for any family member of stroke patient.

This is a remarkable book and an amazing story. The personal reflections of a neuroscientist who has a stroke at a young age are not to be disregarded as important information about brain function even though it is not a study in controlled settings. In fact, controlled studies could never have been able to sample and document such an occurrence. And, in a way, the story of recovery from this injury also seems to hint at the possibility of greater psychological freedom for us all as the left brain with all its worries, time preoccupations and narrow confines of personal interest, seems to have usurped our sense of consciousness to block integrative efforts of the right brain that appears to have the ability see a far wider picture of our lives than the domineering efforts of the left brain. I think Ms. Taylor has discovered something that needs more investigation. Perhaps it is a source of sanity that has eluded human kind from the start.

Dr. Taylor amazing story has been adequately covered in over 90 reviews. I would like to suggest an educational aspect of her story, that is, that we can control our thoughts (including our anger) to our great advantage. From the editorial questions for Jill Taylor: "It took only 90 seconds for me to have an emotional circuit triggered, flush a physiological response through my body and then flush completely out of me. We can all learn that we can take full responsibility for what thoughts we are thinking and what emotional circuitry we are feeling. Knowing this and acting on this can lead us into feeling a wonderful sense of well-being and peacefulness." In her book she refers to "brain chatter." The brain is constantly evaluating the current situation and recommending some course of action. We generally act on these suggestions without making a decision relative to selection or disregarding of the thought. For example, I have found this knowledge of thought selection so valuable particularly with respect to anger. Now, when I become angry and want to retaliate I realize that I can decide whether I want to "go there." I let the 90 seconds past and let it flush out of my system. A sense of well-being and peacefulness indeed. I recommend that any reader go to Dr. Taylor's website and review her amazing 18 minute video of her of presentation to the TED conference.

An amazing story. Watching the progression of ones own brain attack with momentary understanding and historical perspective, the author presents insights helpful to potential victims of similar experiences. Strokes run in my maternal line. Having watched my mother during hers, I have new understanding. Reflecting on my minor brain attack, I feel hopeful that I can activate the gift on neural plasticity if I need to.

I first listened to this book months ago when a friend let me borrow it. I purchased it this time to give to someone who recently lost a loved one. The author tells a quite credible story about what she experienced in the hospital after she had a stroke. As a neuroscientist, she was aware of what was happening to her from that perspective. But what she didn't expect was the incredible, almost indescribable, love she felt when part of her brain shut down, which almost made her reluctant to "return to that molecular mass" that was her physical being. I'd recommend this book to anyone. It gives you hope that there's something wonderful surrounding us, something wonderful waiting for us when we leave this earth. I'd especially recommend the audio version. It's really nice to hear the story from the actual person who experienced this. I was also pleased with the seller. The CD arrived in a few days, which was important because I was cutting it close before my trip (to see the person I was giving this to).

I recently had a hemoragic stroke. Fortunately it was not as massive as Jill Taylor's stroke. She helped both me and those immediately around me to understand what happened to me which expedited my recovery. Her discussion of neuroplasicity and her recovery was a message of hope, encouragement and success. See her at TED on YouTube at [...] ****HER APPENDIX B ("FORTY THINGS I NEEDED MOST") CONCISELY LISTS HOW PEOPLE WOULD LIKE TO BE TREATED WHO HAVE STROKES. Although not all points were direcly applicable to me, she greatly helped me and other people better understand how poeple who have suffered brain injuries would like to be treated. This saved me a lot of time and reduced my frustration. (I was relieved that other people had the same feelings and she summarized them so succinctly.) *** Her book is invaluable and her sincerity about helping is illustrated by the very reasonable price of her book as contrasted to some who profess to help, but they price their products so high that access is limited. P.S. kept short to emphasize insights and help offered by "My Stroke of Insight"

This book is so insightful because it comes from a lover of the brain, who actually experiences a stroke and takes us through every step of her experience from the inside out. This author of this book is top notch as an individual too!! I reached out to her when my mother-in-law had a stroke and not only did she take the time to respond, she actually followed up with me. She is truly a rare treasure!!!

I highly recommend this non-fiction book. The author is a neuroscientist who had a stroke at age 38. Because of her background she was able to figure out what was going on as she was having the stroke and understand what it would take for her to recover. Besides telling her story, she has a lot of practical advice for dealing with stroke victims, e.g., don't shout at them -- they aren't stupid, they just can't access the language part of their brain for a while. Recovery takes time and patience and a lot of sleep. The book also helped me, as an artist, to understand which parts of my brain I am using while I paint. It has helped me get "in the zone" (right brain) where I am the most creative and to plan out my composition and draw logically (left brain). Also, knowledge I gained from this book has improved my sleep. Imagine that!

Dr. Taylor embarked on her academic journey seeking to discover the organic cause of schizophrenia, the disease that tormented her brother. Well into the research phase of her career, Dr. Taylor's brain experienced an organic failure of its own. The story of her experience and recovery was interesting enough, and her thoughts regarding in effect volitionally rewiring the brain to think positively have a grain of truth. Dr. Taylor's stroke caused organic damage that left her with what was in many ways a blank brain slate. I did not begin to understand the cellular dynamic that allowed Dr. Taylor's brain to heal. But I do know that not all organic mental health disease - which we may discover some day is all mental health disease - can be vanquished by an act of will. Dr. Taylor was in a unique position to do a forensic examination of her versus her brothers' non-volitional organic brain illness. The workings of the brain are as much a mystery to us today as the workings of the body were 200 years ago, and perhaps she didn't address it because she just doesn't know. But "I don't know" is a totally acceptable answer - sometimes the most important thing is to ask the question.

My interest in this book was piqued by the understanding it continues to provide me with my own brain training. Aware that I could find myself at any time facing rehabilitation from injury or organic failures it is important for me to maintain good fitness and continued training and education. The story of the author's self-care following a massive, potentially fatal stoke is inspiring and powerful - I first used a library copy and could only read a few pages at a time. Even more to my mind was the value of the teachings of how she managed to come back to full capacity - over 8 years - and productive teaching was tremendously helpful - so much so, that I did what I have often been tempted to do but never did - I bought 10 copies - one for each member of my family and one for each of the five fitness teachers I work with every week at my local fitness center.

I really enjoyed reading this book. It was fascinating to read step-by-step and moment-by-moment, from her own perspective, as Dr. Taylor's brain function deteriorated as a result of her stroke. I felt much admiration for her as she described her attempts to get help - from the first realization she needed help to the enormous focus and patience required to just dial the phone to get that help. Reading about the recovery stage after her stroke was also very interesting and inspiring. She was very fortunate to have a mother who had the right balance of patience and firmness to assist her in returning to a person who has the use of both sides of her brain. I believe Dr. Taylor's trust in her own healing process was also instrumental in her recovery. I wondered, as I read the book, how it was possible for someone with such profound damage to her brain to remember, after she recovered, what her thoughts and feelings had been while that damage was occurring. Her recollection as written was not vague, but very specific. Perhaps she explains that on her website - I'll have to go look. This book was a good read - interesting and inspiring. I'm glad I bought it. Alexandra Aina, co-author of

My husband suffered a massive hemhorragic stroke in April of this year(2017). This book gave me insight as to what my husband is going through. I often wondered whether he knew what I was saying because he could not talk to me at first. Because I do not know what he is feeling or thinking or wanting, I wondered about those things or even if he was thinking at all. It has helped me to be more in touch with his needs during the healing process. i have always had hope for a complete healing, but now I feel even more hopeful after reading My Stroke of Insight.

Speechless (right side of my brain). The insight in this book was only possible because the right person, a Harvard Neuroanatomist, experienced what life was like when the left half of her brain shut down (due to a stroke) and she became a scientific observer documenting the dramatic changes on her thoughts and feelings. Her particular experience had as much to do with the area of the brain that had the stroke injury. The site of her injury resulted in the constant worrisome chatter from the left side of her brain to stop. She says she experienced the silence, peace, and joy that had always been available on her right side but which had been previously drowned out by her verbal left side. As she healed and her left side came back on line she realized that she had the ability to choose which part of her brain to listen to. She could let her left side which she calls her anxious storyteller brain worry about the future or the past or she could choose to return to her peaceful right side - which lives in the present. This is a must read because it challenges the reader to understand that we have a choice in how we feel and experience life. Brilliant!

At age 37 Jill Bolte Taylor was a neuroanatomist working at Harvard's Brain Bank when she suffered a massive stroke that flooded the left hemisphere of her brain with blood. She was amazed at what was happening to her and thought "Isn't this cool!" before coming to grips with the reality that she needed help. She was reduced to infanthood in her capabilities to deal with life, but what was left of her scientist's mind kept observing her situation. She realized she'd lost personality traits that were better left lost, so she consciously supervised the return of her left brain functions. It took eight years. Her reflections on this process somewhat parallel Eckhart Tolle's ideas on the need to get away from defensive ego reactions and approach others in a more open and loving manner. She points out that the strong emotional reactions we sometimes experience are physiological in nature and course through our bodies in 90 seconds. By waiting until the physical reaction has passed ("count to ten") we have much better control over our response. While not a great literary work (grammar mistakes!), My Stroke of Insight is a wonderful story from which much can be learned.

Dr Taylor's journey while uniquely her own has so much to offer to those working through a brain injury. I had started this a few years after my aneurysm but put it down early on. I picked it up while my daughter was writing a paper on concussions and TBI. I found I had arrived at several of the same conclusions as the author. It took years to come to terms with the events and to realize most importantly how respecting the brains need for rest is critical, One can't will the brain to repair itself, you need to adjust to a new normal. This book is a road map for recovery..

As a spouse of a current brain aneurism injured person, Jill's experience and suggestions have been very helpful. So far, for us the times in the ICU (3 weeks) and 2 weeks so far in a SNF have been stressful but also uplifting in the small steps of recovery made each day. Recovery IS going to be a long journey and the final endpoint is uncertain. This book gives you some knowledge of things to expect, how to provide help, what is helpful and what is not. I have found some good professionals ( nurses, therepists, etc.) had not heard or read this book so I purchased several paperback copies and gave them out. I continue to seek additional real life accounts combined with my faith to help us through this journey. Creating and using a CaringBridge site is another resource of emotional and spiritual strength needed for the journey.

My neurologist suggested this book and after first checking it out from the library, I ordered a copy to have as a reference. Part of the book outlines tips for persons visiting or caring for someone with a brain injury. She also give tips for finding emotional healing and is honest about her struggles. Dr. Taylor gives practical advice on how to enhance brain circuits that are beneficial and eliminate or diminish those that are not. A very uplifting book.

A friend recommended this book to me after I had a small stroke at 52. Her mother had read it after her stroke and highly rcommended it. I am so glad that I read it. I did not have lingering physical handicaps after my episode, but felt completely exhausted just a few hours after getting out of bed in the morning. None of my doctors warned me of this symptom. Once I read about Dr. Taylor's experience, not only did I confirm my sense of how lucky I was to get off so lightly, I learned that fatigue was normal, and what contributed to it, and how to deal with it. Her "insight" was invaluable to me. I think every doctor that deals with stroke patients should read this book and tell their patient's about it. Anyone dealing with a family member or friend that has suffered a stroke would get a lot out of this book. She does a great job of explaining what happened to her in a easy to follow way. Even if you don't have a stroke "connection" her experience is really unbelievable and interesting. Even the big "insight" part of her journey where she relates how the different sides of the brain process information and how she learned to live differrently as a result was interesting. I am not into spiritual lessons and tend to shy away from books that are of that vein, but I did not find this heavy handed or preachy. It was a great read and a fascinating tale.

This book has been a God send! When I was suddenly diagnosed with a brain tumor and the doctors told us I needed Brain Surgery, that phrase affected us just like "it's not Rocket Science, y'know". But then realized that this meant both a craniotomy and meningiectomy -- truly opening up the skull and exposing the brain. Yet somehow that seems to be the easier part -- no one prepared us for the after-effects! This book put into words what I was experiencing before and after surgery yet was unable to properly explain. It also helped me to understand what was "normal" and to be expected. Brain surgery is different for everyone, and it is not a 4-6 wk recovery like most other surgeries! This book walks through every step in the recovery process, and as far as I'm concerned, this is a must have for both patient and family/caretakers.

I loved reading this book. The author is an outstanding human. I'm so glad that she narrated her experience for the world. She gives us confidence to live well through understanding what's going on in that thick skull of ours. This book was a pleasure to read.

A brilliant book. I've bought several copies and given them away to deserving friends who could appreciate Jill Bolte Taylor's masterpiece. Dr. Taylor had a stroke; a bleed started in her left brain and her database was all but wiped out. She had enough courage in the morning when the bleed started and her thought processes and data were being wiped away, to call a colleague at Harvard Medical School and was able to make him understand that he needed to send help. With the support of her sensitive and intelligent mother, she started the very lengthy healing process back to health. Dr. Taylor learned a great deal about herself during her journey back which inevitably changed her. She became more sensitive, more humane, more human and, if anything, even more intelligent, coming to understand differently how and what to achieve. It's an overwhelming book.

Been there done that. I had a stroke while driving on I-40 near Little Rock Arkansas and spent 9 minutes driving with no conscious awareness of where I was or where I was going. Totally at peace even though I had run into a construction Barrel. I ended up in an abandoned Citgo gas station and I knew I was there even though the sign was pixelated and unreadable to me. The good doctor was dead on in describing what I was experiencing. Great insights. Thank you

If you ever wondered how you brain (and "you") really works, this is a book to explore. The experience of a stroke seen from the view of a neuroscientist is presented in a dispassionate but deeply personal manner. Dr. Bolte Taylor writes clearly and simply but I was enthralled. She presents enough "science" to inform, but without putting off non-scientists. That said, the heart of the book is what she discovered beyond the science of the experience: the marvelous and miraculous universe that exists in us all, if we just connect to it. And she expands that universe beyond the personal without any particular religious bias, but through that same objective/scientific viewpoint. Another facet of the book are her observations and recommendations about how to better understand and support those who have suffered a stroke or other neurological accident. They are invaluable. And obviously, she knows what she is talking about. The book is short, but compelling and packed wiith material. As an aside, I would recommend that you view the video of her that is accessible either through her website or just by Googling her name. Hearing and seeing her talk about the experience heightens and deepens your appreciation of her and what she shares. I highly recommend you read this if you are a curious and open minded person. It is a book that can change your life.

This book has made a profound difference in my life. I saw Jill Bolte Taylor's Ted Talk and wanted to know more, so I bought this book. It was written so well, that I could not put it down. For me, it was a scientific page-tuner. It was also a book written directly from the heart. This book has taught me to connect more with the right side of my brain. I now gain great joy out of just feeling, listening, and being in the moment. In particular, I love to take long walks around my neighborhood letting my right brain delight in finding all the big and tiny patterns that surround us in everyday life...like Jill recommends, I start seeing the spaces between things rather than the things themselves. I've recommended this books to many of my friends.

I would have liked more details and less metaphysical stuff. She has a very good description of having her stroke in the early part of the book, but the last couple chapters are way to ethereal, "touchy-feely", metaphysical, and way out there for me. She seemed to be going out of her way to avoid giving God any credit for her healing, or for that matter, even existing; seemed to me to be trying to cover all the spiritual (small "s") bases and not offend anyone. I don't need a sermon, but I wish she had just picked a belief system and stuck with it. I don't need read all about all her searching for the "Great Spirit" or whatever. The book could have been a bit longer also. I would recommend this for anyone who is at risk of a stroke or who has had one, or if you have had a family member who had one. Just be advised that if you want a lot of practical advice, you will need to buy another book, this one deals more with feelings and emotions.

Learned SO MUCH about what happened to me mult times. 13 years 4 inncodents like this nothing on MRI. Takes years to recover each time in my 30s and 40s. Without diagnosis there has been no treatment. Reading this book has helped me to understand that the brain issue I have has was my left brain. I learned SO MUCH!

Our daughter-in-law had an AVM in her brain in mid-February, the same type of injury as the author had. The author’s profession prior to her issue was as a brain researcher, and her book details not only what happened, but also her recovery process. A most informative, relatively non-technical read for anyone seeking to learn more about what a stroke is, what might cause it, and the issues with which to deal during the recovery process. Highly recommended!

I had a stroke and this book gave me valuable insight into my healing process. No one, not even my doctors, gave me a clue that I was a normal stroke survivor! So I am grateful that I, too, found my stoke of insight. And family members who also read it were better equipped to walk along side me in my journey.

I have referred this book to so many people. She is able to teach in such a clear, simple way the function of our brain and what the right side does and what the left side does. I have found this information helpful in understanding and healing the EGO

My husband's best friend, at the age of 48, suffered a severe stroke. While he has made great strides in improvement in 4 yrs, his stroke is still apparant. He has even read this book and recommends it. This book helped me understand what he went through, and still goes through. Though the content was excellent and ground breaking (from an insiders perspective who happens to study the brain), towards the last 1/4 of the book, I felt it was disorganized and repetitive. I get it, she wants to get back to the state of "in the moment/nirvana". I am even interested in the subject matter of spirituallity. But even I got a little impatient with the ongoingness. I know I would have read this book even without my husband's friend's stroke. I recommend this book on its content and on the merits of it's unique insights into stroke patients....and Jill is definitely a charismatic person. I just think the writing fell apart a little toward the end.

I had seen Jill Bolte Taylor's video on TED and was charmed and the book goes into greater depth. The first chapter has a lot of info on the actual workings of the brain but is largely understandable and the rest of the book reads like a novel; a wonderfully uplifting story and full of insights that we all can use, whether we have had strokes ourselves or are caring for those that have. It also reads well for those who are adapting to the natural changes age brings to our mates and ourselves. The author obviously had a life changing experience akin to an religious awakening or a psychedelic drug experience...valuable lessons about recognizing our individual oneness with the universe. Altho she is a scientist this is not a scientific book, it is written from her newly accessed, creative right side of her brain, not her critical left.

One of my favorite reads-insight is right. Recommend to anyone- stroke survivor or not- valuable and life changing views on our brain, its function and its ability to heal and our conscious thought to choose how we think, feel, and evolve.

This is an amazing true account of a brain scientists journey during and after she experienced a stoke. I feel this is a book everyone should read. You never know when you, a friend, or family member will have this happen to them. Very deep and complex in some places as you would expect from someone with her education. I found it a very educational and informative book. Bless you Jill for sharing your incredible journey.

I avoided this book for years because my dad had a stroke and was paralized for 8 years before dying when he was 75. But this book is very uplifting. It also teaches the layman a lot about brains. Not only do you learn about her amazing recovery but you learn about your own brain as well. When she describes the bliss she felt when her right brain was the ONLY viable brain running the show, it helps you understand what each brain half contributes. She talks about the plasticity and recovery power of the brain - and contrasts it to what parts of the brain (in the limbic region) don't change over time. It helps you understand you old triggers and that you can't really CHANGE Them... at best you can bring awareness to them... and hope to have other parts of your brain help you choose a different reaction... at best :) ANyhow... this book is SOOOOO good that I am stopping reading it because I want it to last. I am SURE I will read it again. I am also listening to it. That is even better. It is so great to hear her story in her own voice.

Having a stroke is an experience that many people have, as a medical condition that is life transforming. This is a wonderful book written by a physician who was able to describe her experience of having the stroke, and what it took to recover from it; the long pathway and personal challenge. This is an excellent book to describe what it is to be a person with this condition, providing an insight into what it feels like to undergo this condition. For many people with this condition, they are unable to express their situation. For those who are curious about strokes, or working with others who may unfortunately have been stricken, this is a good book to gain an insight of where those with strokes (CVA's) may be. ,

I work with people who have disabilities ranging from neuromuscular to spinal cord injuries to the autism spectrum. I train service and therapy dogs and am always looking for a better understanding what they may be going through and change my approach with communication or instruction. I did not know what to expect. I loved the book but I wonder how the author's story compares to the average person who has suffered a stroke. I am passing this book around my office and then around the Independent Living Center that we are a part of. I think it is an important book for anyone from caregivers to doctors to families of people who have suffered a stroke to understand how difficult and how frustrating it is for them.

My late husband invented a device for stroke survivors who had aphasia, but due to his passing we did not get the product to market. After his loss I would give this book to families with a stroke survivor so they would understand the condition and give them hope for recovery of that individual. The book is well written and gives hope to people with aphasia. And, I know it helped individuals.

Soon I will re-read this book, and then likely one more time. It opens a whole new world to reckon with. I want to control my brain and thoughts like the author does. The resiliency of the brain is astonishing. I want to remember every detail about this book, and practice every point she talks about. The book is amazing, the author is amazing.

This short book gave me such great insights into the nature of our brains and the way these brains and the hemispheres enable us to interact with the world around us. I was particularly fascinated with the "interior dialogs" of the left hemisphere and the sense of bliss that was available from the right hemisphere. It gave me an insight how the process of meditation which starts with focus on one's self can lead to feelings of universal relatedness and bliss if the right hemisphere is accessed. Fascinating book

Since I am, in part, studying the effects of psychedelic drugs, (entheogens) I was struck by the similarity between her experience and the oceanic experience. Mysticism also has these similarities. I'm not entirely sure she has mapped her experience perfectly in the brain, but it's an overwhelmingly well written account. Really, this book is a groundbreaker and should be read by everyone in the psychedelic/entheogen field. I'm also not sure that everyone has the same "nice programming" in the non-verbal side of their brain. I find this implicit proposition of the book hard to believe. But those are larger questions to study and even to figure out how to study. So much of science is bereft of the subjective. Having a book that so clearly describes subjective experience in a brain event is most welcome.

Before writing this review, I read both the 5 star and 1 star reviews already submitted on this book. I can honestly say I felt the 1 star people completely misunderstood the truly important messages the author provides us in this book. She gives people hope who struggle with neurocognitive or brain-based medical problems. She highlights in perfect detail the eagerness of the brain to repair itself. Secondly, she helps the reader understand how "our inner voice" (the left brain area) can be turned off, so negative thoughts can be controlled. She also did a fantastic job helping the reader understand the importance of appreciating everyday, how to speak and act toward stroke victims, and recognize good and bad energy in others. These are just a few things I got from these teriffic book. The book is not really 'touchy-feely' at all. It's the celebration of a person who, through very hard work, got her life back, and more.

I found the descriptions of her stoke experience to be facinating, and also somewhat nerve wracking. I kept rooting her on to get some help, dang it! But the purpose of the book - to teach others how to turn off the left brain and access the right to gain peace wasn't well explained. I don't feel like an average person like myself could do it without further instruction. Still, as far as the information concerning strokes - the symptoms and the experience - that was very interesting.

I enjoyed this book a lot, but it wasn't quite what I expected. The first part was exactly what I expected but I expected to learn more about her recovery and how she got her life back rather than what she learned about how she wants to live her life after the stroke. It was more about how her stroke influenced her work or rather contributed to her profession as a brain researcher.

I first heard of this person, and her book, while watching a TED Talk that she gave about this. If you've never seen it, watch it...and then buy the book. Dr. Bolte Taylor's incredible journey, described in intimate detail, will take you through so many details about the brain and how it works, and then go on to describe the events that led to the writing of this book. What she saw...what she experienced...can only be described as wondrous. The initial chapters about the brain can bog you down a bit, especially if that type of stuff doesn't interest you. However, once you get to the part about her stroke, and the resultant experiences she had, that all changes.

For anyone who is interested in how the mind works regarding the processing of raw sensory data into the organized information that we call "consciousness" and "perception", or for anyone who has had a family member or friend with a stroke, this book provides great insight into what is happening. Dr. Taylor describes the occurrence of her stroke and the immediate days and weeks that followed, written with the clarity and precision of a trained neuroanatomist. Dr. Taylor suffered (temporary) loss of the functions of the dominant logical left brain, and discovered the capabilities of the (normally) subordinate right brain. Later chapters describe some of her long-term learnings regarding trusting and relying on the capabilities of her right-brain. The reader has to trust what she writes, something of a "leap of faith", but that really is to be expected when using the logical left-brain's tool of language to describe the contextual perceptual processing of the right brain. The book is easy to pick up and start reading at any spot, and hard to put down. Highly recommended.

As a scientist who has had some "brain work" performed on me, I found this step-by-step explanation of Dr. Taylor's very personal "what's and why's" of her personal journey from near-total-failure to recovery to be a magnificent presentation. It should be required reading for all members of all families (that's a lot of people!) who have had any sort of brain-function upset. Dr.Taylor leaves no stone unturned. It's too much to hope that the general population would care to dip into this wonderful personal story, but there is so much to be learned and understood about this incredibly complex mechanism residing within our skulls that makes us who we are. Dr. Taylor's students are fortunate to be associated with such a gifted communicator. And we are fortunate that she has addressed us with her book.

How good can it get, an expert in the field sharing personal experience of her stroke in a very enlightening book. I have both the book and the audio. Would recommend this to those who have had a stroke and those supporting them

As a 30 year R.N., I knew physiologically exactly what was happening to Dr. Taylor, but most 'lay' people would not, so I greatly appreciated her ability to describe what happens during a stroke in terms and descriptions that could so easily educate non-medical readers..it could possible save someone's life! She is obviously a brilliant human being and researcher whose personal journey is not only educational, but truly inspiring and shows how the power of positive thinking and attitude can be absolutely transformative. A must read for anyone..I've given this book and shared Dr. Taylor's story with a great number of family and friends, as I'm sure you will also.. J.R., Arcata, CA

Sheesh, difficult book to get through. Not the best writing, where's her editor?! Interesting subject and I heard her interviews when the book first came out which is why I got the book.

I had already read My Stroke of Insight by Jill Bolte Taylor, PhD. It was a library loan and I wanted to have that book on hand almost like a handbook on how to treat anyone who had a stroke. So I ordered three books, with the idea to give two away at Christmas. Got the package in no time. Well wrapped. No problem. Prompt delivery. Meanwhile, I've read another book, Don't Leave Me This Way, by Julia Fox Garrison, which tells of a right brain stroke, whereas Bolte's was left brain. Both books made me realize I've got to watch my blood pressure, though those two strokes were aberrant ones indeed, hitting either at 37 years old, and caused by other than high blood pressure or a blockage. Their varied experiences teaches much, and should be required reading for anyone treating or helping a stroke patient.

This was a marvelous book and I'd recommend it to any one who wants to understand how the brain works. It's scientific yet very easy to understand. It is very well written. I read and re-read it on a continual basis. Get the book!

I honestly did not read the whole book. It was too technical for me. However, it was interesting how the author described the different functions of the right/left hemispheres of the brain and how she experienced their functions after her brain injury. I was looking/hoping for something I could relate to (I suffered a TBI three years ago) and was even hoping she would discuss what worked for her as far as treatment. Alas, my search continues. If you are interested in how the different hemispheres of the brain function in relation to daily living, this would be a good read.

I found this to be a very useful text in helping me understand a little more brain science. and on how certain types of stroke affect the brain. This technical aspect of the book was well balanced with the moving account of her recovery and her personal, emotional experience as a patient. The writing style is a little labored, but this didn't detract too much from my overall enjoyment. As well as reading the book I also watched the four episodes of Oprah's Spirit Channel with Jill Bolte Taylor and I found that these helped me understand the book a little better. These are available at [...] and are in the second season of her free Spirit Channel webcasts. Overall, I'd recommend this to anyone interested in learning more about strokes, especially if someone in your family has had a stroke and needs care.

This was by far the best book I have read in a long time. It actually changed my outlook on life. It was inspirational and a real eye-opener. A must read for everyone, not just stroke victims or people with head traumas. The book has great life lessons and practical approaches on how to become not only more at peace with oneself but more grateful and kind. I had been searching for a long time to stop the continual brain chatter. It was exhausting and caused me many migraines. Since having read the book and actually applying the teachings in the book, I have been able to reduce the migraines greatly, feel more peaceful, get a good night's sleep and have someone tell me that I look radiant and full of life. What is better than that! I also wake up feeling grateful. It's something one has to work at but it is achievable.

This will be my 2nd reading if her book. This time because I have an anyurism and I want to brush up on the neuro surgery. Good unfo to have on hand. Thank you for writing this book.

A Great book and a great leader. I find the brain fascinating and the author gives a detailed explanation of how different parts of the brain work from her own personal experience and education and determination. There is hope for everyone who has ever suffered some minor and major brain damage. This book will give you a better understanding that almost anything is possible in the recovery of abilities regardless of the brain damage and the time it takes. The brain keeps working to help us all the time whatever the circumstances. Our brain is very complicated and a miracle worker. Thank You, Doctor Jill Bolte Taylor. I ordered 5 books so I could give them away to friends and loved ones.

It was easy to read yet had enough technical information to be engaging for people that like technical specifics. Some of the concepts are hard to imagine but track what many other people from varying spiritual positions have explained. An interesting insight into how a brain operates in the midst of a stroke and the subsequent recovery process.

I had a friend in this 30's who recently suffered from a stroke. This book was monumental in how I was able to relate to him once he started his recovery. The book goes beyond just the science of the brain and pretty clearly marks a path towards a nirvana we should all be able to access at any point in our lives just by cultivating our thought. A++

I heard about this book from my brother who is a stroke victim. He was working his way through it and his wife told me that he was "very interested in what he was reading". I bought the book and read it in about two days. I was fascinated by the author's description of the 'event' of her own stroke and how she was able to describe the progression of it. She offered lists for those dealing with stroke victims (in the appendix) which I would recommend to read earlier on. I have another friend who is a stroke victim and receives wonderful care but I learned that the way I was dealing with her is probably wrong. I believe now that she really does understand what is being said to her even though she cannot always make sense in her verbal response. (My brother calls people he knows by many different names.) Overall I found the book a wonderful encouragement for me and hopefully for those who work with stroke patients. I gave it as a gift to the nurses where my friend is cared for. I recommend it highly for anyone interested in a first hand experience of a life changing event. The courage and determination shown by the author are commendable.

This book will answer in excruciating detail. Not gory, just well-phrased and intensely involving. If you know anyone who has had a stroke (as I do), you will find this invaluable. Even if you haven't, you'll enjoy this!

This book shifted my notions of neuroscience from the tedious quantitative to the richly spiritual. It's a must-read for people interested in developing mediation practice in the full awareness of current scientific understanding of the brain. More than most books that are aimed at bridging the gap between neuroscience and meditation practice, this book is heartfelt and quite personal. Thanks for your rich insights, Jill.

This book should be mandatory for nurses, doctors, caretakers and family members of someone who is recovering from a stroke.

There's talk about several things taken for granted until tragedy occurs such as detached interpersonal relationships, intellectual bias, how the world should be. After the stroke brought the reality of the real world. It's similar to a physician having to become a patient having a serious illness, before they understand the importance of compassion. This book clarified the functions of the hemispheres and the various areas important for understanding motor and linguistic activities, but it also touched on the importance of the power of energy and emotions. Thank you for sharing your story and may your right brain and heart always be content. Krico

I'M A VIET NAM VETERAN WITH ACUTE/CHRONIC PTSD. IN BEING WOUNDED I ALSO SUFFERED A TBI (TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY) THAT HAS CAUSED ME RESIDUAL EFFECTS THROUGHOUT MY LIFE. YOUR BOOK GAVE ME A DEEPER INSIGHT IN TO COMPLEXITY OF THE BRAIN. AT THE SAME TIME IT GAVE ME SOME RENEWED INSIGHT AS TO HOW I MIGHT OVERCOME, AT LEAST PARTIALLY, HOW TO BETTER WORK AT MAKING THE TWO SIDES OF MY BRAIN WORK TOGETHER, RATHER THAN INDEPENDANTLY.

I read this book to my husband in the 4 months post stroke to give us hope of the recovery possible following stroke. The author writes of her own hemorrhagic stroke as a neuroreaeacher. Amazing story full of hope and funny when appropriate.

This is a wonderful book by a neurophysiologist who suffered a massive stroke, lived, and regained enough function to chronicle her experience in a convincing and lucid way. It allows the reader to understand those parts of the human brain might underlie the spiritual dimension of human thought, but which are commonly held in check in contemporary culture. For anyone wishing to know more about what it might feel like to suffer a stroke, or how the brain can fail, this is a very worthwhile read. Moreover, the author, despite her debilitating experience, offers hope for recovery and insight.

I BOUGHT THIS BOOK AS MY HUSBAND RECENTLY HAD A STROKE IN THE SAME AREA OF BRAIN. WAS SO HOPEFUL IT WOULD GIVE ME INFO OR TIPS ON HOW SHE MADE HER RECOVERY. NONE AT ALL. ALL SHE TALKED ABOUT IS HER HIPPEE LIKE ACID TRIP THAT HER STROKE FELT LIKE. STRANGE AUTHOR ACTUALLY ENJOYED HER STROKE EXPERIENCE. I WAS APALLED.

This book has many excellent insights and features of the brain I was not aware of. If we really can change some of our brain two step to the right we can have a very comfortable Society.

I read this book while I was Occupational Therapy Assistant student. I found the first half of the book to be a really interesting study on the stroke recovery process from the patient's prospective. The second half of the book sort of turns into a more spiritual exploration/self-help journey which I personal found a bit jarring. That said, I would still recommend the book for anyone with any some interest in strokes and the recovery process from students to caregivers of victims.

This was a gift to my future daughter-in-law. I am a male nursing student. As a result of reading this book, I have been deeply influenced to pursue neuroscience, with hopes to work in ICU, as my route to advancement. It is the only book I have ever read twice. My copy was a gift from a fellow student who knew it would have a profound affect on me in "my pursuit to be the best nurse possible." I was most moved by the very first item in Appendix B, in the list Dr. Taylor devised of "Forty Things I Needed the Most [in her recovery from the stroke] which states, "1. I am not stupid. I am wounded. Please respect me." Dr. Taylor is an incredible inspiration and I intend to be a nurse professional who will make a difference to those who suffer brain trauma and require sensitive and understanding caregivers.

My 87 year old mother in law suffered a stroke in December and although we never expected this, even at her advanced age, it surprised us even more that there was no therapy or treatment. It was as if the hospital just wrote her off. I have been learning about strokes and rehabilitation. Dr. Taylor's book really helped me to understand my mother in law's condition from her perspective. She has difficulty communicating but I have always thought that speaking in a soft tone and with a hand holding speaks volumes to her. Even if she may not understand the language, as she used to, she knows we love her

Very interesting book which I had just finished reading before a friend of mine, with whom I had been out of communication for about a year and a half, contacted me and told me he had had a stroke. It helped me understand what he was going through to rehabilitate himself.

A "must read" for anyone who has a family member or close friend who has suffered a stroke or other Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). Jill's story is both amazing and inspiring and demonstrates how a stroke victim can regain much of what was lost with hard work and the dedicated assistance of family and friends. This woman was able to eventually document what she experienced at the onset of and during the actual event. If you ever have the opportunity to hear her lectures on this subject, you won't be disappointed. She's a wonderful inspirational speaker and writer.

We saw Jill Bolte Taylor interviewed on television and we were fascinated. She has survived a very tragic situation and along with her training in neurology, her inate curiosity and her sense of humor she has been able to give us a wonderful insight into those afficted from a stroke. Having had a grandfather who lived with us after having several strokes and watching him anguish with the change in his abilities I have always wondered what was still locked up in his mind and what could I have done to help him adjust. Jill's mother was an amazing partner in her recovery. Both Jill and her mother's perspectives are valuable tools for those of us who may be participants in such a tragedy.

Everyone who knows a victim of brain trauma needs this book. I wish I had read it after my mother had her stroke. I spent 13 unhappy years as her caretaker. There was very little offered,23 years ago to the patient or the caretaker of brain trauma victims,and what was offered was not beneficial.My mother died feeling angry alienated and abandoned by her family even though she had round the clock care in her own home.I ended up resentful,exhausted and with health problems. If I had this book it would have helped me to understand my mothers very different personality and how to care for her post stroke. My husband recently had a brain trauma and now I have the tools to help him.This book made all the difference for me as the caretaker.Now patient and caretaker are both happier.

This is a great book on many levels. It is a biography of a woman that had a hemorragic stroke, was able to save herself, and her recovery. The first half of the book explains what she felt and went through. The second half is more on the biology of the brain and how the left side and right side communicate with each other. She does an excellent job of explaining the physiology in a way that is easy to understand and should be great fro both medical professionals and lay people alike. I had it in soft back and ordered it in hard back as this is for my library.

I had an ischemic stroke in my left brain on September 12, 2019. I am blessed to be able to walk and talk. I have a weak right arm and hand . I am learning to retrain my arm and hand to function. I wanted to learn more from Jill's journey.

This book was recommended to me by a friend, a professor of biology, when my son had a fairly typical, fairly severe MCA occlusion caused by an embolism, resulting in right side paralysis and aphasia. It really helped me understand what he was suffering, and gave me invaluable tips for participating in his recovery. Some people may not accept the slight lapse into new-agey analysis of the right brain, but if anything, my son's event, though a somewhat different manifestation of stroke than the author's, affirmed this. If you are facing this common but devastating medical emergency and want to understand what's happening, beyond what the doctors explain and report, Dr. Taylor's insights will prove very useful. I noticed the book on one of the speech therapist's desks, and we had a useful conversation about it. Doctors may give you a rather superficial description of the stroke, but if you are interested in the patient's actual experience , and the strange workings of the brain and body, you MUST read this book. It will really help you contribute to the recovery of your loved one.

In "My Stroke of Insight: A Brain Scientist's Personal Journey," Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor describes her experiences as a stroke survivor. After suffering a massive hemorrhage on the left side of her brain, Dr. Taylor provides a step-by-step account of the morning of her stroke. She describes the mental and physical deficits she experienced during the stroke, in addition to the mental and physical processes that remained intact. This book provides a fascinating glimpse into the physiological and psychological processes that were affected by this type of stroke, recounted by a neuroanatomist that remained conscious throughout the entire ordeal. Priceless! Considering that my grandfather had a massive stroke that left him completely paralyzed on the left side of his body, this book really resonated with me. I wish I would have read this book two years ago when he first had the stroke (especially the section on the things Dr. Taylor needed the most after her stroke). Nevertheless, I would have preferred for Dr. Taylor to provide a more detailed account of her recovery after the neurosurgery, similar to the way she described the stroke itself, her initial time in the hospital, and the two weeks preceding the surgery. Instead, she seemed to skim over her recovery after the brain surgery and focused more on her "spiritual recovery". Additionally, a cautionary note: Dr. Taylor states several times throughout the book that she had a "complete" recovery after her stroke. I find this claim to be potentially misleading because it is almost impossible to completely recover and return to pre-stroke/brain injury functioning after suffering any type of head injury. Statements like this may create false hope in readers whose lives have been recently affected by stroke/brain injury. Additionally, although Dr. Taylor states that she had a complete recovery, she also remarks that the brain injury changed her for the better (and, thus, she didn't actually return to her pre-stroke functioning). Overall, a great read. Very inspirational!

My Stroke of Insight can completely change the way you look at life! Not only is it extraordinairily informative regarding stroke victims, but it's amazingly insightful in regard to how we all deal with life, love, family and friends. I've never read a better book about caring for the injured or sick and about approaching life knowing that happiness is a choice! I highly recommend this book (and the audiobook is WONDERFUL!) to anyone under any circumstances. A MUST read for families and caretakers of stroke victims. This should be required reading for any medical professional! And don't be intimidated by the first section - brain anatomy - it's not neccessary that you fully understand/retain all those details in order to comprehend the rest of the book. Believe me, you'll get the message by the time you finish it.

Aside from being a true story. It is an EPIC INSPIRATION. The author READ THIS HERSELF. Not such an easy task for a victim of a massive CVA.. Taylor's determination and the amazing resilience of our brains is TRULY facinating. Her stroke becomes a graphic tool for ALL of us. She gives us all insight into how WE can all redesign many of our brains functions. I had a stroke at 49. Cognitive Rehabilitation came close to competing with Taylor's mother and the one on one focus she received. Taylor's stamina obviously in part inherited from her mother and her baseline of knowledtge made for this wonderful story of recovery.

Such beautiful book!!! I’ve discovered Dr Jill through her TED talk and I was intrigued. What an amazing history! What happened to Dr Jill was a gift for the entire humanity because through her experience we can learn more about us. What are the chances that a brain scientist can experiment with her own brain! Thanks for recovering Dr Jill! Thanks to all your effort, we can have your testimony available.

I bought this book after hearing about it on NPR- and it is one of the best books I have ever read! It isn't just for people that have had a stroke or know someone who's had a stroke..it is such an easy read and it's hard to put down. Very insightful!

When my brother had a stroke in the left side of his brain, this book helped me to understand his recovery process and even explain the process to the nursing staff. Very valuable information.

This is a must read for anyone who has a family member that has had a stroke and needs understanding on what has happened to their loved one! It helped my husband to understand how to help me after this happened to me.

I heard the author on a broadcast of NPR's "Fresh Air" with Terri Garr and was so intrigued with the conversation that I looked up the book on Amazon. I got it at a great price. This is one amazing story for anyone who has had the misfortune of being close to someone who has had a stroke, for stroke victims, and medical professionals. It is a very unique perspective from the stroke victim. We are usually told about strokes in very analytical terms... this personlizes the experience. GP's should make this a must read! You will be drawn into and fascinated by this book. The spiritual aspects are most surprising! Please read... highly recommended.

This is a really good book. If you or someone you know have had a stroke this is a really good read. The author recounts her experience with her stroke and her story of recovery is just amazing. Just goes to show that we should never give up and always keep moving forward no matter what gets thrown our way. I had to read this as part of my curriculum for my PTA program and I'm so glad that it was. It gives me really good insight on how a stroke patient may feel and helps me in the future as a PTA when I'll be treating stroke patients.

Outstanding book, with unique insights into how our brains enable us as spirits to deal with this material world where we all appear to be separate. Only a brain scientist could give such an accurate, detailed description of the stroke experience, and her story of how she recovered over several years, getting past many "plateaus" to continue healing, will be inspirational and highly encouraging to anyone who has had a stroke. She also gives us a unique perspective on our real spiritual nature, and how her outlook and behavior has changed as a result of her experience. The idea of choosing which personal traits you will continue with, and which you will discard, is revolutionary and totally surprising, but it shows we all can do it without having a stroke. Would recommend this book for anyone, not just stroke sufferers and their caregivers, and also for every psychologist and psychiatrist. Already lent my printed copy (also have it on Kindle) to my neighbor who is a psychologist. Her husband is a psychiatrist. This is truly an uplifting book in many, many ways! Dan McAneny

I read this book at a time when I was having a lot of trouble with my memory post PTSD. Through reading this book, my hopelessness gave over to hopefulness as I began to believe that I could regain my memory. I began to explore more about neuroplasticity which further increased my hopefulness. Online brain exercises had a further dramatic impact on turning my life around. This book is a good read for anyone, regardless of whether you, or others close to you, have experience thinking difficulties or traumatic brain injury.

Fascinating journey into the workings of the brain - from a neuroscientist's perspective. She does make it very understandable to the layman and an enjoyable read. I have ordered it in audiobook form as well as several more copies of the book to give as gifts. Most especially I would like my daughter, who is in nursing school and stresses out very easily, to read it and realize that she is not at the mercy of her emotions but that she can train and control her thought patterns to a more productive and enjoyable end. I have made a concerted effort to do so myself, and have been reaping the benefits in the form of experiencing more joy, peace, and gratitude in my life. I appreciated how Dr. Taylor explained exactly how she does this to give the reader some guidance, but urges that you find what works for you. All in all a great read and an incredible story - even if you have no desire to alter or improve your own brain function, however, once you've read it you will be inspired to improve your life.

My husband is at risk for a stroke sometime within his life time (already had a very minor one), and so I read this book seeking the detailed information promised by a scientist. The best information was to be patient, look the patient in the eyes, speak quietly and slowly over and over if necessary, stay positive and detail oriented, and develop daily plans. Good information, but sometimes too much repeat information. I also wished that the author had used less contrast description when talking about her first day and week after the stroke. The message about her state of being and her "lost" abilities got lost in the words about what she "should" have been able to do. One of many books.

This book came highly recommended and I have to say I was dubious - reading about someone having a stroke?? I WAS WRONG. I am a teacher - I am passionate about developing my own learning and this book has opened the way to me for researching and playing with new strategies to help my students learn in ways that suit them. This is a powerful story about one woman's determination to get back to where she was but with a greater understanding of empathy, creativity and the need for balance in our lives. In addition - it will save lives - it will develop the medical professions understanding of what is happening inside a stroke victims head - it will develop their empathy

I am a person who has read many, many self help books, over the last 25 years, including many books on meditation and spirituality. From this perspective, I found this book a ticket to the implementation of taking over control of my mind -- and therefore, my moods. I have received a valued gift from the author-- and I am grateful. If you can be aware of the shift of a mood --say from positive to negative--and you can back track to that first whisper of a thought, that started the negative neural loop, then you can refute that whisper and get on a happier road in your mind. She calls this 'tending the garden of your mind'. She brought all the stuff I had read over the years into a conclusive "how- to". The how-to is simple; simple does not mean fast, nor does it mean easy. Last word of advise:you must be AWARE and observant. By aware, I mean you need to notice when you are happy and notice when you became unhappy and be able to observe what event, thought, emotion, energetic vibe got you to that place. Personal example:I notice that my son and I can get into a neural loop of complaining about where we live. When I notice(finally)that we are on that negative neural pathway, I suggest that we talk about what has happened here that is good. In a matter of minutes, we are on a happy track in our minds. It is really just that simple. YOur job is to notice, observe, be aware. Once you can do that, the author gives you tips on how to jump over to a more desired neural pathway in your brain. This book is one of my top 5 books on how to live a more happy life. And I have read lots of books... Blessings....

Jill's experience is amazing. I am so happy and grateful she survived her stroke to share her experience with the world. Humans are a wonderful creation of complexity and fragility. Jill's personal experience, exploration and observations of the workings of the human brain will give you a whole new perspective of who you are and a new awakened appreciation of the complete connectedness of all of life. Its not a long book and though she herself is a brain scientist it is written for all to understand and appreciate. I recommend it to everyone, and everyone who reads it is equally moved to share it and recommend it. Read this book. You'll be really glad you did.

I had seen Jill Bolte Taylor's Ted presentation quite some time ago.... and was extremely moved. Therefore, when I ordered her book, I was bolted to the chair. She is an extraordinary writer, whether it be medical details, or how she felt when her mother came to her bedside and just got into bed with her.......you are wearing her shoes throughout the entire book. It is my belief that anyone who would read this book would be less afraid of death, for she beautifully describes "Bliss" and how our egos create our fears from various brain hemispheres. I feel genuine love for this woman who went through an incredible transformation, with only gratitude for all of it! What a learning for the rest of us. God Bless you Jill Bolte Taylor.

Miracles Happen. This is a book about healing. This book is a book of inspiration! It doesn't matter what you need to heal from. Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor tells you exactly how to do it. How you need to think and feel to get well and to come out ACTUALLY BETTER for the illness. The way this book is written, to me, is fascinating. I liked the fact Dr. Taylor did not leave out the technical stuff on the brain but separated it from the story. This is a book for everyone. It explains how your brain thinks and feels and the zen of it all. Thank God Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor lived to write "My Stroke of Insight" and Thank God for a mom like G.G. Oh...that's right this is a book about the love between a very special mother and her brain scientist daughter. On all accounts...a great read!

This book is written in the first person and takes you through the prelife, the stroke itself, the treatment and the recovery phase. Well written by a brain expert. My stroke was different but much resonated with me. Families and care givers will find this a valuable resource to know what the stroke victim is going through from their point of view. Her stroke was a left brain bleeder stoke at age 37 which is both very young and also probably the most severe and carries the most damage to the individual's brain but the author has completely recovered over a period of eight years. An amazing story.

What an excellent book! Explains what happens when you have a stroke and way more. Very helpful for anyone working with a stroke victim. Written by a person who had a very serious stroke and who is an expert in the subject matter -- she is a Ph.D. brain scientist and a spokesperson for the Harvard Brain Bank. She was also named as one of Time magazine's One Hundred Most Influential People in the World in 2008.

If you've ever known anyone who has had a stroke -- or any brain/neurological impairment -- this is so enlightening. And that Dr. Taylor recovered (after 8 years) to be able to write this book and go on tour and talk about it is simply remarkable. Dr. Taylor offers information that is so needed, not only for the medical profession, but for families of loved ones who have suffered some sort of brain damage. You wonder what is happening in their minds, can they hear you, understand you, where are they? Dr. Taylor offers some true and needed insight.

Dr. Taylor is a neuroscientist who suffered a left hemisphere stroke at age 37. This was a severe hemorrhagic stroke from an AVM that she likely had since birth. She writes about her life and career pre-stroke and then in great detail the harrowing day she had the stroke. She writes about her treatment, surgery, and recovery. The last portion of the book is about the insights she gained into how the left and right hemispheres of her brain function independently and in unison. I would rate the first half of the book 5 stars and the later half 3 stars. Dr. Taylor's recovery is amazing and she provides a lot of information for patients, loved ones, and the medical profession. This book is full of hope and encouragement. She does an amazing job of explaining the unimaginable and detailing how she had to relearn almost everything. Her writing is very positive and upbeat. I am sure that she had days of struggle and despair in her recovery. I wish she would have talked more about that. Ultimately you have to remain positive and motivated in any challenging situation, but the truth is that we don't accomplish that everyday. The second part of the book deals with Dr. Taylor's insights about life and choosing to be happy. She outlines a lot of useful cognitive behavioral and mindfulness techniques. As I am a psychologist, this is well known territory for me, so I skimmed this part. If this is less familiar to you, it contains practical information on dealing with negative thoughts and emotions and is worth the read.

This book was suggested to me by a Pyschotherapist, to help me understand the relationship between the difference in the hemispheres of the brain and our emotional state of mind. The Author, a highly educated Neuroanatomist or "brain scientist", experienced a major stroke and after eight years of constant effort, therapy and loving support, was able to make a full recovery and go back to her profession. It allows the reader the ability to perceive, on a very basic level, the overwhelming results of a massive hemorrhage to the left hemisphere or logic center of the brain, not just from a physical but also a mental, emotional and spiritual impact. It was positive, educational and rewarding to read about one person's journey back to health with a new awareness of what we are capable of and how we can use a tragedy to refocus our perspectives and goals.

This book is a must read. You will be inspired by the author's personal journey as she describes what it was like to experience a stroke but the book is priceless in the wisdom it imparts. I learned so much about my own brain and how and why i think what i do. I found this book not only inspirational but it provides insight into how to have a more rich and rewarding life. I highly recommend it.

Dr. Bolte Taylor's work is not only important as an eyewitness account of the brain's function & dysfunction when injured, but also brings a fascinating look into the issue of hemispheric laterality (right brain/left brain functions). While this became a big area in pop psychology, with most neuroscientists and neuropsychologists less convinced about its merit, this work relates very nicely to fascinating in-depth treatments of laterality, such as Ian McGilchrist's work The Master & His Emissary.

This book is inspirational, good for those who work with patients or loved ones who are recoving from a stroke, and to a degree, makes a beautiful statement about spirituality and enlightenment (although I am not sure that was the author's intent). Jill Bolte is not a professional novelist by any stretch of the imagination, but her work is still great!

I selected this book wanting to read about the author's right brain experiences. For me this part of the book alone would have made it remarkable. But the information on how she healed and the implications for caregivers likewise were eyeopening. I wish I had read this book before the brief period my father was in a coma before he died. It has given me a new respect for the plasticity of the brain and the implications beyond strokes and I immediately began another book on that topic. Finally, at a personal level, the book has made me aware of the ability to shut off those annoying left brain dialogs as needed and move into a more joyful, compassionate place. This is a hopeful, wonderful book.

Dr. Bolte Taylor writes openly and clearly about her own personal journey into, and out of, a serious stroke in a way that has never been done before - from the inside out, as it were. And in so doing, she also is able to lend her expertise as a brain surgeon, giving a truly unique understanding of the process of what a stroke is, what it does to a person's mental functions, and what you can do, even if you are not the primary care-giver, to help them recover and continue to believe in their own ability to do so. Even if you do not know of anyone who's had a stroke, the story in and of itself is compelling, and worth the read, told in an easy style. And it will give you information about your own brain and what you can do to maintain a healthy and long-lasting mental ability.

I picked up this book because I am an avid reader of the popular science genre, and I had heard glowing reviews. The book is fine, the writing is engaging and emotionally moving. However, the science stops after the first few chapters, and what started out as an engaging and intriguing personal case study in the inner workings of the human mind rapidly turned into one woman's journey of self discovery, and stayed that way for 12 more chapters. Great if you want a moving comeback story of how motherly love overcomes all obstacles, or if you are the friend or family of an individual who suffered a stroke, or a recovering stroke victim yourself. If you wanted something along the lines of an Oliver Sacks book about the peculiarities and intricacies of the human mind, stop after chapter 8.

Very inspirational, easy to read and to understand the entire issue of Stroke. This is not a complicated medical book but a wonderful story of insight and change of attitude towards life as we live it. I recommended this book to most of my massage clients, because it is such a life-changing story. Men will like this one, too. Jill's detailed description of her stroke experience is amazing. I know most men like the facts and science behind the story. If you want to uplift your significant other and let him read something different than crime stories, this one would do it. :)

Jill Bolte Taylor's book and words, sharing her experience, will blow you away. It is totally amazing how the brain works and how we can actually control it and our thoughts, and how we can better tune into what our brains and bodies are telling us. It is a very deep book, but she explains everything wonderfully. A must-read for anyone interested in the workings of the brain and/or NDE experiences. Highly recommend. Also got one for my mom and she cannot stop talking about it and is learning so much from it. Very enlightening and encouraging!

The description of the author's stroke was thrilling, like a horror movie. The brain science she presents to explain what was happening, which mostly involved what goes on in each hemisphere of the brain, was confusing, especially at first. The best part of the book was about how people who've just had strokes need to be treated by medical staff, family, and friends. I would have liked much more detail about her rehabilitation -- whole years are covered in a sentence, or ignored completely. As far as I can tell she managed her own recovery, aided by a loving but challenging mother, but without benefit of physical therapy, conventional rehab stays, etc. This brevity has the effect of making it sound easier than I'm sure it was. Throughout the book she talks about how her right brain, the side that wasn't injured, gave her a great sense of peace and oneness with the universe after the left side was silenced by her stroke. She believes deeply in this euphoria, and values this feeling far more than all of her skills, rationality, etc. She's convinced that she can feel and communicate usefully with the neurons in her brain. She used the stroke to change her personality and make it more positive and happier, and spends the last chapter telling all of us how to try to do the same thing without the advantage of having had a stroke like hers. I was expecting something more scientific than "drawing angel cards", and discussions of compassion. I wondered about practical matters like how she supports herself post-stroke when she can no longer be a full-time researcher and can only do part-time work -- what about health insurance? Anybody with a relative or friend who's had a stroke, or who works with stroke patients, should read this book, to understand some of what they may be going through, and what they need. It would also have been interesting if she'd talked about what people who've suffered from other, more common kinds of strokes experience and need.

Amazing story! We read this in English class and I’m so happy the teacher recommended it. The author has such a refreshing way of looking at life and what happened to her. It’s a good example of someone who has taken something that would have discouraged many, and turned it into a positive to make her life better.

I got this book to understand what my dad was going through after he suffered a stroke. It was really helpful.

Great read as an OT student

This book can be a slow start for those who don't wish to read the scientific introductory pages. But, as the author advises, come back and read it later. Just don't stop there. This book is a book about hope for anyone who has had, will have or is caring for someone who has had a stroke. Most importantly, it is about accepting your own unique self as valuable...no matter what state your body is in at any given moment. My daughter has inoperable cancer, so the stories are different and will end differently, but this is a book I return to for light when it gets very dark.

This is one of the best books I have ever read. It's such an amazing account of Dr. Taylor's experience. There's so much helpful information about what to do if someone we know has a stroke and how to help them. My husband is going to read it and I'm sending my daughter a copy. I'm grateful to Dr. Taylor for sharing her experience and her knowledge.

Fascinating book about a brain scientist who had a stroke in her left brain and what she learned about universal connectedness, brain wiring, and personal development. She also had some good advice about how to "turn off the left brain and move to the right" to get out of self-blame and depression.

I couldn't put it down, very interesting read. I have a friend who had a stroke recently, and this is very good knowledge to turn it around.

For a neuroanatomist to have a stroke and then be able to describe what it was like, is the most amazing thing. She was unique in that she had the language and the understanding of how the brain works so she could understand and then describe what had happened. The title is perfect, because this story gives so much insight into what the stroke survivor feels. Not every stroke situation will be the same, of course. But it is enlightening to hear how she felt from "inside" when she could think but not communicate her thoughts, and how the various caregivers treated her. One of the most thought-provoking books I have read.

Really helpful to know that one CAN recover from stroke damage. One must preserve energy and work only on the essentials. The essentials may entail tele as rning how to communicate orally or to read and write again.