REVIEW: The Diving-Bell and the Butterfly (Jean-Dominique Bauby)

Book: The Diving Bell and the Butterfly

Author: Jean-Dominique Bauby

My rating: 4/5.

Premise: After suffering a massive stroke, Jean-Dominique Bauby, editor-in-chief of French ‘Elle’ and the father of two young children, suffered a massive stroke and found himself paralysed and speechless. Using his only functioning muscle – his left eyelid – he began dictating this remarkable story, painstakingly spelling it out letter by letter.

This is such a beautiful yet sad book. I have nothing but admiration for this man. I am astounded by he managed to write so beautifully when he could only dictate one letter at a time. He describes his body as a diving bell weighing him down, but his mind is a butterfly (hence the title). Through this book, he gives us a rare insight into his life trapped in his body. He talks about his frustrations, what he misses, what he enjoys, his daily observations. And he doesn't lose his humour, penning the witty comebacks he couldn't voice. But there is a sadness with his situation. You finish this book feeling more grateful for the simple things you have or can do. A humbling read.