- Published: 28 September 2021
- ISBN: 9780241461822
- Imprint: Penguin Life
- Format: Hardback
- Pages: 224
- RRP: $49.99
Life on a Knife's Edge
A Brain Surgeon's Reflections on Life, Loss and Survival

















- Published: 28 September 2021
- ISBN: 9780241461822
- Imprint: Penguin Life
- Format: Hardback
- Pages: 224
- RRP: $49.99
A beautifully written and fearless depiction of both brain surgery and the mind of a surgeon. Riveting.
Jim Down, author of Life Support
A reminder that what makes us stellar physicians and surgeons are not our skills with our hands and/our knowledge but rather our empathy and ability to connect with our patients.
Alfredo Quiñones-Hinojosa
Is this a memoir or a science book? An exposé of the shortcoming of our healthcare system or a paean to the wonders of modern medicine? The answer is YES, to all those things and more. Jandial takes us deep into the day-to-day life of his profession as a brain surgeon while simultaneously taking us even deeper into the inner-workings of our own biology. It's an unconventional approach, and a bit disarming at first blush, but pays off in spades. I loved this book.
James Nestor, New York Times bestselling author of Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art
Most of us say 'it's not brain surgery' when we talk about our work. But Rahul Jandial's work - and life - is just that. And he loves both enough to fight for every moment of every life. A searingly honest, fascinating account of lives and minds entwined.
Stevie Spring CBE, Chairman of the British Council and the charity Mind
A powerful testimony to the skill of a world-class surgeon, and a soul-searching exploration of the vulnerability that makes him human.
Leah Hazard, author of the Sunday Times bestseller Hard Pushed
Incredible storytelling
Dr Rangan Chatterjee
Filled with powerful stories of human trauma and resilience - including his own
Telegraph
'It's a brilliant book... There are lessons in every paragraph....Get it now.' Chris Evans
Chris Evans