A biography of the Nobel Prize–winning scientist who discovered neurons and transformed our understanding of the human mind―illustrated with his extraordinary anatomical drawings.
... well-researched and comprehensive ... Ehrlich’s biography is as focused and thorough as was Cajal’s meticulous work with brain cells. A worthy and needed contribution to the field of neuroscience.
... in-depth ... In this deeply researched and intimate book, Ehrlich illuminates his subject’s life and work ... In vivid detail, he describes Cajal’s emergence from childhood rogue to internationally celebrated scientist and chronicles unrelenting pursuit of knowledge within a volatile and rapidly changing world. Through colorful anecdotes about Cajal’s upbringing, education, career, marriage, and fatherhood, the author reveals his character in more detail than ever before, bringing him to life in clear and elegant prose. Cajal believed that scientific pursuit was indistinguishable from human self-discovery. Writes Ehrlich, he 'provided a deeper account of our humanity, the story of how our brains became what they are.' The book includes photos and anatomical drawings ... A beautiful composition that shows Cajal’s indelible contribution to science and art.
... serviceable ... Ehrlich concisely describes Cajal’s scientific work and situates him within the tumultuous political scene in Spain during his lifetime ... the author never quite explains how science took hold of him or what made him tick. Ehrlich does a fine job of laying out the particulars of his subject’s life, but readers desiring insight into his personality will be left wanting.
