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Left Neglected summary
Brief summary
Left Neglected by Lisa Genova is a captivating novel that tells the story of Sarah, a career-driven mother who suffers a traumatic brain injury. This thought-provoking book explores the resilience of the human spirit and the power of self-discovery.
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Left Neglected
Summary of key ideas
Recovering from Left Neglect
In Left Neglected, Lisa Genova introduces us to Sarah Nickerson, a high-powered working mother of three who is always on the go. Her life is a whirlwind of work, family, and social obligations. Sarah's life takes a drastic turn when she gets into a car accident due to her distracted driving and sustains a traumatic brain injury called Left Neglect. This condition causes her to be completely unaware of anything on the left side of her body and in her visual field.
After the accident, Sarah's life is turned upside down. She can no longer keep up with her fast-paced job, her family, or even her own body. The once-independent and efficient Sarah is now dependent on others for her basic needs, and she struggles to come to terms with her new reality.
Rediscovering Life's Priorities
As Sarah undergoes rehabilitation, she meets other individuals with Left Neglect and learns from their experiences. She begins to understand the severity of her condition and the long road to recovery that lies ahead. In the process, she also starts to reevaluate her life and the choices she's made. She realizes that her relentless pursuit of success and perfection has come at the cost of her relationships and well-being.
With the help of her supportive family and dedicated therapists, Sarah begins to adapt to her new life. She learns to use compensatory strategies to overcome her visual and spatial deficits, and she starts to appreciate the small victories along the way. Her journey of recovery is not just physical but also emotional and psychological, as she confronts her fears and insecurities.
Embracing the Present Moment
Throughout Left Neglected, Sarah's journey is a lesson in mindfulness and living in the present. She realizes that her previous life was lived on autopilot, always focused on the next task or goal. Now, she is forced to slow down and pay attention to the present moment. She learns to find joy in simple things, such as a warm cup of tea or a conversation with her children.
As Sarah progresses in her recovery, she also returns to work part-time and navigates the challenges of balancing her career and family with her new limitations. She starts to advocate for herself and others with similar conditions, raising awareness about Left Neglect and the importance of brain safety. Her journey becomes an inspiration to others facing similar adversities.
A Journey of Personal Growth
By the end of the book, Sarah has come a long way from the woman she was before the accident. She has learned to accept her limitations and embrace her imperfections. She has also redefined her priorities, placing a greater emphasis on her relationships and personal well-being. Her journey is one of personal growth and resilience, demonstrating the human capacity to adapt and thrive in the face of adversity.
In conclusion, Left Neglected is a poignant exploration of the fragility of life and the resilience of the human spirit. It's a reminder to slow down, appreciate the present, and cherish the things that truly matter. Sarah's story is a powerful testament to the strength we can find within ourselves, even in the most challenging circumstances.
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What is Left Neglected about?
Left Neglected is a novel by Lisa Genova that tells the story of Sarah Nickerson, a career-driven woman who suffers a traumatic brain injury in a car accident. The injury leaves her with a condition called "left neglect," where she is completely unaware of the left side of her body. The book explores Sarah's journey of adaptation and self-discovery as she learns to live with her new reality and re-evaluates what is truly important in life.
Left Neglected Review
Left Neglected (2011) delves into the life of a high-powered woman coping with a traumatic brain injury that forces her to reevaluate her priorities. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- Explores the complexities of brain injury and its impact on identity, offering a unique perspective on resilience and personal growth.
- Provides a realistic portrayal of the challenges and adjustments faced by individuals dealing with life-altering conditions.
- Keeps readers engaged with its emotional depth and thought-provoking narrative, ensuring a captivating and enlightening reading experience.
Who should read Left Neglected?
Readers who enjoy thought-provoking novels that explore the human mind and resilience
Those interested in learning about the challenges and triumphs of individuals living with neurological conditions
People who appreciate well-researched and emotionally impactful storytelling
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Book summaries like Left Neglected
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Left Neglected FAQs
What is the main message of Left Neglected?
The main message of Left Neglected is the journey of self-discovery and embracing life's unexpected challenges.
How long does it take to read Left Neglected?
Reading Left Neglected takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in 15 minutes.
Is Left Neglected a good book? Is it worth reading?
Left Neglected is worth reading for its inspiring narrative and profound exploration of resilience.
Who is the author of Left Neglected?
The author of Left Neglected is Lisa Genova.
What to read after Left Neglected?
If you're wondering what to read next after Left Neglected, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer
- Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser
- Why We Get Fat by Gary Taubes
- The Omnivore's Dilemma by Michael Pollan
- Savor by Thich Nhat Hanh and Lilian Cheung
- Eat to Live by Joel Fuhrman
- Nutrition and Physical Degeneration by Weston A. Price
- Salt Sugar Fat by Michael Moss
- Mindless Eating by Brian Wansink
- The Twenty-four Hour Mind by Rosalind D. Cartwright