BOOK REVIEW / Paperbacks: How We Die by Sherwin B Nuland, Chatto and Windus pounds 8.99

Robin Blake
Saturday 11 June 1994 18:02 EDT
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

'I have not often,' says Dr Nuland, 'seen much dignity in the process by which we die.' Seeking (cruelly?) to break down the comforting stereotype of a dignified and spiritual demise, Nuland has effectively written a guide book to death, walking all the pop ular routes: stroke, heart failure, cancer, HIV, suicide, fatal wounding, senility. He takes no prisoners. Near-death experience? Simply biochemistry. Denial? Inescapable for most. Modern medicine? Too obsessed with high-tech solutions. Doctors? Badly behaved when their patients die. An absolutely fascinating book.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in