Death Be Not Proud

A Good Read - Death be not Proud

Don't worry...I am not going to subject anyone to reading John Donne's sonnet "Death be not Proud." However, if you ever have the chance to lay your hands on the book of the same title by John Gunther, let me tell you that it is one of the best books you'll ever read.

I can't remember when I first read that book; maybe it was in primary school. But I remember it being a compelling autobiographical story...of the writer coming to terms with his son's illness. Johnny Gunther, was a lively, outgoing and intelligent teen who was struck by brain tumor.

The novel traces the real life events of Johnny' struggle with his crippling disease, and his parents anguish at seeing their son suffer. The writing is simple, and yet oh-so poignant. It's a heartbreaking tale...and yet, a celebration of a strong human spirit that refuses to be defeated.

Johnny refused to let cancer defeat his spirit. He really had a zest for life, and was there were many times in the book, I, as the reader, even questioned the unfairness of it all. Why did something so bad have to befall on him?

To top it all, they released the movie version of the book starring the then heart-throb, Robby Benson. He captured the sensitive character of Johnny Gunther to a T...and when Johnny died, I remember weeping buckets at the cinema.

I have always loved the books rather than the screenplay (yes...even the movie magic of Harry Potter cannot touch the magic of Rowling's imagination).

I am not sure if it is still possible to find a copy of the book. But if you are able to do so, please let me know.

Death be not Proud ... we all can learn a thing or two from it....about dignity, courage and an indomitable spirit...I know I have.