Spring Chicken

Stay Young Forever (or Die Trying)

By: Bill Gifford

Narrated by: Jeremy Arthur

Length: 9 hrs and 32 mins

Publisher's summary

From acclaimed journalist Bill Gifford comes a roaring journey into the world of anti-aging science - a place filled with extraordinary breakthroughs and dangerous deceptions.

Spring Chicken: Stay Young Forever (Or Die Trying)

Spring Chicken is a full-throttle, high-energy ride through the latest research, popular mythology, and ancient wisdom on aging and lifespan - from wrinkles and baldness down to the innermost workings of cells - that examines how human beings might be able to live longer, healthier lives. In his funny, self-deprecating voice, veteran reporter Bill Gifford takes readers into cutting-edge labs where scientists are working to achieve miraculous breakthroughs, like purging "senescent" cells from mice to reverse the effects of aging. He'll reveal what has happened with resveratrol, the "red wine pill" that made headlines a few years ago, how your fat tissue is trying to kill you, and how in the near future doctors will be able to prescribe life-extending medications uniquely tailored for each individual.

Gifford separates the wheat from the chaff as he exposes hoaxes and scams foisted upon an aging society and arms readers with the best possible advice on what to do, what not to do, and what life-changing treatments may be right around the corner. A mixture of deep reporting, fascinating science, and prescriptive takeaway, this is a brilliant examination of a universal obsession: What can be done about getting old?

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your My Library section along with the audio.

©2015 Bill Gifford (P)2015 Hachette Audio

Very entertaining and informative

I listen to this book in 2023, and although it is a bit dated, it was still worthwhile. The book is entertaining and well written.

very informative

loved it. This book is so full of information and research, that I've listened to it several times.

Informative, not too science heavy

This book goes into a ton of science but you don't have to be a scientist to appreciate it, it's explained for the layperson. That said, it seems like diet, exercise, not smoking, and sleep are the only things we have going. The book is funny and informative but there's no magic pill against aging if you're looking for one.

In Depth Look Into The Science and Personalities

Great insights, history, and story telling. I liked learning about the theory verses the actual practice and people who are currently living it.

enjoyed the book. lots if good anecdotes

the book looks in to why life expectancy is decreasing in the United States and other places.

Spring Chicken is a great book!

Great resource for those studying anti-aging- but also entertaining and a great listen. I’ve recommended to family and friends!

great book

great book. easy listening. very informative and interesting. the topic remains open. hope to see a second part in couple of years.

Excellent book and performance. Great info.

I really enjoyed this book. I heard an interview with the author a few years ago, and was intrigued. The book was definitely worth reading, with lots of excellent and interesting information.

Funny, fascinating, and engaging

Like Mary Roach's books, Bill Gifford's _Spring Chicken_ is a wonderful amalgam of amazing scientific findings, deep philosophical questions, and delightfully self-deprecating humor. He deftly balances empirical objectivity and personal subjectivity--Gifford is Everyman on a quest to find out how to stay healthy longer (he emphasizes not miserable Tithonian longevity but active, healthy "old age"). Part memoir, part scientific inquiry, part self-help book, _Spring Chicken_ also addresses the troubling consequences of a planet full of centenarian consumers. Favorite line: "The people who want to live forever are the same peo

Simply amazing

It's such an enjoyable read. Being able to Write science in an anecdotal yet credible form should be recognized as an art and a powerful skill that Bill masters without a doubt.
He did a great deal of research. Most of these scientists that he mentioned I've looked up to for years because aging biology is a passion of mine but Bill give a totally original perspective on the work of these scientists and compiles everything beautifully in this book. Amazing work!!