Nobble Hospital of the Aegean

Paul Judges
PABD (2005)
ISBN 1905059574
Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (8/06)

A trip to Greece turned into more of a journey within, when a man injures himself while traveling there. He ends up in a hospital and spends a great deal of time in self-reflection. He also learns more about the Greek culture while he is hospitalized, and reminisces about past experiences and relationships. When he is finally able to be released, he continues on his way, but is hindered by his healing broken leg. He returns home and has to take time off from work. This leads to further reminiscing and fantasizing.

His accident teaches him to appreciate the little things in life, like a beautiful sunset or a good meal. He stops taking things for granted. While in Greece, he also thought about the aspects of his life that he has kept hidden. He says, “You go away on holiday imaging that everything negative will be left behind, forgetting that you are taking your own body and mind – the sum of all that has been good and bad over the decades.” For him, his excessive weight is a reminder of his overeating and drinking. This is further proof that no matter how much we try to run away, we cannot escape ourselves. The tremendous amount of self-reflecting that goes on in the story, made me think about my own issues and self-questions. Many “what if” thoughts are generated.

“Nobble Hospital of the Aegean” is a really good story to read. There are just over 140 pages in it. It is a great book to take along on a trip. I like the depth that the author has put into such a small space. I look forward to enjoying his other works.

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