Matt McAvoy Book Review

When you see this book is written by a naturopath, you might think it just another comprehensive guide to how holistic therapy can help prevent cancer.  You wouldn’t be far wrong, but Jenny’s book is far more than just that.  Rather than sink into the terror her own leukaemia diagnosis undoubtedly brought, she has thrown herself, with unbelievable vigour, into compiling a vast guide into everything natural vs. unnatural, in relation to their respective benefits and risks to cancer recurrence or remission – “comprehensive” isn’t the appropriate word; this project is immense.

Obviously I read the book from cover to cover, and I wouldn’t recommend that you do the same; you’ll absorb very little from it that way.  But I do recommend highly that you add this book to your shelf – and by that I mean your physical bookshelf, in your study or dining room, as a permanent addition for anytime reference.  For that is what this superb book is all about: a hugely detailed, highly academic reference guide, listing every natural therapy or ingredient you can think of, from diet to exercise, herbs and spices and even chemicals we find in our day-to-day cleaning and grooming products.  It is not easy linear or casual reading, but it is an outstanding achievement, and a must for anybody resolute in preventing the onset or recurrence of cancer.  Clearly, of course, there is no known cure, but this book is – aside from chemo, radiotherapy, surgery etc. – as good a remedial solution as you’re likely to find.  As well as the themed chapters, the appendices Jenny has compiled are tremendously helpful and detailed; the index has been structured in section relating to types of cancer and differing aspects of treatment.  Furthermore, the information isn’t just of benefit to cancer prevention, but most of it can be applied to a healthier lifestyle generally; there is no one who wouldn’t benefit from this book.

This is undeniably grafted academia, intended to be as helpful and simple a reference guide as possible; in short, Jenny has put in the immense hard work so you don’t have to.  Endnotes and academic/medical professional sources are extensive, and the composition superbly written.  This is a high quality piece of academic work by a determined, driven author, who also happens to be a top drawer, articulate and hugely qualified writer of it – in many ways.  A highly recommended permanent addition to your library.