BREAST CANCER-RELATED BOOK LIST

 

Following is a list of books I have read and/or referred to in my own breast cancer journey.  They are, by no means, meant to replace any information your own physician may give you.  The reference books mentioned are listed to give you a source to turn to for additional information.  The fictional books are listed to give you some fun, hope-filled, and pleasurable reading.  The spiritual books listed are there to provide a lift to your spirits.  I hope you enjoy any and all that you read!

 

Anita Cole – breast cancer survivor since 1992

 

 

REFERENCE

 

The Breast Book by Dr. Susan Love (4th Edition)

 

Excellent resource for everything you need to know about diagnosis, treatment options, and life with breast cancer.  Written in terms anyone can understand, it answers the questions on the mind of every woman diagnosed with breast cancer.

 

Breast Cancer Husband:  How to Help your Wife and Yourself through Diagnosis, Treatment, and Beyond – Marc Silver

 

Another excellent resource written from a man’s perspective for other men with guidance from men—but very helpful to women as well.  Even though it’s been 8 years since my last diagnosis and treatment, I found this to be helpful in reminding me that the decisions I made then were good ones, that my husband had been a wonderful caregiver and supporter then as well as now, and that we have been living a good life “beyond breast cancer”.  Throughout the book, you will find mention of other books the author was read or was told about.

 

 

FICTION FOR KIDS

 

Melanie Martin Goes Dutch by Carol Weston

 

A story written for the 10-12 year old set, it touches on the confusing emotions kids experience when someone they know is diagnosed with breast cancer.

 

 

FICTION FOR ADULTS

 

Reconstructing Natalie – Laura Jensen Walker

 

This is the story of a young woman finds hope and faith in the face of a breast cancer diagnosis—and along the way, she finds romance, love, and a ready made family.

 

Coast Road – Barbara Delinsky

 

Although this story was not written as a breast cancer story, it’s heroine is a breast cancer survivor.  The character, Katherine, was the inspiration for Delinsky’s book “Uplift” because many readers have found her to be an “inspiration for living a life that is not defined by breast cancer.”

 

 

TRUE LIFE STORIES – FROM THE HUMOROUS SIDE

 

Thanks for the Mammogram – Laura Jenson Walker

 

The true story of a young woman diagnosed with breast cancer on the day of her first wedding anniversary.  This story is filled with courage and inspiration—and a big dose of laughter!

 

Cancer Vixen – Marisa Acocella Marchetto

 

Written from a cartoonist’s perspective, this book covers life from diagnosis through treatment options, and then through treatment, all while the author/artist is planning her wedding.  This is a quick read filled with laughter and tears.  A portion of the proceeds from the purchase of this book provide breast care for underprivileged women.

 

UPLIFTING STORIES

 

Praying through Cancer – Susan Sorensen and Laura Geist

 

A 90 day devotional filled with inspirational stories from survivors and caregivers, this also contains prayers and Bible passages.

 

Nordies at Noon – Patti Balwanz, Kim Carlos, Jennifer Johnson, Jana Peters

 

Four young women tell the story of their breast cancer journey and friendship.  All 4 were diagnosed under the age of 30, and each young woman contributed a section to each chapter—and each chapter is a step in the journey of breast cancer.  Sadly, one loses her fight against breast cancer.  It’s still an excellent read, as death is a part of any life, and this one is dealt with in a touching and heartwarming manner.  A portion of the proceeds of this book also goes to various breast cancer charities.

 

Uplift – Barbara Delinsky

 

Written by best selling fiction author, this is a compilation of “secrets from the sisterhood of breast cancer survivors”.  Barbara tells the tale of breast cancer as both the daughter of a woman diagnosed with breast cancer as well as a woman who was diagnosed herself.  It is meant to do just what the title says—UPLIFT—because Barbara’s mother was diagnosed at a time when breast cancer was not talked about, and  Barbara wanted to provide support and inspiration to others.  Proceeds from this book benefit breast cancer research.

 

Finding the Light in Cancer’s Shadow – Lynn Eib

 

Even though this book was written by a colon cancer survivor, the stories it shares and the inspiration it gives applies to all who have been diagnosed with cancer.  There is light—and life—when one has been diagnosed with cancer, it’s just sometimes hidden in the shadow.  It is filled with Bible passages, timely words of wisdom, and a list of other books to read.