Books - Frederick Grant Banting

Customer Review: Wonderful biography about a great man:
Sir Frederick Banting has been credited with the discovery of insulin. I purchased this book to find out more about him because my daughter has type I (insulin dependent) diabetes. Michael Bliss has done a great job putting Dr. Banting back in a place of honor. He describes his country upbringing, his determination and charismatic personality, all of which caused him to persevere where others would call it quits. In some cases, this hard-headedness was an Achilles Heel, but the author leaves that up to the reader to decide. One part I especially appreciate is that Banting wanted to match the insulin to the diet, not the other way around. This was so humane for the victims of diabetes, who at that time were kept on a starvation diet of "thrice cooked vegetables" to limit the intake of carbohydrates and prolong life. For anyone interested in the details of what brought about this life saving discovery, I recommend this book highly.

Customer Review: Great study of a Canadian hero:
Highly recommeded to anyone searching for a character study of a fascinating, well-rounded man and his triumph over diabetes.

Product Description:
Frederick Banting and the Discovery of Insulin is part of the series, Unlocking the Secrets of Science. This series profiles the achievers of the 20th century in the fields of science, medicine, and technology. Written especially for young adult readers, the series helps place each significant invention, discovery, or development in historical perspective while exploring the life of the person responsible for each breakthrough. No science fiction story even approximates the mystery and suspense contained in these true science biographies.

One of Canada's most renowned scientists, Frederick Banting is credited with the discovery of insulin. Early in his life, Banting saw suffering and wondered why doctors couldn't cure sick people. Banting knew he wanted to be a doctor; but he wanted to be a different kind of doctor. He didn't just want to help people feel better while they got sicker and sicker. He wanted to cure them.

In order to become a doctor, Frederick Banting would go against his family. In order to find a treatment for diabetes, he would go against the beliefs of some of the most educated men of his time. Before he succeeded, he would know poverty, hunger, and would lose the woman he loved. This is his story.

Product Description:
Recounts the life of the Canadian doctor who discovered the means of keeping the once fatal disease of diabetes under control.