Peter Newman writes unforgettable stories of humanity that span continents and cultures, from the Amazon to the Arctic to Africa. His gripping encounters reveal a dedicated doctor who reaches out to connect with the hearts of strangers. Writing of his own doubts and feelings, he reflects on what it means to be human and vulnerable—for his patients, and himself. A blend of medical dilemmas and vivid journeys, In Harm’s Way will leave its mark long after the final page.
“Newman is a great storyteller who understands the impact of relationships. He weaves philosophy and family medicine principles into his stories, emphasizing the centrality of relationship. I love this book and the real-life adventures of a doctor.”
– Carol Herbert, Dean Emerita, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University and Professor Emerita of Family Practice, University of British Columbia
“An excellent storyteller with such precise observational detail that you will feel like you are with him as he walks along the border fence in the Golan Heights, or goes to Joseph’s village in Uganda.”
– the late Robert D. Orr, MD, author of Life and Professor of Medical Ethics, Loma Linda University (California); Professor of Family Medicine, University of Vermont College of Medicine
“Dr. Newman is a consummate storyteller. This masterful collection of stories brings us into the life of a dedicated, humane physician, who brings his skills to parts of the world where people are deprived of basic medical care.”
– Michael Gordon, MD, Professor of Medicine, University of Toronto, author of ‘Looking Through the Lens:Reflections on Medicine, Ethics and Society’
“What a treat to be transported into the life of a doctor who is endlessly curious about the world. Dr. Newman’s remarkable career spans continents and cultures and his stories remind us that medicine is never only about science—it’s about humanity, humour, and the extraordinary lives we meet along the way.”
– Laurie Gough, author of ‘Island of the Human Heart: A Woman’s Travel Odyssey’
“This is a remarkable book about a heroic doctor who puts his love of humanity at the core of his professionalism and professional expertise. Courageous, committed and brilliant, Dr. Newman puts them all in the selfless service of saving and fixing lives all over the world. An inspirational story for anyone who wants to know how to do their part to make the world better, one life at a time.
– Rosalie Abella, former Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada; Visiting Professor, Harvard Law School
“With thoughtful, lyrical, and sensitively crafted prose, Dr. Newman guides us around the globe and into his experiences as a physician who puts himself in harm’s way for the sake of others.”
– Alison Wearing, author of ‘Moments of Glad Grace’
This book was made with the generous support of the Manitoba Arts Council and the Canada Council for the Arts.
Erna Paris takes readers on a deeply personal exploration of how history is remembered, manipulated, and lived.
