Body Factory: From the First Prosthetics to the Augmented Human

The Body Factory is a graphic novel that follows a young man who wakes up in the hospital after a motorcycle accident and discovers that one of his arms has been amputated. He begins an imaginary conversation with Ambroise Paré, the French barber-surgeon who revolutionized amputation, and they explore the history of surgical amputation, including famous amputees, the invention of the tourniquet, phantom limb syndrome, types of prostheses, and transhumanist technologies. The book is illustrated playfully and is seriously funny, offering fascinating details about the world of amputation and medicine.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 168 pages
Publication date: 03 May 2021
Publisher: Pennsylvania State University Press

A young man's life is turned upside down after a devastating motorcycle accident leaves him with a profound loss. As he recovers in the hospital, he is startled to find a portrait on the wall that seems to come to life. The subject of the painting, a French barber-surgeon named Ambroise Paré, introduces himself and begins to engage him in an imaginary conversation.

Through their conversation, Ambroise takes the man on a journey through the history of surgical amputation, from the Stone Age to the Space Age. He shares fascinating details about famous amputees, the invention of the tourniquet, phantom limb syndrome, the different types of prostheses available, and even explores the realm of transhumanist technologies.

The Body Factory is a graphic novel that seamlessly blends humor and education. It presents the world of amputation in a playful and accessible way, making it accessible to anyone with an interest in medicine and the human body. The illustrations are beautifully done, adding to the overall enjoyment of the story.

What makes The Body Factory particularly compelling is its ability to explore the emotional and psychological impact of amputation. The man's journey is filled with pain, grief, and hope as he grapples with his new reality. He must learn to adapt to life with one arm and confront the challenges that come with it.

At the same time, the novel also raises important questions about the nature of humanity and the potential for technological advancements to improve our lives. Ambroise's conversations with the man touch on themes of identity, resilience, and the pursuit of perfection.

In conclusion, The Body Factory is a must-read for anyone interested in the history, technology, and emotional complexities of amputation. It is a beautifully illustrated and thought-provoking novel that will leave readers with a greater understanding of the human body and the remarkable ways in which we can repair and enhance it.

Weight: 430g
Dimension: 172 x 254 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780271087061