Surviving Survival

In 'Surviving Survival', Laurence Gonzales delves into the psychology of survival, exploring how individuals respond to extreme situations. Through gripping real-life stories and scientific insights, he unveils the hidden strategies that allow some to thrive while others falter. As he navigates themes of fear, resilience, and the human spirit, Gonzales questions what it truly means to survive. This thought-provoking narrative not only captivates but also challenges our perceptions of danger and safety. Prepare to embark on a journey that blends adventure with profound revelations about the instinct to live.

By Laurence Gonzales

Published: 2013

"Survival is not just about enduring the physical challenges; it’s about mastering the mind and understanding the profound depths of resilience."

Surviving SurvivalBook binding

Start Listening

0:000:00

What Readers Say About This Book

You have survived the crisis—trauma, disease, accident, or war—now how do you get your life back? A traumatic or near-death experience can change every aspect of the survivor’s being. It can erase the body’s learned adaptations, and in some cases, those who live through such a shock suffer more in the aftermath than they did during the actual crisis. In all cases, they must work hard to reinvent themselves. Combining harrowing tales of survival with lucid explanations of the science behind the body’s reactions to trauma, Surviving Survival offers a valuable and “intriguing argument about the adaptability of the human spirit” (National Geographic Traveler).

Mike & Casey Show Logo

The Mike & Casey Show

Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts

Key Points from Surviving Survival

About the Author

L

Laurence Gonzales

Laurence Gonzales is an acclaimed author and journalist known for his gripping narratives and deep exploration of the human experience. He is the author of notable works including 'Deep Survival: Who Lives, Who Dies, and Why' and 'Flight 232: A Story of Disaster and Survival'. Gonzales combines elements of adventure, science, and psychology in his writing, often drawing on real-life stories of survival against extraordinary odds. His style is characterized by detailed storytelling and an engaging prose that captivates readers while educating them on the complexities of survival in harsh conditions.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors
Laurence Gonzales
Published
October 2013
Publisher
National Geographic Books
ISBN
0393346633
Language
English
Pages
N/A
Genres
Mental HealthHealth and WellnessPsychologyPersonal Growth

Purchase Options

Amazon logoBuy on Amazon
BookShop logoBuy via BookShop

Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!

Similar books you might like →

The UltraMind SolutionBook binding

The UltraMind Solution

Mark Hyman

The Courage to Be DislikedBook binding

The Courage to Be Disliked

Ichiro Kishimi, Fumitake Koga

The Mythical Man-monthBook binding

The Mythical Man-month

Frederick P. Brooks (Jr.)

QuirkyBook binding

Quirky

Melissa A Schilling

Suffering Is OptionalBook binding

Suffering Is Optional

Cheri Huber

How to Fly a HorseBook binding

How to Fly a Horse

Kevin Ashton

Peak PerformanceBook binding

Peak Performance

Brad Stulberg, Steve Magness

New to BigBook binding

New to Big

David Kidder, Christina Wallace

The Power of BrokeBook binding

The Power of Broke

Daymond John, Daniel Paisner

Prague FataleBook binding

Prague Fatale

Philip Kerr

The Evolving SelfBook binding

The Evolving Self

Robert Kegan

Building a Life Worth LivingBook binding

Building a Life Worth Living

Marsha Linehan

American Mania: When More is Not EnoughBook binding

American Mania: When More is Not Enough

Peter C. Whybrow

Authentic HappinessBook binding

Authentic Happiness

Martin E. P. Seligman

Breaking The Habit of Being YourselfBook binding

Breaking The Habit of Being Yourself

Dr. Joe Dispenza

How to Be Strong, Healthy and HappyBook binding

How to Be Strong, Healthy and Happy

Bob Hoffman

Love in the Time of CholeraBook binding

Love in the Time of Cholera

Start Right Where You AreBook binding

Start Right Where You Are

Sam Bennett

Ella Baker and the Black Freedom MovementBook binding

Ella Baker and the Black Freedom Movement

Barbara Ransby

World War ZBook binding

World War Z

Max Brooks

WaitBook binding

Wait

Frank Partnoy

Thinking Body, Dancing MindBook binding

Thinking Body, Dancing Mind

Chungliang Al Huang

First, We Make the Beast BeautifulBook binding

First, We Make the Beast Beautiful

Sarah Wilson

The Broken LadderBook binding

The Broken Ladder

Keith Payne

Straw DogsBook binding

Straw Dogs

John Gray

A Tomb for Boris DavidovichBook binding

A Tomb for Boris Davidovich

Danilo Kiš

Manhattan BeachBook binding

Manhattan Beach

Jennifer Egan

BelieverBook binding

Believer

David Axelrod

Take your reading experience to the next level

Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.

Download on the App Store

Book Collections you might like →

Abi Tyas Tunggal's Book Recommendations

Abi Tyas Tunggal's Book Recommendations

Abi Tyas Tunggal is a distinguished author known for his impactful contributions to contemporary literature and digital content. He has garnered acclaim for his insightful storytelling and adept handling of complex themes, resonating with a diverse readership. Tunggal's work often explores the intersections of technology, society, and human experience, making him a prominent voice in modern narrative arts. Beyond his literary achievements, he is also recognized for his innovative use of digital platforms to engage with and expand his audience. Tunggal continues to influence the literary landscape with his thought-provoking and accessible writing.

View Collection
Andrew Huberman's Book Recommendations

Andrew Huberman's Book Recommendations

Andrew Huberman is a renowned neuroscientist and tenured professor at Stanford University, where he leads the Huberman Lab, focusing on brain function, behavior, and health. He has significantly contributed to the understanding of neural plasticity, particularly how the brain can change in response to experience and injury. Huberman is widely recognized for his engaging public science communication, which includes the popular "Huberman Lab" podcast that translates complex neuroscience topics into accessible insights for broad audiences. His research has been published in leading scientific journals, earning him numerous accolades and fostering a deeper public appreciation for neuroscience. Additionally, his work extends into practical applications, influencing fields such as mental health, vision restoration, and performance optimization.

View Collection
Jocko Willink's Book Recommendations

Jocko Willink's Book Recommendations

Jocko Willink is a retired Navy SEAL officer, renowned for his leadership during the Battle of Ramadi in the Iraq War, which earned him the Silver Star and Bronze Star. Transitioning from military service, he co-authored the best-selling book "Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win" with fellow SEAL Leif Babin, which has become a cornerstone in leadership and management literature. Willink has also written the "Way of the Warrior Kid" series, aimed at empowering young readers with principles of discipline and resilience. Additionally, he hosts the popular "Jocko Podcast," where he discusses leadership, discipline, and personal development. Willink's influence extends beyond literature through his Echelon Front leadership consultancy, helping organizations implement effective leadership strategies.

View Collection
Brad Feld's Book Recommendations

Brad Feld's Book Recommendations

Brad Feld is a prominent American entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author known for his influential work in the startup ecosystem. Co-founder of the Foundry Group, he has played a pivotal role in funding and mentoring early-stage technology companies. Feld is also a key figure behind the Techstars accelerator program, which has helped launch numerous successful startups. As an author, he has penned several essential books on entrepreneurship and venture capital, including "Venture Deals" and "Startup Communities," which provide invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors. His writings and active blogging have cemented his reputation as a thought leader in the tech and startup communities.

View Collection
Natalie Portman's Book Recommendations

Natalie Portman's Book Recommendations

Natalie Portman is an Academy Award-winning actress, director, and activist known for her diverse roles in films such as Black Swan, V for Vendetta, and Jackie. Beyond her successful acting career, Portman is a passionate advocate for women’s rights, animal rights, and environmental causes. She has a degree from Harvard University, where she studied psychology, and is known for her intellect as well as her artistic talent. Natalie has also directed and produced films and is a vocal supporter of the Time’s Up and #MeToo movements, advocating for gender equality in the entertainment industry.

View Collection
Bill Gates's Book Recommendations

Bill Gates's Book Recommendations

Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.

View Collection
David Allen's Book Recommendations

David Allen's Book Recommendations

David Allen is a renowned productivity consultant and author, best known for his groundbreaking book, "Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity." Published in 2001, this influential work introduced the GTD methodology, which has since become a cornerstone in personal and professional productivity strategies. Allen's innovative approach to task management and organization has inspired a global following, leading to multiple workshops, seminars, and coaching programs. His contributions have earned him acclaim as a thought leader in time management and efficiency. In addition to "Getting Things Done," Allen has authored several other books, further cementing his legacy in the field of productivity literature.

View Collection
Brian Armstrong's Book Recommendations

Brian Armstrong's Book Recommendations

Brian Armstrong is a renowned entrepreneur and author best known for co-founding and leading Coinbase, a major cryptocurrency exchange. His literary contributions include insightful writings on the future of digital currencies and blockchain technology. Armstrong's work has been pivotal in demystifying complex financial systems for a broader audience. Beyond his business acumen, his thought leadership in publications and public speaking engagements has cemented his status as a key voice in the fintech revolution. His dedication to innovation continues to influence the trajectory of global financial systems.

View Collection
Michael Gervais's Book Recommendations

Michael Gervais's Book Recommendations

Michael Gervais is a high-performance psychologist who works with some of the world’s top athletes, business leaders, and artists to unlock their full potential. He is the co-founder of Compete to Create, a company that teaches individuals and teams how to perform at their best through mindset training and personal development strategies. Gervais is known for his work with the Seattle Seahawks, where he helped develop the mental toughness and resilience that led them to a Super Bowl win. His approach blends mindfulness, performance psychology, and the science of high achievement, which he shares through his podcast, Finding Mastery. Gervais' insights on mental performance have made him a sought-after speaker and consultant, helping people across various fields optimize their performance under pressure. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the relationship between the mind and body and believes that self-awareness and mental clarity are key to achieving greatness.

View Collection
Brendon Burchard's Book Recommendations

Brendon Burchard's Book Recommendations

Brendon Burchard is a high-performance coach, motivational speaker, and bestselling author, best known for his books High Performance Habits and The Motivation Manifesto. He helps individuals and organizations achieve peak performance through strategies focused on clarity, energy, and productivity. Brendon’s work emphasizes the importance of personal growth and developing habits that lead to sustained success. He has coached Fortune 500 CEOs, Olympians, and other high-achieving individuals. Brendon is also the founder of the High Performance Academy, where he trains people to lead more impactful and successful lives.

View Collection
Laird Hamilton's Book Recommendations

Laird Hamilton's Book Recommendations

Laird Hamilton is an iconic American big-wave surfer renowned for revolutionizing the sport with his innovative techniques and fearless approach to conquering massive waves. Beyond his surfing prowess, he co-authored "Force of Nature: Mind, Body, Soul, And, Of Course, Surfing," blending practical fitness advice with philosophical insights, which garnered acclaim for its holistic approach to health and athleticism. Hamilton's contributions to literature also include promoting the benefits of a healthy lifestyle and inspiring readers to push their physical and mental limits. His work extends beyond the written word, as he continues to impact the world of extreme sports and fitness through various media and public speaking engagements. Laird Hamilton remains a towering figure in both the surfing community and the broader realm of sports literature.

View Collection
Adam Grant's Book Recommendations

Adam Grant's Book Recommendations

Adam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.

View Collection

Survival is not just about enduring the physical challenges; it’s about mastering the mind and understanding the profound depths of resilience.

Surviving Survival

By Laurence Gonzales

Frequently Asked Questions