Cutting For Stone

My latest read was recommended to me by my Grandma Neil, who has never failed to recommend a great book.

Title: Cutting For Stone

Author: Abraham Verghese.

Length: 658 pages

Genre: Novel

How long will it take to read: I would plan on 2 to 3 weeks for this one.

Type of read: This is a moving read but one that takes time to process. Definitely not brain candy.

Since I have finished this book, I have found myself thinking about the events that unfold in this powerful book. Which also happened as I was reading the book. I would think about the characters: Marion, Shiva, Genet, Hema, Ghosh, Thomas Stone; and how the things they see and experience effect them. I must point out that as I read, I become engrossed and imagine that the characters are indeed real people. Their lives extend beyond the pages, so I will talk about them as if they are real people.

The book largely takes place in Addis Ababa in Ethiopia, however, it does take you to places in India and the United States as well. Having never been to Ethiopia, the descriptions of Addis Ababa were definitely not the Ethiopia I had imagined. Lots of vegetation and Italian influences as it was occupied by Italy for a time. Missing Hospital is the center of the story that is told by Marion Stone, a twin born of a nun with a father as a surgeon. Marion tells the life of his mother who died in child birth, the relationship he has with his twin, the love of adoptive parents, and finding himself.

The most beautiful thing about this story is not the stories of the medical miracles that are performed or the crazy circumstances of the characters' lives, but about how Marion comes to understand who he is and how his choices define him.

This story will make you cry, make you angry, make you believe in love, and make you see the beauty that comes from forgiveness and sacrifice.

Favorite Character: Aside from Marion who you can't help love, Ghosh is my favorite character. He encompasses all the characteristics of a true father, husband, friend, and man.

Rating: 5 stars...a must read.

Published by Vintage Books, New York 2009