The Last Lecture
If you were going to die, and had one last lecture, what would you say to your students?
This question is the premise of an academic tradition called the “Last Lecture,” which allows professors to share their wisdom with their students. But for the late Professor Randy Pausch, it wasn’t a hypothetical scenario. Diagnosed with cancer, he only had months to live when he gave his Last Lecture this past September. It was the lecture of a lifetime. Titled “Really Achieving Your Childhood Dreams,” it encouraged people to dream big, to be strong in the face of adversity, to never lose the wonder and to help others achieve their own dreams. Wise, witty and incredibly moving, it became a global phenomenon: viewed online by millions, featured on numerous TV programs and linked to by legions of Websites.
In this volume, Pausch expanded on his lecture, elaborating on his message and sharing how he learned each of the lessons outlined in his talk. As he said, “It’s not about how to achieve your dreams. It’s about how to lead your life. If you live your life the right way, the karma will take care of itself. The dreams will come to you.”
This is one of the most inspiring books we’ve read in a long while.
Hardcover Book : 224 pages
Publisher: Hyperion Bks/Imp of Buena Vista Books ( April 09, 2008 )
Item #: 12-561602
ISBN: 9781401323257
Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 8.25 inches
Product Weight: 9.0 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
February 25, 2013
Reviewer: Judianne R
OKAY 
May 18, 2012
This was an okay read, however, I could not really relate to the author as we had very different childhoods and other opportunities in our lives. While I admire him for sharing his experiences, I thought there would be more insights for the general population and did not expect so much biography. I was disappointed with the "wisdom" offered in this text. I do wish him and his family peace.
Reviewer: mary m
Loved It!
July 30, 2010
I loved this book. I was given this book when I found out I had breast cancer. I figured with all his courage and outlook on life, I could make it past this small trial in my life. I am thankful I had this book to read as it made me realize how short and precious life really is.
Reviewer: Tammy
Not that impressed
April 29, 2010
I read the book but, was not very impressed. I was not inspired by the content as much as I was the idea of having six months to live.
Reviewer: Kem
Epic.
December 19, 2009
This piece of literature is epic. Reading this book has been the most stimulating thing I have ever experienced. It may be because I am younger that I truly attempted to stop after reading and evaluate how I was living, if I was living and what living was. Of course, I was crying less than two pages in and I knew I was in for it. I have some amazing professors but I would give anything for an hour lecture given by Randy. I believe this should be a required reading of all students and I am suggesting it to a previous professor I had for a Death and Dying course...how fitting. If you are reading these reviews- READ THIS BOOK. It will change your life, you have my word.
Reviewer: Whitney.
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