Title: Wet the Hands
Author: Dr. A. H. Yurvati
Publisher: Yurvati Legacy Press
ISBN: 979-8991704809
Genre: Non-Fiction / Memoir
Pages: 120
Reviewer: Margie Przybylski
Hollywood Book Reviews
Doctor Yurvati’s memoir, Wet the Hands, weaves the coming of age tale of a Catholic school boy who was condemned to “never amount to anything,” among the rich American history of Allentown, Pennsylvania. A true American – born of immigrants, Albert recalls the comic moments of growing up. His anecdotes are charming to read, and the nostalgia allows the reader to think back on their own childhoods. Many of us can recall a teacher who was out to get us or being told we would never be successful. Fortunately – Doctor Yurvati was able to prove them all wrong.
In the introduction – Doctor Yurvati does hint that the memoir is actually a tale of love. He met his wife Sharon shortly after high school during his time with the Army where he worked as a Basic Medic. Throughout the book we see Sharon as Al’s guiding light – supporting him and nudging him in the right direction. Sharon and Al are a true team, each working together and caring for one another. Their love and relationship is just one of the many inspiring aspects of Yurvati’s memoir.
The world around Doctor Yurvati and Sharon completely changes – while the start of the book is lined with historic tales of the American Revolution in Pennsylvania, the end shoots readers into the present day – lying down in the back of a Tesla. Unfortunately, Doctor Yurvati receives a terminal cancer diagnosis. In the throws of COVID-19, Yurvati found himself in the hospital over the weekend of his birthday – his wife could not visit and celebrate with him. They are part of a generation that experienced immense amounts of change, especially technologically. Their love and fervor for life remains constant throughout the book.
Doctor Yurvati ends the book reflecting on his time as a resident and explains the meaning behind the title of the book. At first glance the title seems strange but once Yurvati sheds light on the meaning, he ties the book together in a nice bow. He shares that he and his wife have an endowment helping future students with their studies. While the diagnosis is grim – he does not let it bring him down and continues to make plans for his future. He ends the book with a heartfelt farewell to readers. The book is truly a gift to all students, especially those aspiring to be doctors. It inspires readers to continue to chase their dreams, despite what others may have predicted for their futures.