A wonderful and exceptional collection of beautifully written psychological case studies. In the six tales of psychoanalysis he recounts, Yalom presents us with a cast of unforgettable characters—Paula, who confronts and defies death; Magnolia, into whose broad lap Yalom longs to pour his grief; Irene, who seeks out and immerses himself in anger; and the conservative mother who refuses to part from her son and visits Yalom in his dreams, trying to influence his thoughts. In these tales of psychotherapy, Irvin Yalom displays his rich experience as a therapist, his vast knowledge of philosophy and literature, and his profound humanity. He draws the reader into his stories and anecdotes with the same skill he uses in treating his patients.