Talking to My Tatas: All You Need to Know from a Breast Cancer Researcher and Survivor

“These pages are full of science, social commentary, swear words, and, ultimately, hope,” writes Brantley-Sieders, a biomedical researcher and breast cancer survivor, in this thorough and punchy guide to the disease and its treatment. As a caregiver, the author has seen patients’ “horrors, heartaches, and triumphs” and as a survivor, has “experienced some of those things firsthand.” She begins with a cancer “crash course” that covers diagnostic tools, surgical options, pre- and post-surgery tips, and various therapies such as radiation, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy. Part two focuses on the author’s story, relating her diagnosis, which left her “shell-shocked, confused, numb, and terrified,” and a litany of humorous stories, including a pre-surgical “inappropriate flirting” moment with a doctor. Part three, “Science Savvy,” helps readers cut through the clutter of pseudoscience around treatments and cures, and the final section, a blunt look at “survivorship and finding a new normal,” includes a list of 10 things to never say when a friend is going through cancer (things “happen for a reason” among them). Brantley-Sieders provides no shortage of resources for readers to check out (surprisingly among them are comedians who discuss their cancer experiences), and the photos documenting her experience are a plus. The result is a heartfelt survey and a solid introduction to breast cancer. (Feb.)