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The Diving-Bell and the Butterfly

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The Diving-Bell and the Butterfly

By: Jean-Dominique Bauby
Narrated by: Richard Derrington
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About this listen

Whilst suffering from a condition whereby he was unable to speak and his only movement was the blinking of an eyelid, Jean-Dominique Bauby devised a code for each letter of the alphabet and dictated this book about his experiences and feelings. He died just after it was published. This moving, extraordinary book is read by Richard Derrington.

©1997 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P)1997 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd
Biographies & Memoirs Heartfelt
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What listeners say about The Diving-Bell and the Butterfly

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The writing is excellent

…to my amateur ear. It is a fate to be avoided if at all possible.

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A must-read for all healthcare professionals!

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

As a nurse, really opened my eyes to everything that we do matters to our patients and how its the little things that can make all the difference.

Any additional comments?

A lovely well written book and well read by speaker.

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3 people found this helpful

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Very moving

Incredible true account, told with humour where I think it would be difficult for most to not sink into despair. An insight into a condition I knew nothing about.

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Elegant and full of emotion

Despite the terrible situation in which Jean-Dominique Bauby was in, his insights are remarkable. Captive in his body which he felt like a diving-bell, his mind remains fully awake, and active , like a butterfly. He describes his state and feelings from that period in such of gratuitous style. The story is full of emotions. The voice and narrative of Richard Derrington gives more life to the story .

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Such a great imagination

Being in this poor situation is sad, he managed to bring his story to life. His body stuck in the dreary halls of the hospital, his mind still finds a way to flourish.

beautiful story.

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Truly beautiful

Every word in this book is thoroughly thought out and has it's place. Life affirming and powerful, yet immensely enjoyable.

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2 people found this helpful

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very moving story

Very thought provoking. But such a positive outlook on such a life changing situation.

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inspirational

One of those short books that you have to stop everything to listen in wonder. And just marvel. life is precious.

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Appreciation for life

A great mind held captive by the body. Well written and well narrated, this little audiobook managed to captivate me. I found this really interesting.The author paradoxically had a zest and appreciation for life that was well transmitted to me

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Lovely read !

I really enjoyed it. and I loved the narrator's voice, He reminds me of Anthony Hopkins :) Highly recommended 👌

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