The Diving-Bell and the Butterfly

By: Jean-Dominique Bauby

Narrated by: Richard Derrington

Length: 2 hrs and 12 mins

Publisher's summary

Whilst suffering from a condition whereby he was unable to speak and his only movement was the blinking of an eyelid, Jean-Dominique Bauby devised a code for each letter of the alphabet and dictated this book about his experiences and feelings. He died just after it was published. This moving, extraordinary book is read by Richard Derrington.

©1997 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P)1997 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

Thought provoking

This was recommended by my GP colleague since it details the struggles and life of a man who to some people shows minimal signs of life. It shows how even the smallest thing can be important and that life should not be taken for granted since it is only when you've lost something that you realise how privileged you are.

It is well read and easy to listen to. It can elicit sadness and then laughter as you travel through some of this mans thoughts. I listened to this whilst driving and it made me reflect on how I approach life.

It's a story I will remember!

A must-read for all healthcare professionals!

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

As a nurse, really opened my eyes to everything that we do matters to our patients and how its the little things that can make all the difference.

Any additional comments?

A lovely well written book and well read by speaker.

inspirational

One of those short books that you have to stop everything to listen in wonder. And just marvel. life is precious.

Truly beautiful

Every word in this book is thoroughly thought out and has it's place. Life affirming and powerful, yet immensely enjoyable.

No big revelations...

It could be that it's just me, who expected a bit more from this book, but I can't help myself, but feeling to be let down a little. What did I expect? Probably some reflection, changes of perspective, transformation... It was mostly ramblings of past and present events, few imaginary inputs, that's about it! Why did he write this book in his condition? One might think, he had something of real importance to tell. Not that so. It appears it's just because the man was in a privileged situation and had means to do so. Most of people, with lesser jobs and less connected in his exact situation just wouldn't had had the actual possibilities to do just that.

Elegant and full of emotion

Despite the terrible situation in which Jean-Dominique Bauby was in, his insights are remarkable. Captive in his body which he felt like a diving-bell, his mind remains fully awake, and active , like a butterfly. He describes his state and feelings from that period in such of gratuitous style. The story is full of emotions. The voice and narrative of Richard Derrington gives more life to the story .

very moving story

Very thought provoking. But such a positive outlook on such a life changing situation.

Appreciation for life

A great mind held captive by the body. Well written and well narrated, this little audiobook managed to captivate me. I found this really interesting.The author paradoxically had a zest and appreciation for life that was well transmitted to me

One of my favourites

Incredible, just incredible. Poetic, painful, this short book was finished in one stint.. it’s that good!

Thought provoking

An amazing account of what life is like for someone in this position. Who new that an active mind was behind this stroke. The pain he feels the vulnerability of his situation. The good and bad staff. Every little detail is magnified in this book. Powerful reading and what a great accomplishment Mr Bauby.