There is one word missing from the text of this extraordinary book by novelist and playwright Jonathan Smith. Parkinson’s.
The fact that the author never mentions the word is significant. His writing is without a trace of self-pity and is yet a work that penetrates to the core of what happens when the body no longer listens to the brain.
The Physio, however, is far more than this: it is a re-examination of a life that has been totally shaped by literature. Books written and books read. The ‘physio’ of the title is the woman who works on Jonathan’s mobility. With her athletic background and boldly adventurous spirit she pushes him to understand better the human body while encouraging him to share with her some of his insights into the world of books.
In this way she is the inspiration not only to relieve some of his physical symptoms but lights the fire that became this beautifully crafted memoir.