The diary of Jean-Dominique Bauby who, with his left eyelid (the only surviving muscle after a massive stroke) dictated a remarkable book about his experiences locked inside his body. On 8 December 1995, Bauby suffered a massive stroke and slipped into a coma. When he regained consciousness three weeks later, the only muscle left functioning was in his left eyelid, although his mind remained as active and alert as it had ever been. He spent most of 1996 writing this book, letter by letter, blinking as an alphabet was repeatedly read out to him. "The Diving-Bell and the Butterfly" was published in France on Thursday 6th March 1997. It achieved instant success. Then, three days later, Bauby died. "The Diving-Bell and the Butterfly", which records Bauby's lonely existence, is a book about the triumph of the human spirit and the ability to invent a life for oneself in the most appalling of circumstances.

About the Author

Jean-Dominique Bauby was born in 1952. He was the Editor-in-Chief of French Elle Magazine. He died on 9 March 1997.

Prizes

The diary of Jean-Dominique Bauby who, with his left eyelid (the only surviving muscle after a massive stroke) dictated a remarkable book about his experiences locked inside his body. A masterpiece and a bestseller in France, it is now a major motion picture directed by Julian Schnabel. / The acclaimed number one bestseller re-issued with a stunning new jacket to tie-in with the upcoming film / 'One of the great books of the century' Financial Times

Reviews

'Everyone in the country should own at least one copy.' Guardian 'The most extraordinary book of the year.' Daily Telegraph 'Read this book and fall back in love with life.' Edmund White 'The most remarkable memoir of our time.' Cynthia Ozick 'Life-enhancing and devastating in equal measure -- everyone should read it' Gloss magazine