Cutting for Stone (Signed and Inscribed First Edition)

Abraham Verghese

Published by Knopf, New York, 2009

Stated First Edition. The book shows signs of being gently read and has a small stain to the fore edge of the text block, else fine. The dust jacket has just a hint of bumping to the base of the spine, else fine and is protected in a mylar cover. Signed and Inscribed by the author directly on the title page. Additional photos available on request. Abraham Verghese's novel "Cutting for Stone" is a sweeping and emotionally charged narrative that unfolds against the backdrop of Ethiopia's turbulent political landscape. Through a tapestry of vivid characters, intricate medical drama, and a profound exploration of familial bonds, Verghese crafts a story that resonates with both the heart and intellect. The narrative revolves around the lives of Marion and Shiva Stone, twin brothers born conjoined at the head in a mission hospital in Addis Ababa. The novel opens with the circumstances leading to their birth and the subsequent events that shape their destinies. As the boys navigate the challenges of growing up in a foreign land, they are confronted with the complexities of identity, love, and the inextricable ties that bind them. The protagonist, Marion Stone, serves as the novel's narrator, guiding readers through the intricacies of his upbringing and the labyrinth of his relationships. Verghese, himself a physician, brings a meticulous and authentic portrayal of the medical profession to the forefront, as Marion and Shiva both follow in the footsteps of their adoptive father, Dr. Thomas Stone, a brilliant and enigmatic surgeon. Against the backdrop of political upheaval in Ethiopia, the characters grapple with the impact of historical forces on their lives. Verghese skillfully weaves the personal with the political, creating a rich tapestry that explores the interplay between individual choices and the larger forces that shape nations. One of the novel's central themes is the redemptive power of love and forgiveness. As Marion and Shiva navigate the complexities of their relationships with each other, with their adoptive parents, and with the people they encounter in their journey, readers are taken on a profound exploration of human connection. Verghese's prose is both lyrical and precise, painting a portrait of a family whose bonds are tested but ultimately endure. The medical aspects of "Cutting for Stone" add a layer of authenticity and depth to the narrative. Verghese's background as a physician infuses the novel with a keen understanding of the human body and the ethical dilemmas that healthcare professionals face. The surgical scenes are rendered with precision and grace, offering readers a window into the world of medicine and the intricate dance between life and death. The novel is also a meditation on the immigrant experience, as Marion, Shiva, and other characters grapple with questions of belonging and identity. Verghese explores the ways in which individuals carry their cultural heritage with them, even as they navigate the challenges of adapting to new surroundings. "Cutting for Stone" is a masterful work that transcends genres, seamlessly blending medical drama, historical fiction, and family saga. Verghese's storytelling is immersive, and his characters linger in the reader's mind long after the final page. Through its exploration of love, loss, and the complexities of the human condition, "Cutting for Stone" stands as a testament to the enduring power of narrative to illuminate the shared threads of our humanity. Seller Inventory # 112

Bibliographic Details

Title: Cutting for Stone (Signed and Inscribed ...
Publisher: Knopf, New York
Publication Date: 2009
Binding: Hardcover
Dust Jacket Condition: Dust Jacket Included
Signed: Signed by Author(s)
Edition: 1st Edition