A Map of the Child: A Pediatrician's Tour of the Body

by Darshak Sanghavi

"A delightful, quirky, awe-inspiring journey . . . Sanghavi is a vivid and effortless teller of human tales and quite evidently a special doctor, too." ―Atul Gawande, author of Complications

In this compelling book, Dr. Darshak Sanghavi takes the reader on a dramatic tour of a child's eight vital organs, beginning with the lungs and proceeding through the heart, blood, bones, brain, skin, gonads, and gut.

Along the way, we meet children and families in extraordinary circumstances―a premature baby named Adam Flax who was born with undeveloped lungs, a teenage boy with a positive pregnancy test, and a young girl who keeps losing weight despite her voracious appetite. In a deeply personal narrative, Sanghavi provides a richly detailed―and humanized―portrait of how the pediatric body functions in both sickness and health.

Genres: Medicine, Nonfiction, Medical, Health, Health Care

320 pages, Paperback

First published January 8, 2003

Reviews

[Liralen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really well done look at the body and some of the ways it works (or doesn't), as seen in children. The cases themselves are interesting -- some involving common ailments; others involving much stranger problems -- but what's especially useful is that he uses example after example to couch things in terms that a layperson will understand. He also pulls extensively from outsider sources to provide a broader picture or just more interesting knowledge, and he's able to tackle difficult topics with perspective and balance.

A bit of follow-up to the brief mention of the boy raised as a girl after a botched circumcision (pages 218-219): he killed himself in 2004 following years of depression. There were other factors than his childhood, but I remember watching a film in a Women's Studies class in which he -- shown in silhouette only -- talked about how miserable it had made him to believe for so long that something was wrong with him. Reminds me of how glad I am that progress, however slow at times, is being made.

[Francoise Krull · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stimulating from the first to last page! This book is an entertaining read, but it's also a learning experience, which might well move you to tears of both sadness and joy.
Expect to come away with a better understanding of anatomy, and the resilience of children (& their families) in general. But, don't be too surprised if you develop a newfound respect along the way for those in the medical professions. Especially those who deal with the smallest and most vulnerable of us: the little humans whose needs are immeasurable. A great read for anyone, who enjoys exercising their compassion, but an absolute must-read for any family supporting a child through long-term health issues.

[Nancy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although a great description of childhood anatomy and diseases, the treatments of those diseases are antiquated. It is impressive how medical science has advanced since this book was written in 2003.

[Maggie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was SO interesting and really got me interested in pediatric cardiology. I read it as part of my Cell Biology class and eventually went to a discussion group about it which was great. Dr. Sanghavi wove personal stories from his years of experience and practice with scientific and medical facts, creating an interesting and informative read. I would highly, highly recommend this book to anyone interested in the medical field, especially with an interest in peds/cardiology, but also suggest it for anyone who wants an interesting and easy to read nonfiction. Very good!

[Cassandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this book. The author, who is a pediatrician, shares interesting stories from his practice as he discusses treating various parts of the body. He addresses different cultures and relationships, as well. Dr. Sanghavi concludes with a brief discussion of the challenge to treat the whole person, rather than focusing on treating segments of the body. We care for people, not parts.

[Laurie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book. It walks through the systems of the body, but in a human way with great stories. I used to work with the author at UMass Memorial Children's Medical Center in Worcester, MA. What a wonderful physician!

[Sindhumukku · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a must for all parents, even if you don't have a medical background. I quickly gained appreciation for the immense strength children have in the toughest of circumstances, as well awe and thanks to the physicians and nurses who take care of them.

[Sasha Rose Clifton Oxnard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautifully written exploration of the human body and illnesses of childhood portrayed vividly through the lives and stories of real patients.

[Janet Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed the stories in this book...fun way to go through the body.

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this, but I think I am biased because I just think the human body is an amazing miracle and I love learning about it! A very good author, the book was literally a page-turner for me.

[AndreaD'A · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very awesome!