Books

Catalogue



cover
3.5 

Title: Things That Matter
Authors: Galler, David (Dr)
Genre: Non Fiction: New Zealand
Pages: 224
Year: 2016
Publisher: Allen & Unwin
Language: English
Description: Intensive Care Specialist Dr David Galler is a man who on a daily basis has the opportunity to consider just what are the things that really matter. In the hands of this veteran Auckland physician, we journey through the hallowed doors of the Intensive Care Unit and into the lives of the patients and staff and beyond. From the nuts and bolts of bodies to the wider picture of New Zealand's health care system, it is not only the professional arena laid bare, but the personal too, particularly the story of his Polish Jewish refugee parents.

Subtitled 'stories of life and death', this is an enlightening and engaging book, refreshing in its blend of humanity and science.
Categories: Non-fiction NZ, Biography, Medical/Health, Morals/Ethics, Social commentary/perspectives, Content may disturb, Blind Low Vision library, 2019 Titles

Reviews

[Please log in to write a review]
By: CAMB 007 2025-05-21 15:56:59
4 
Some did not expect to like this book, but everybody did, and it led to a great discussion, partly because the structure alternating a medical topic with a human or personal story made for easy reading. With several ex-teachers in our group, there was much discussion on the health needs of children and how they could be better met. Cross-party support would be necessary to make this achievable. People's hospital experiences were shared with many noting the change in doctor-patient relationships. David Galler is a good example of a doctor caring for his patients and their families.

By: AUCK 058 2023-11-01 12:49:43
4 
This book sparked several lively discussions about the issues raised. Well-written. Informative and insightful, the book was appreciated and enjoyed by all.

By: GERAL 006 2023-04-26 11:53:44
4.5 
Group found the book very interesting. One of us said all politicians should have it as compulsory reading!

By: LOWER 018 2022-11-25 13:43:33
4.5 
This is a most rewarding read. The explanations of body systems and medical Science, interspersed with fascinating case studies, and underpinned by a strong and warm authorial presence, engaged me from the outset. The author's voice throughout conveys just what I would hope for in a medical practitioner caring for people at their most vulnerable. His wise and compassionate world view permeates every chapter, with no hint of the egotism that so often taints this sort of memoir.

By: TARARU 001 2022-09-30 11:56:47
4 
This was a classic example of a book most of the group would not have chosen, but all found a great read, and it generated a discussion that lasted for over three hours. An easily accessible read, and very thought-provoking.

By: AUCK 360 2022-08-16 11:39:12
3 
Most of us enjoyed this book. Especially as it is about health care in South Auckland. Felt the use of organs as chapters didn't quite work. Some felt there was too much medical detail. We all loved the last persoanl chapter about his Mum, when he moved from Doctor to son. A good read.

By: CLARK 001 2021-05-14 13:44:37
4.5 
All the group enjoyed the book. Easy read and inclusive, with the use of personal stories of patients to illustrate.

By: MOTUE 002 2020-10-21 14:41:40
4 
Generated good discussion.

By: CHCH 037 2020-03-18 14:15:55
4 
Made for a lively discussion.

By: WARK 005 2020-01-27 14:47:30
4 
Most of us liked this book, but some thought it a little rough going on the technical side. Style of writing was attractive.

By: WHAKA 017 2019-12-12 13:36:31
3.5 
An interesting book covering a wide range of topics.

By: AUCK 224 2019-11-18 14:39:50
4 
We had a good discussion particularly re end of life care and organ donation. Good blend of medical detail and biography.

By: TAUP 006 2019-11-13 14:41:52
5 
Healthy, wide-ranging discussion. Our book group was all positive about both the content of the book and the style of writing. Galler's empathy shone through his words. What a lovely man!

By: INVER 002 2019-11-13 14:39:34
4.5 
We all enjoyed this book. The doctor we would all like to have when needed. Great story, well-written and an easy read. His love for his patients shone through.

By: INVER 003 2019-09-07 15:17:57
3.5 
Overall our group gave this book a high score and all enjoyed it. They particularly liked the back story of David Galler's parents and the case histories. They all liked the compassion and empathy shown to his patients and the humour in places. There was much discussion especially about social justice and the insights to Pharmac. Interestingly the two lowest scores came from the Doctors in the group - perhaps it was too much like work!

 
The Book Discussion 
Scheme is a member of the Federation of Workers Educational Associations in Aotearoa New Zealand
BDS is a member of the Federation of Workers Educational Associations
Top