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  • Published: 2 June 2020
  • ISBN: 9780241338704
  • Imprint: Penguin Life
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 272
  • RRP: $26.00

Life Lessons from a Brain Surgeon

The New Science and Stories of the Brain




This is a deeply practical and readable book, which will take you on an expedition through the anatomy of the most fascinating - and mysterious - of organs.

World-leading neuroscientist and neurosurgeon Dr Rahul Jandial draws on his years of work with patients suffering from the most extreme cases of brain damage, disorders and illnesses to reveal what they can tell us about the science of the mind.

From a languages teacher who has to choose whether to lose her ability to speak Spanish or English after brain surgery, to a former TV exec, now homeless, who discovers that his life-altering despondency is the result of a tumour, to a fainting teen who learns that deep breathing can mean the difference between life or death, these stories uncover the secret workings of the brain.

Blending cutting-edge research and beautiful storytelling, Life Lessons from a Brain Surgeon is a vital resource on the best ways to boost your memory, control stress and emotions, minimize pain, unleash your creativity, raise smart kids and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's. This is a deeply practical and readable book, which will take you on an expedition through the anatomy of the most fascinating - and mysterious - of organs.

  • Published: 2 June 2020
  • ISBN: 9780241338704
  • Imprint: Penguin Life
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 272
  • RRP: $26.00

About the author

Rahul Jandial

Dr Rahul Jandial, MD, PhD, is a dual-trained neurosurgeon and neurobiologist. He is known for undertaking complex cancer operations and overseeing groundbreaking science at the Jandial Lab in Los Angeles. Through his non-profit International Neurosurgical Children's Association (INCA) he travels around the world performing and teaching brain surgery in under-served hospitals in Central and South America, south-east Asia and eastern Europe. Many first came to know him from his columns in Vice and his appearances on American news shows and international channels, including Discovery and National Geographic, among others. His first book, Life Lessons from a Brain Surgeon, became a Sunday Times bestseller.

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Praise for Life Lessons from a Brain Surgeon

A compelling insight into that special organ that surgeons cannot replace

Professor Stephen Westaby, author of 'Fragile Lives'

A powerful and trustworthy insight into the brain. You will love his playful story telling and guidance

Dr Rupy Aujla - author 'The Doctor's Kitchen' and 'Eat to Beat Illness'

Finally! A book about the brain that has gripping stories, easy to understand science, and useful tips that people can use in their daily lives. If you only read one book about the human brain, this should be the one. This book makes me even more proud of our unique craft - brain surgery and neuroscience

Alfredo Quiñones-Hinojosa,Author of 'Dr Q: My Journey from Migrant Farm Worker to Brain Surgeon'

Who knew a book about the human brain could be so enlightening and enjoyable at the same time? Science has come a long way and Dr. Rahul Jandial is on the leading edge of some of the most promising and innovative breakthroughs in treating the brain. In Life Lessons from a Brain Surgeon Jandial strikes an elegant balance between highlighting scientific discoveries, "busting" popular myths and providing realistic tips that can be applied to everyday life. The stories he shares about his experiences and the brain's ability to adapt and heal are incredibly inspiring

Sandy Nunez, ESPN

Want to be happier, feel younger AND stave off dementia? Then try a leading neurosurgeon's brilliantly simple workouts for your little grey cells with this ingenious "BOOTCAMP FOR YOUR BRAIN"

Daily Mail

Forget supplements and pricey potions - these easy, doctor-approved exercises and lifestyle upgrades can help boost your brain at any age

New York Post

World-leading neuroscientist Dr Rahul Jandial takes readers on a journey through the body's most mysterious organ. As well as revealing the secrets of the working brain, he offers tips on boosting memory, minimising pain and cutting Alzheimer's risk

Mail on Sunday

Rahul Jandial's truth and honesty is fantastic and his knowledge is amazing

Tim Lovejoy, Channel 4 'Sunday Brunch' TV presenter and podcast host