Drawing on the latest biological findings, Patrick Wall takes an accessible look at the causes and consequences of pain, both mental and physical. He also provides a balanced assessment of the possible cures, ranging from drugs and surgery through relaxation techniques and exercise to acupuncture and herbalism, the aim being to provide readers with enough information to control and understand their own pain as well as that of others. Yet this is no mere self-help volume. Rather, the author sets his scientific account in broad context, interweaving it with a wealth of fascinating - and sometimes disturbing - historical detail about famous characters who derive pleasure from pain, the unexpected reactions of injured people, the power of placebo, and so on. We come away with a realization that although pain is just one facet of our sensory world, it is also a remarkable and important aspect of our normal conscious self.