Everything in Its Place: First Loves and Last Tales

This eclectic and satisfying collection of essays spans myriad topics: childhood remembrances, case histories, travelog, as well as explorations of various subjects that piqued the late neurologist Sacks's interest over his lifetime. Thirty-four pieces are included, some of which are published here for the first time (dates and location of earlier publications are noted in the sources and acknowledgements). Reading about Sacks's love of swimming, his lifelong fondness of gefilte fish, and his joy when browsing library stacks is as compelling as reading the more scientific essays chronicling various case histories, aging, and dementia. One noteworthy essay is the previously unpublished "Travels with Lowell," which recounts Sacks's friendship and travels with photojournalist Lowell Handler, who has Tourette's syndrome. In each informative and engaging selection, Sacks writes with his characteristic compassion and attention to detail.