Book excerpt: A compelling handbook for cancer patients, their families, and friends. Four long-term survivors, with more than 70 years of collective experience dealing with cancer, have put together a guidebook to help others who face this illness. The authors combine personal stories and experiences with practical tips for coping with side effects, information on tests and procedures, emotional and spiritual encouragement, and advice on how to let others help during this difficult time. "This book is many things: a pragmatic and practical handbook on dealing with the details of cancer treatment; a book with helpful and inspirational vignettes; and most of all, a story of friends...each exemplifies a depth of resourcefulness and optimism that has sustained them through the roughest of times." P. Kelly Marcom, MD Director, Breast Medical Oncology and Hereditary Cancer Clinic Duke University Comprehensive Cancer Center