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Just like Mr. Verghese, I was also born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Again, just like him I share my rebirth as a naturalized American citizen. As I read this book, I could relate so well with all the nuisances. A fantastic book that I want all to read.
Gregory

I loved this book. What an amazing writer! I come from a medical background which made me appreciate the work of the characters. But aside from this, who can't feel compassion for Genet taking a wrong turn considering her burdens. So much has been woven into this story it is worth every single page. There are no weak or slow areas. Thank you, Mr Venghese, for an amazing journey.

One of the best medical epics
Great story about the struggle of immigrants in the USA

Great story about parents, physicians, and the human condition

My dream was to be a doctor which did not happen so that is one reason why I absolutely loved this book. The history and the writing were magnificent and I do wish Dr. Verghese was my doctor. I have been trying unsuccessfully to find "The Diagnosis of the Acute Abdomen in Rhyme" and I would appreciate some help in purchasing it. Please respond, Shirley L. Kurland sslk1210@gmail.com

I love the book. I love the writer...he is a wonderful storyteller. He brings out things I have not noticed as a native, as a person who grew up in Ethiopia. The story begins in the 1950s Ethiopia, which for me put into context the Addis Ababa that my parents grew up in and brought to life some of the actual events that I only heard about as a child.

[Deleted by the author on Jan 9, 2011 1:58:30 PM PST]

If I could speak directly to the author, I would say this: "Dear Mr. Verghese, I have deeply enjoyed your novel and found in it so many places where my visceral sense of the world matches your character's experiences--and my life is nothing like any of your character's lives on the surface. You have managed to cross the realm of mere circumstance to enliven the root of the universality of our essential humanity which abides in all of our hearts and souls. For this, I am not merely grateful, but affirmed, encouraged, excited, and transformed. The me who was here among the living before I read your novel is not the same me who lives here now."

I am not in medicine, nor am I an immigrant, but this novel moved me on so many levels. I do not have the words to express how beautiful this book is, but I know that I will read everything Mr. Verghese has written.

This is the novel I was telling you about. It is gripping and very moving.

For my fellow doctors and friends, I have just finished a wonderful book about medicine, destiny, love and ethics.
I strongly recommend this book, you will have to be patient at the beginning but go on, it is worth it.