Despite reading a lot of popular science books about the human body, I didn’t know anything about the vestibular system. I once knew someone who suffered from chronic vertigo and it looked so scary that it’s eye-opening to learn how many people share that affliction. The author is a medical specialist and writes in a straightforward, clear way. He makes a big effort to even make funny jokes and use relatable examples. Unfortunately, this may be a case of “it’s not you, it’s me.” My knowledge of the issue is zero and the book is a little too technical. I couldn’t grasp the most basic concepts and was a little bored sometimes. Several parts really caught my attention, such as how space affects our vestibular system and what experiments have shown of mammals and other species that go through gestation and early development in zero gravity. The final part is a how-to manual to approach your doctor about these conditions and, even if thankfully I’m not afflicted by any of them, it is helpful for anyone who needs to see a medical professional. So this is a great book for readers with a higher level of scientific or medical knowledge. Alas, I wasn’t smart enough.
I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased. Thank you, NetGalley/Columbia University Press.

Our balance is a magical work of different organs and aspects at play. In The Great Balancing Act, Sharon explains how our balancing act works, what systems it depends on in an accessible and engaging way.
The interdisciplinary quality of the book was amazing.
The highlight for me was learning about how and why our vestibular system matters for our thinking.

I have a vestibular problem so thought this book would be useful. Firstly, it’s an American publication so medical issues are treated differently. Secondly, it’s a book about the evolution and development of the idea of balance issues. It is highly readable, like having a conversation with the author. Lots of side comments and stray thoughts which are not as distracting as you might think. I don’t think I learnt anything new about my condition ( bilateral vestibular Hypofunction) but I have researched the condition extensively already. The book may interest those with a new diagnosis of balance issues or those caring for them.