"In these ten utterly absorbing tales, a master psychotherapist uncovers the mysteries, frustrations, pathos, and humor at the heart of the therapeutic encounter. And, in recounting his patients' dilemmas - the hopeless nostalgia of Thelma, who is possessed by a long-past love affair; the growing self-awareness of Carlos as he attempts to escape from the inevitability of his terminal illness - Dr. Yalom not only gives us a rare and enthralling glimpse into their personal desires and motivations but tells us his own story as he struggles to reconcile his all-too-human responses with his responsibility as a psychiatrist" -- Back cover.