A Promise of Rest

Stories from the Commonplace

Non-Fiction - Memoir
150 Pages
Reviewed on 12/31/2025
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    Book Review

Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite

A Promise of Rest: Stories from the Commonplace by Ron Lands is a collection of vignettes that offers insight into the lives of patients with terminal illnesses, particularly those with cancer. Drawing on his extensive experience as an oncologist and palliative care physician, Lands crafts stories that explore the intersection of medicine, humanity, and the emotional complexities of life and death. Each story is a snapshot of a life touched by illness, showcasing the unique struggles, triumphs, and moments of grace that define the human experience. The narrative is enriched by the author's ability to weave medical insights with personal anecdotes, creating an informative and emotionally moving tapestry. His reflections on the evolution of cancer treatment and the importance of palliative care offer valuable context, while his vivid descriptions and introspective musings invite readers to contemplate their own lives and relationships.

Ron Lands' writing is heartfelt, capturing the beauty and fragility of the human spirit. This collection offers a meaningful exploration of how illness can shape and redefine our understanding of what it means to live and die. It will leave readers with a renewed appreciation for the power of compassion and the enduring impact of human connection. Those who appreciate literary nonfiction, memoirs, and heartfelt narratives centered on the human experience will find A Promise of Rest deeply moving. Fans of medical humanities and stories that explore life, mortality, and the connections between patients and caregivers will be especially drawn to this collection. Anyone familiar with Intima: A Journal of Narrative Medicine, which explores the intersection of healthcare and storytelling and emphasizes the human side of medicine, will find that the reflective and compassionate tone of Ron Lands' collection aligns perfectly with it.