Adventures Of Cancer Bitch

Cancer. It’s not something any of us wants to deal with, especially when society’s expectations after a diagnosis seem to revolve around stoicism, solemnity, and silent suffering. But the “seriously funny” S.L. Wisenberg shows us another path in this sparkling memoir. From the first suspicious mammogram to the inexpertly delivered diagnosis, from the awkward etiquette of announcing a treatment regimen to one’s students to the logistical challenges and menu possibilities of planning a “Farewell to My Left Breast” party, she navigates her health issues with humor and charm. (Plus a healthy dose of sarcasm. You might think laughter is the best medicine, but it’s sarcasm. Really.) Along the way, she moves deeply inward to examine her own shortcomings, and outward to criticize ad campaigns of cancer charities, and inequities in the U.S. health care system.  The end result is a fantastic book, one that’s relatable for all of us who’ve ever dealt with an unexpected health issue—and especially to anyone whose reaction to an impending chemo regimen isn’t just to wail in despair, but to try wearing a mohawk for the first time.

This revised and expanded second edition features new observations and reflections from the author.