We are never closer to life than when we brush up against the possibility of death. O'Farrell discusses the near-death experiences that have punctuated and defined her life. From a childhood illness that left her bedridden for a year, which she was not expected to survive, through her ongoing, daily struggle to protect her daughter from a condition that leaves her unimaginably vulnerable to life's myriad dangers. Seventeen encounters at different ages, in different locations, capture the perils-- and illuminates the preciousness, beauty, and mysteries-- of life itself. -- Provided by publisher.

Originally published in hardcover in Great Britain by Tinder Press, 2017.

Neck (1990) -- Lungs (1988) -- Spine, legs, pelvis, abdomen, head (1977) -- Whole body (1993) -- Neck (2002) -- Abdomen (2003) -- Baby and bloodstream (2005) -- Lungs (2000) -- Circulatory system (1991) -- Head (1975) -- Cranium (1998) -- Intestines (1994) -- Bloodstream (1997) -- Cause unknown (2003) -- Lungs (2010) -- Cerebellum (1980) -- Daughter (the present day).