Man to Man Surviving Prostate Cancer [Paperback]

Michael Korda (Author)

Product Details

• Paperback
• Publisher: Vintage Books (1996)
• ASIN: B002JLDXFM
• Average Customer Review: 3.1 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (12 customer reviews)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

11 of 11 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Out of date and self-centered, January 27, 2004

By 

T. J. Baehr (Portland, ME USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Man to Man: Surviving Prostate Cancer (Paperback)

I don't think I would have wanted to read this book before my surgery. Even making allowances for Michael Korda's self-absorption and wealth, the plain facts of his case are scary. On the other hand, it was illuminating to see Patrick Walsh in other than uncritically worshipful light.

Readers should understand at least a couple of things: (1) This book is at least as much about Michael Korda as it is about prostate cancer. He is candid in his description of his own shortcomings, but there is still a strong look-at-me undercurrent. (2) The technology and practices have changed dramatically since his diagnosis ten years ago. My nerve-sparing surgery was triggered by a PSA of just 4.6 and a thorough biopsy. The incision was only 4 or 5 inches, with dissolvable stitches. Anesthesia was general, with minimal blood loss. I was home two days after the surgery. Recovery (I'm less than a week post-op) has been uncomfortable but quite doable, with a terrific wife but without private nurses or special privileges.

There are better, more thoughtful books out there, though this one was fun to read after my surgery. There are also many helpful Web sites.

The advantage men have today is that there are many alternatives in treatment. This can also pose a great burden; it can be hard to make the final decision amid all the conflicting advice. The books and Web sites help. Just don't use Korda's book as your only guide.

10 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

1.0 out of 5 stars Not even close, October 6, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Man to Man: Surviving Prostate Cancer (Paperback)

I bought this book for my father shortly after his diagnosis. What a mistake! It frightened us all unneccesarily. What he went through was nothing like what Mr.Korda experienced. I realize that every man will have a unique and different experience. That said, I have to say my father is doing quite well at two weeks post surgery. He has been relatively pain free for 10 days and recouperating nicely. This book would have been funny to read AFTER surgery, but by no means should it be read in those scary, dark days after you have been diagnosed. It will cause alot of anxiety and stress. From all I can gather, many men do really well after surgery. Don't let your love one read this book. It is one man's extreme experience.

13 of 14 people found the following review helpful:

1.0 out of 5 stars Tells more about Korda than about prostate cancer, September 3, 2002

By A Customer

This review is from: Man to Man: Surviving Prostate Cancer (Paperback)

Unless you are especially interested in Michael Korda, I strongly agree with those other reviewers in recommending that you DO NOT read this book before you decide on treatment or before you have surgery. The author of this book is a very sad case and far worse off than most opting for surgery. This book is worth reading AFTER surgery and you have begun to recoup a little. You'll at least feel good that you're not as bad off as this self-centered schmuck.
For good personal accounts of surviving prostate cancer read Bert Gottlieb's and William Martin's books. Both of these books are deeply reflective and filled with hope and useful information. Also Robert Young's Phoenix5 web site has very useful personal accounts.