There is an undeniable power to shared stories. Finding others who can truly understand an experience that you’re struggling with or discovering research that validates a symptom that has been dismissed by others – both rise out of stories shared and similarities identified. Here are 10 books addressing Parkinson’s needs to check out!
1. Starry Skies, Cosmic Shakes
a children’s book by neuroscientistists Alexandra Boogers, MD, PhD, and Tine Van Bogaert, MSc
A conversation starter for families affected by Parkinson’s disease and deep brain stimulation (DBS). The book is a loving and useful resource for parents and grandparents to discuss the complex topic of the disease and its treatments with their children. The authors feel that any person affected by Parkinson’s disease should have access to information, so they offer both a hardcover copy (for sale) and a free digital version, downloadable from their website.
2. The Parkinson’s Plan: A New Path to Prevention and Treatment
by Ray Dorsey, MD, MBA and Michael S. Okun, MD, authors of Ending Parkinson’s Disease
In The Parkinson’s Plan, two doctors on the cutting edge of Parkinson’s research detail the steps necessary to prevent, slow, and treat this debilitating condition. They show readers how to prevent the disease through the food we eat, the water we drink, the air we breathe, and the lifestyles we live. This book will be released August 19, but it’s available to pre-order now!
3. The Mistress
a collection of poems by Catherine Strisik
A masterful and intimate rendering of a marriage altered by Parkinson’s disease. It holds within its pages deep love and grief. It is sensuous and raw and, most of all, honest. Learn more about Catherine’s work and its impact in our 2023 interview with her.
4. Winter Stars: an elderly mother, an aging son, and life’s final journey
a memoir by Dave Iverson
Dave Iverson was a busy broadcast journalist recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease when he decided to do something he’d never quite imagined: He moved in to take care of his 95-year-old mom. Winter Stars is the moving story of their ten-year caregiving journey.
5. No Time Like the Future: An Optimist Considers Mortality
a New York Times bestseller by Michael J. Fox, actor & person with Parkinson’s
With his trademark sense of humor, Michael shares personal stories and observations about illness and health, aging, the strength of family and friends, and how our perceptions about time affect the way we approach mortality.
6. Parkinson’s: How to Reduce Symptoms Through Exercise
an instructional and inspiring book by Kristine Meldrum, BA, ACE
This award-winning book includes the latest scientific studies by world-renowned Parkinson’s experts, Parkinson’s Exercise Recommendations, and the author’s advice on making your own “PD Exercise Cocktail Plan™.” Embark on a journey of hope and inspiration as you read over 20 stories of people with PD who have used the exercise protocols in this book to reduce their symptoms and help slow the progression of their disease.
7. The Lions of Fifth Avenue
a historical fiction novel written by The New York Times bestselling author Fiona Davis, a person with Parkinson’s
This book may not have Parkinson’s subject-matter, but some people may prefer that to truly immerse themselves in a fictional world and leave thoughts of Parkinson’s for another time. In The Lions of Fifth Avenue, a series of book thefts roils the iconic New York Public Library, leaving two generations of strong-willed women to pick up the pieces. With a 3.9 rating from over 7,000 reviewers on GoodReads, this historical mystery is a great option for a mental escape. Learn more about Fiona Davis’ PD journey in our past webinar featuring her!
8. Brain Fables: The Hidden History of Neurodegenerative Diseases and a Blueprint to Conquer Them
by Alberto Espay and Benjamin Stecher
Despite decades of research and billions in funding, there are no medications that can slow, much less stop, the progress of these diseases. Brain Fables is a call to refocus on understanding living and aging to create the personalized treatments each affected individual desperately needs. Meet the authors on our past webinar.
9. A Son’s Journey from Parkinson’s Disease Caretaker to Advocate
a memoir by Dr. George M. Ackerman
George’s mother, Sharon, was his best friend. This is a heartfelt recollection of the beginnings of her Parkinson’s disease symptoms and his caregiving to support through her battle with PD.
10. Ending Parkinson’s Disease
by Ray Dorsey, MD, Toss Sherer, PhD, Michael S. Okun, MD, and Bastiaan R. Bloem, MD, PhD
For many years, this has been the “must read” guide for Parkinson’s awareness and activism. Four top experts provide a plan to help prevent Parkinson’s, improve care and treatment, and end the silence associated with this devastating disease. Learn more about how this book was used throughout our community in a 2023 blog post from a PMD Alliance Ambassador.
Bonus Book: Rising Above Parkinson’s
by Greg Ritscher, PMD Alliance Ambassador
Easy to read and energetic — this powerful guidebook aims to get you up off your couch and living your best life despite difficult circumstances! From lived experience, this book is full of practical strategies and thought models designed to help you work through your physical struggles and mental battles.
