37 pages • 1 hour read
Lori Arviso Alvord, Elizabeth Cohen Van PeltThe Scalpel and the Silver Bear: The First Navajo Woman Surgeon Combines Western Medicine and Traditional Healing
Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 1999A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The Scalpel and the Silver Bear by Lori Arviso Alvord and Elizabeth Cohen Van Pelt chronicles Dr. Alvord's journey as the first Navajo female surgeon, overcoming cultural challenges and gender stereotypes, and advocates for the integration of Western medicine with traditional Navajo healing practices to create a holistic approach to healthcare. The book tackles the effects of historical trauma on Navajo communities.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
The Scalpel and the Silver Bear by Lori Arviso Alvord and Elizabeth Cohen Van Pelt masterfully intertwines Navajo traditions with Western medicine through Alvord’s journey as the first Navajo female surgeon. While some readers found the pacing slow and desired deeper medical insights, the blending of cultural narratives and personal resilience captivates and informs.
Who Should Read The Scalpel and the Silver Bear?
Readers who enjoy memoirs blending medical journey and Native American heritage, like The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down by Anne Fadiman, will find The Scalpel and the Silver Bear compelling. The book offers unique insights into merging Western medicine with Navajo healing practices.