Kenneth Kamler,
Surviving the Extremes:
A Doctor's Journey to the Limits of Human Endurance

(St. Martin's Press, 2004)


Surviving the Extremes: A Doctor's Journey to the Limits of Human Endurance is a scientific thriller and adventure book in one!

First off, the writing is superior in style and content. In fact, some of the lines in the book feel as if they were composed more for a classic piece of literature than a book on survival.

Next, the credentials of Dr. Kenneth Kamler -- surgeon and explorer -- are beyond dispute; therefore, I truly believe what he writes. His education and experience provide him with a unique voice in this genre. I really appreciated his behind the curtain look at different indigenous cultures. This greatly added to the book.

The book is divided into six sections:

1. Jungle
2. High seas
3. Desert
4. Underwater
5. High Altitude
6. Outer Space

Using firsthand, documented accounts, these tales show us how complex and sadly fragile the human body actually is. At its essence, this book gives us a broad stroke view of the source of the will to survive. It opens the door for us to peer into and question why some survive and others perish far too soon. Tapping into this knowledge and becoming aware of the fine line between success and failure should benefit everyone. Indeed, the lessons in this book can be used in other areas of our lives.




Rambles.NET
book review by
Michael L. Gooch



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