Lia Lee was born in 1981 to a family of recent Hmong immigrants, and soon developed symptoms of epilepsy. By 1988 she was living at home but was brain dead after a tragic cycle of misunderstanding, overmedication, and culture clash: "What the doctors viewed as clinical efficiency the Hmong viewed as frosty arrogance." The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down is a tragedy of Shakespearean dimensions, written with the deepest of human feeling. Sherwin Nuland said of the account, "There are no villains in Fadiman's tale, just as there are no heroes. People are presented as she saw them, in their humility and their frailty--and their nobility."

Customer Rating:
Summary: An important lesson in Cultural Psychology
Comment: This book is an excellent illustration of the importance of cross-cultural competence in the practice of psychology, education, and healthcare. After reading this book, I cannot imagine a case where any professional could walk into a situation with a client from another culture and fail to take stock of cultural factors.
The story beautifully illuminates how culture 'colors' all of our experiences, impressions, and perceptions. ALL practioners should read this book and take heed in professional practice. Further, because this book only highlights the challenges for professionals with ONE culture, there is a message between the lines that all cultures require this deep and specialized look at the values and norms therein.

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Customer Rating:
Summary: Fascinating study of the important role cultural competency plays in Western medicine
Comment: A very interesting and detailed look into the life of this young Hmong child and the important role that cultural barriers played in her medical care. A wonderful account from both points of views. I would say this is a must read for any doctor.

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Customer Rating:
Summary: thought provoking
Comment: marvelous book, well worth a thoughtful read; a little Hmong girl caught between well-meaning medical establishment and traditional culture. In microscopic detail shows how caring is not enough--cultural knowledge and understanding is needed as well. The author did a remarkable job, not only is the research impressive but the book is a great read. One of the best books I've read this year.

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Customer Rating:
Summary: Came damaged
Comment: Because this book came along with two others, one which was quite huge and heavy, the book cover was damaged when it arrived. Other than that it arrived within estimated arrival time.

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Customer Rating:
Summary: Eye Opening
Comment: The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down chronicles the story of a little epileptic Hmong girl whose family does not accept the ways of the Western world and Western medicine. After reading this book, I find that I am more understanding to other cultures and ways of life. I too held almost an elitist opinion of the "American Way". This book gives a glimpse into the other side of the story. Good parenting is subjective and cultural. I definitely recommend this book to anyone who would like to become more open-minded and accepting.

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