By Siddhartha Mukherjee
Scribner | 592pgs
Release Date: November 16, 2010

Summary:
Cancer physician and acclaimed science writer Siddhartha Mukherjee delineates the history of cancer in his new book The Emperor of All Maladies: A Biography of Cancer. To tell the detailed story of this insidious disease, the oncologist cites research and treatment methods from physicians through the ages, beginning with an ancient papyrus written by Egyptian physician Imhotep around 1600 B.C., which contains the oldest known written cancer diagnosis. Mukherjee also touches on the birth of chemotherapy, the groundbreaking advances made by Dr. Sidney Farber in treating childhood leukemia, and his partnership with philanthropist Mary Lasker to increase awareness and advance cancer research. Nearly 600,000 Americans will be killed by cancer this year. Worldwide, almost seven million cancer victims will die. The author illuminates this terrifying topic to educate readers and de-mystify the illness. He writes with the deep knowledge and compassion of one who has spent years working directly with people stricken with this dreaded disease. Read more…