Flesh and Blood: A History of My Family in Seven Sicknesses

Flesh and Blood is a memoir by Stephen McGann that explores the history of his family through seven illnesses, combining genealogy, social dimensions of medicine, and drama to understand how these maladies have shaped his identity.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 336 pages
\n Publication date: 25 January 2018
\n Publisher: Simon & Schuster Ltd
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Flesh and Blood is a captivating memoir that delves into the intricate tapestry of the McGann family's history, woven from a rich blend of old documents, hand-me-down stories, and personal anecdotes. Written with intelligence and eloquence, this book serves as a profound homage to the author's family and Irish ancestry, as well as to modern medicine and the welfare state. Packed with lively anecdotes and insights into social history, Flesh and Blood unfolds as a humble yet majestic human story.

The drama and reality intertwine in unexpected ways throughout this powerful and revealing memoir, as the author eloquently explores the themes of memory, its shaping influence, and the choices we make regarding what we choose to pass on. Irish Times praises the book for its metaphors, describing it as a profound exploration of memory and its profound impact on our lives. With a blend of readable science and a passionate sensibility, Flesh and Blood emerges as an attempt to bridge the longstanding rift between science and art.

The author's family has a remarkable tale to tell, having weathered the devastating famine that ravaged Ireland in the 1850s. Their ancestors, seeking a better life, settled in poverty-stricken Victorian Liverpool, where they faced numerous challenges in their quest for survival and prosperity. Some of them enlisted as soldiers, serving on the Western Front during World War I. Among them was one remarkable individual who would become the last man to step off the SS Titanic as it sank beneath the icy waves. He would also testify at the inquest, providing invaluable firsthand accounts of the tragic event.

Flesh and Blood is the story of the McGann family, as told through seven sicknesses—diseases, wounds, or ailments that have afflicted Stephens relatives over the last century and a half. These experiences have played a pivotal role in shaping the author's identity and perspective. Through the lens of these illnesses, the book explores the profound connection between health and our collective will, as well as how it informs our personal narratives. Health becomes the motivational force that drives us to overcome adversity, pursue our dreams, and strive for a better future.

The author's storytelling is masterful, drawing the reader into the lives of his relatives and immersing them in the historical context of their experiences. The book is filled with vivid descriptions and poignant moments, evoking a sense of empathy and understanding for the challenges faced by the characters. The author's own journey, as he explores the roots of his family's history and uncovers the secrets of his own health, adds a personal touch to the narrative.

In conclusion, Flesh and Blood is a remarkable memoir that offers a profound exploration of memory, health, and the human experience. Through the lens of the McGann family's history, the author weaves a tapestry of resilience, adversity, and triumph, leaving the reader with a deeper appreciation for the complexities of life and the power of storytelling. This book is a must-read for anyone who seeks to understand the intricacies of human nature and the enduring legacy of family.

\n Weight: 250g\n
Dimension: 198 x 131 x 22 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781471160813\n \n