71 pages 2 hours read

Abraham Verghese

Cutting for Stone

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2009

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese follows the lives of twin brothers Marion and Shiva Praise Stone, who are born in Ethiopia to an Indian nun and a British surgeon. The story spans several decades, detailing their upbringing in a Catholic mission hospital in Addis Ababa, their journey into the medical profession, and the political upheavals of Ethiopia.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Abraham Verghese's Cutting for Stone is widely praised for its intricate storytelling, rich characters, and evocative portrayal of Ethiopian culture. Many highlight Verghese's medical expertise, which enhances the novel's authenticity. However, some find its length and detailed medical descriptions overwhelming. Overall, it's a deeply engaging and educational read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Cutting for Stone?

Readers who cherish epic tales of love, medicine, and identity will delight in Cutting for Stone. Fans of Khaled Hosseini’s The Kite Runner and Arundhati Roy’s The God of Small Things will appreciate this novel's rich narrative, intricate character development, and exploration of cultural and political landscapes.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Historical Fiction

African Literature

Topics

Health / Medicine

Themes

Society: Immigration

Values/Ideas: Religion & Spirituality

Relationships: Siblings