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Sum
128 pages, 2010
In Sum, Eagleman’s dazzling new work of creative nonfiction, the acclaimed neuroscientist and New York Times bestselling author offers a series of provocative stories that shine a brilliant light on the here and now. In one afterlife, you may find that God is the size of a microbe and unaware of your existence. In another version, you work as a background character in other people’s dreams. Or you may find that God is a married couple, or that the universe is running backward, or that you are forced to live out your afterlife with annoying versions of whom you could have been. With his probing imagination and deep understanding of the human condition, Eagleman offers wonderfully imagined tales that will change how you see yourself—and the world around you—forever.
In 'Sum', David Eagleman takes us on a journey through 40 different versions of the afterlife. Each version is unique and thought-provoking, encouraging us to explore our own beliefs about what happens after death.
Eagleman's book teaches us the importance of perspective. By presenting so many different versions of the afterlife, he shows us that our understanding of life and death is shaped by our personal experiences and beliefs.
One of the key takeaways from 'Sum' is the idea that reality may not be as straightforward as we think. Eagleman encourages us to question our assumptions and consider the possibility that there may be more to life (and death) than meets the eye.
In 'Sum', Eagleman demonstrates the power of imagination. He creates entire worlds and realities, showing us that our minds are capable of far more than we might think. It's a great reminder to let our imaginations run wild and see where they take us.
Finally, 'Sum' invites us to ponder the mystery of existence. Why are we here? What happens when we die? While Eagleman doesn't provide definitive answers, he encourages us to dig deeper into these questions and find our own truths.
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Sum has the unaccountable, jaw-dropping quality of genius. It seems exquisitely adapted to fill the contemporary longing for a kind of secular holy book.
Brian Eno - Musician, ProducerSum is terrific. It's such a good idea that I was grinding my teeth all the way through wishing I'd thought of it first.
Stephen Fry - Actor, WriterSum is a clever, imaginative, and darkly humorous book that leaves us feeling a little less lonely and insignificant.
Philip Pullman - Author, NovelistSum is a joy to read. It teases you, plays with you, amuses you, and surprises you.
Alexander McCall Smith - Writer, Professor
