Waiting for the Monsoon

By: Rod Nordland

Narrated by: Peter Ganim

A legendary New York Times war correspondent delivers his unforgettable final dispatch: a deeply moving meditation on life inspired by his sudden battle with terminal brain cancer.

For thirty years, Rod Nordland shadowed death. As one of his generation's preeminent war correspondents, he reported in over 150 countries, many of which were in violent upheaval, and was no stranger to witnessing tragedy. But in summer 2019, during the height of India’s erratic monsoon season, Nordland was suddenly faced with a tragedy of his own: he collapsed in the middle of a morning jog, was rushed to the hospital, and diagnosed with a fatal brain tumor.

After decades chasing conflicts across the globe, Nordland, now confined to a hospital bed, found the strength to face more personal conflicts. He reconnected with his estranged children and became closer with them than he ever thought possible. He repaired a friendship with a best friend that had been broken for twenty years. The arrogance and certitude that dominated his every action was replaced by a lucid sense of humility and generosity that persisted even after he left the hospital. Norland’s tragedy became, in his own words, “a gift that has enriched my life.”

Waiting for the Monsoon is the exemplary story of confronting death with both eyes open, and of the human capacity to persevere even in the most difficult of times. With tremendous clarity, grace, and courage, Nordland has delivered a powerful final assignment, revealing how facing the unknown can transform experience and change our relationship to the world around us.

Supplemental enhancement PDF accompanies the audiobook.

A life well lived and importance of family.

Good depth into the of war correspondent. Appreciate the open and honest review of the early life trauma effects throughout his life. Helped me understand the true meaning of life and my values.

Good narration

Good story - well woven. Narrator had the pace and tone that matched the writing. Recommend it.

Hope… even when there is nothing to be hopeful about…

It dawned on me, how I too could have told my story but didn’t… Maybe someday I will find the courage to do so.

Black humor with terminal cancer

This is so well written about his life before and after his life with a brain tumor. As a former caregiver for a brain tumor patient, who succumbed to this nasty disease and I relate to the life after diagnosis. This led me to being an advisory board member of a brain tumor charity (End Brain Cancer initiative) so that can others deal with this disease the best way possible. Making them aware of all the possible treatment options and providing education to patients and caregivers. Rod Nordland was made aware of his options and will hopefully live longer than the 7% that make it 5 years.

Tedious

The author is self-indulgent. He deserved a better editor. Also, the storyline is chronological, which is dull.