When Breath Becomes Air

A beautifully written biography of a neurosurgeon diagnosed with lung cancer.

To look out for:

Islamic values: The author frequently questions his motives in life, and eventually comes to conclusions not wholly wrong but not quite aligned with Islamic teachings

Romance: The author mentions that he had a girlfriend. He and his wife doubt their relationship once. At the end, his wife writes about her affection for her husband.

Profanity: Infrequent use of swear words, including “f–k” and “s–t”

Violence: Graphic descriptions of medical procedures and classes, including the dissection of bodies for medical reasons.