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Reviews
What Doesn't Kill You: A Life with Chronic Illness - Lessons from a Body in Revolt by Tessa Miller
emmamde's review
5.0
If you or someone you know is dealing with a chronic illness/ pain you should read this book. The author clearly explains what it’s like to live with one in a way anyone could understand.
kqk's review against another edition
It was emotionally overwhelming for me and I just could not continue with it. It was the February therapist book club selection and I was sad to miss the discussion.
kyullua's review
inspiring
reflective
slow-paced
3.25
I wished it had focused more on the memoir part. I loved those.
What made me lower the score was the focus on the american healthcare system, which while I understand the needs to some of the readers I expected to hear more about coping and living with IBD and someone with IBD myself
I related to a lot of what the author said but felt like the developing “connection” (if you can call it that) was cut halfway through it with a lot of info regarding the medical system there
What made me lower the score was the focus on the american healthcare system, which while I understand the needs to some of the readers I expected to hear more about coping and living with IBD and someone with IBD myself
I related to a lot of what the author said but felt like the developing “connection” (if you can call it that) was cut halfway through it with a lot of info regarding the medical system there
Content Warnings
Graphic: Chronic illness
Minor: Death of parent and Alcoholism
theshaggyshepherd's review
5.0
What doesn't kill you // by Tessa Miller
I feel like I say this so often about memoirs... but man, what a book! Once again, I'm so glad I picked this up. I truly feel like this read has improved my life. I enjoy learning about new things but this one just hit differently. Maybe I'm just getting better at choosing my reads. Or maybe this one just feels really personal. Whatever it is, I'm ready to tackle my own problems with renewed vigor and am looking to find my team of doctors to get this ish figured out... Thank you for that motivation, Tessa Miller!
But seriously though, Tessa Miller gave us an in-depth look into her life with Crohn's. I know some people with this disease and knew that it was bad but honestly had no clue what day-to-day life with it can look like. Miller is a science and health journalist and you can really tell that writing is her passion by the skill she shows when mixing her own story with facts about the disease, health care and insurance in the US, laws, and more. She didn't hesitate to explain the nitty-gritty details about Crohn's, the toll that chronic illness can have on mental health, relationships, self-image, careers, and all other parts of your life. But somehow, this book wasn't as depressing as you would expect it to be. Somehow, it actually felt more like a cheerleader, a motivator, a supporter. I really do feel a renewed energy to figure out what is up with my body and I thank her for that. I highly recommend this book to anybody because this can be informational to able-bodied people without chronic diseases, it can be useful for health care workers because she explains the difference a good doctor can make, it can be motivating for people with chronic illnesses, and more.
Thank you for the free copy in exchange for an honest review.
I feel like I say this so often about memoirs... but man, what a book! Once again, I'm so glad I picked this up. I truly feel like this read has improved my life. I enjoy learning about new things but this one just hit differently. Maybe I'm just getting better at choosing my reads. Or maybe this one just feels really personal. Whatever it is, I'm ready to tackle my own problems with renewed vigor and am looking to find my team of doctors to get this ish figured out... Thank you for that motivation, Tessa Miller!
But seriously though, Tessa Miller gave us an in-depth look into her life with Crohn's. I know some people with this disease and knew that it was bad but honestly had no clue what day-to-day life with it can look like. Miller is a science and health journalist and you can really tell that writing is her passion by the skill she shows when mixing her own story with facts about the disease, health care and insurance in the US, laws, and more. She didn't hesitate to explain the nitty-gritty details about Crohn's, the toll that chronic illness can have on mental health, relationships, self-image, careers, and all other parts of your life. But somehow, this book wasn't as depressing as you would expect it to be. Somehow, it actually felt more like a cheerleader, a motivator, a supporter. I really do feel a renewed energy to figure out what is up with my body and I thank her for that. I highly recommend this book to anybody because this can be informational to able-bodied people without chronic diseases, it can be useful for health care workers because she explains the difference a good doctor can make, it can be motivating for people with chronic illnesses, and more.
Thank you for the free copy in exchange for an honest review.
ginabyeg's review
5.0
A very engaging read about the realities of living with a chronic condition. Admittedly, at some parts this was hard to digest (pun intended), as the author has Crohn's disease, and I have IBS that I often fear will turn into Crohn's or UC. Simultaneously, the health experiences she describes that have overlapped with mine are refreshingly affirming. Others with chronic illness will likely feel the same. She covers all facets of chronic illness through her own personal journey--navigating the medical system, relationships, and work; dealing with trauma, anxiety, and depression; and coming to terms with a new reality. An honest and important read for those with chronic illness and their caregivers.
mowgili's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
reflective
fast-paced
4.75
This book is a heart wrenching account of the authors experience navigating the world with chronic illness. It also offers deep insight into the social justice and political aspects of chronic illness and disability in America.
The advice that it offers fellow chronically ill people is rooted in rigorous research and rings with a tone of genuine care and kindness. Highly recommend to anyone who is chronically ill or disabled or those who are close to disabled and chronically ill folks.
paperlessprinter's review against another edition
informative
reflective
4.0
I also have Crohn's but it's not as bad as my mental illness. It was interesting to read it from both sides.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Medical trauma