The Hypochondriac's Guide to Life. and Death.

by Gene Weingarten

Book Overview

When every hiccup sounds like the call of doom, each stomach pang hints at incipient cancer, and a headache means it's time to firm up your last will and testament, The Hypochondriac's Guide to Life. And Death. provides just the relief you need. Gene Weingarten has spent his whole life immersed in the eclectic details of bizarre symptoms, self-diagnosing every minor ache as a potentially deadly disease. Weingarten examines:
The mind of...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0684856484
• ISBN13: 9780684856483
• Release Date: June 2001
• Publisher: Simon & Schuster
• Length: 208 Pages
• Weight: 0.70 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 5.4" x 9.2"

Customer Reviews

The Hypochondriac's Guide to Life. And Death.

I picked up a copy of this book in a huge bookstore, because we were on vacation and I got sick. Tired of watching tv, I started reading, and within moments I was laughing so hard that tears were sliding down my face and I was actually snorting with laughter. There are some sad parts too, but Gene Weingarten, who writes a weekly column for the Washington Post Magazine, in DC, is one of my favorite writers, and I had always enjoyed his work. He speaks of illnesses in words you've always wanted to say, but never had, especially at the right time, and shows you that once you've been sick, and have been taken into the Medical Establishment's Mothership, LOL, you will never be the same again. Nothing will ever embarrass you about your body, because it will be hanging out for all to see, at any given time. There is nothing frightening about this book: it is merely a wonderful display of medical knowledge, personal history, and a fantastic sense of humor, on the part of the author. If you've ever even had a cold, you will appreciate this book!

The funniest book I have ever read!

My sister gave me this book and I was reluctant to read it because I thought it was going to be a serious psychological piece about how hypochondriacs are wusses and just plain crazy! I decided to give it a try and every pragraph made me laugh out loud! I am a silent hypochondriac...never go to the doctor unless I need a written physical for work but always diagnose myself by doing research on all possible illnesses that I think I may have. This book really hit home!If laughter is the best medicine then buy this book and heal (at least while your reading it).

hysterically funny

perhaps the funniest book(laugh out loud and be unable to stop).where dave barry would stop,the author plumbs the limits of true dementia. in the insanity every so often there is a little shock of recognition to puncture the condescention we feel for these poor terrified souls. a must read.

I almost died laughing. (I'm an asthmatic)

This is absolutely one of the funniest books I've ever read. Weingarten is a refreshingly talented author. He has a wonderful sense of humor and timing. He has managed to make fun of hypochondriacs, without insulting them. This is the only book I've ever recommended--and I'm a librarian.