I Want To Thank My Brain For Remembering Me by Jimmy Breslin

 

Jimmy Breslin was known as a journalist in New York who focused his attention on the ordinary people of the city.  One of his most famous articles was his interview of the man who dug John F. Kennedy's grave after his assassination.  Breslin also was known for reporting on the Mafia which was strong and noticeable in the city at that time and was beaten badly by a member of the Lucchese crime family.  He also uncovered corruption in local government and covered the race riots.  

In this book, Breslin finds that he has an aneurysm on his brain and much of the book is dedicated to his reaction on finding he will have to undergo brain surgery.  He explains what the condition is, how he found the best surgeon and then reports on the operation from start to finish.  Of course, there is much angst before the operation although Breslin, who is a Catholic, feels he is ready to die if that's what's in the cards.  He is much more concerned about surviving but being unable to remember things or think.

Breslin is also known as the journalist who Son of Sam wrote a series of letters to.  These letters were printed in the paper and many at the FBI condemned Breslin, saying that his sensationalizing of the murderer extended his criminal activity and caused more murders.  Breslin was at the center of most events during the 1950's to his death in 2017.  He wrote columns up onto his death and always focused on the average person who was just trying to make it in the world.  This book is recommended for those interested in journalism, events of the time and autobiographies.