Oliver Sacks was one of the most popular science communicators of our generation, and a neurologist to boot. What he offered the world were highly engaging and eminently understandable accounts of the inner workings of the brain, through case studies of the inner “failings” of the brain. His best known work is The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat, which many readers might recognize, and which I highly recommend. Indeed, I postulate that many a neuroscientist today was inspired by this book during their formative years.
On the Move is Sacks’ second and most comprehensive autobiography, the first being Uncle Tungsten: Memories of a Chemical Boyhood, and which only focuses on his youth. Here the author unabashedly presents himself as a flawed man, gifted writer, and humble neurologist. He is unafraid to candidly discuss personal matters, such as his sexuality and his battle with drug addiction. This is much appreciated as a person’s life is always complex, nuanced and anything but perfect, and getting all these details makes this autobiography feel very real and honest. Moreover, glimpsing his personal demons not only elucidates his character, but also allows us to empathize with Sacks in a visceral way. In the end, we are ultimately reassured that even us, with our own travails, might yet attain some form of personal or professional greatness. Ultimately, this biography is both entertaining and inspiring, and well worth the read.
