A Short History of Falling: Everything I Observed About Love Whilst Dying (Paperback)

'His voice is captivating, his observations are searing, and his book is a blessing. This book will inspire you even as it breaks your heart.' - Kathryn Mannix, author of With the End in Mind

'I loved this book, and read it in a day. It's surprising and uncommon and I don't think I'll ever forget it.' - Sunjeev Sahota, author of The Year of the Runaways

'A Short History of Falling is a beautifully written reminder that life can be tragic as well as full of joy.' - Christie Watson, bestselling author of The Language of Kindness

'Touching and tragic. It is very hard to imagine how anyone could write so lyrically, dispassionately and persuasively of their imminent demise and its effect on those around them.' - James Le Fanu, author of Too Many Pills

'An inspirational, ultimately heartbreaking account of experiencing life as the nervous system fails, shared with courage and humour.' - Professor Stephen Westaby, author of Fragile Lives

'It's something of a cliche to call memoirs about a terminal illness life-affirming. But you will cherish everyone and everything you love, not to mention the capabilities of your own body, all the more dearly after reading this beautiful, devastating and stunningly written memoir ... Hammond takes us with him into uncharted territory as his body slowly disconnects from a mind that is still pin-sharp, demonstrating on each page his awe-inspiring mental ability to reach for the truest words with a precision his physical self can no longer muster. My copy is full of pencil marks where I have underlined another searing sentence or gem of wisdom. This is a book that shines with the clarity that comes with knowing that your days are numbered, and I think the comparisions 4th Estate is drawing with The Diving Bell and The Butterfly and When Breath Becomes Air are entirely justified.' - Caroline Sanderson, Bookseller Book of the Month