Hailing from Kingman, Arizona, Paul Kalanithi harbored dreams of a writing career. As a teenager, he firmly rejected the idea of becoming a doctor. This choice was influenced by his father's frequent absence from home due to his work as a cardiologist. This professional distance prevented Paul from plunging into the medical field earlier.

Paul spent the first ten years of his life in New York City. However, financial constraints prompted his family to move to Arizona. The state's dry landscape and untamed nature fascinated Paul. He gradually absorbed the "country facts" that guided his harmonious coexistence with the local environment. For example, he learned early on the importance of not killing a rattlesnake on his doorstep. The boy understood that such an act could lead to further encounters with the reptile's family.

Paul's parents faced disapproval from both sides of the family due to their Christian father being married to a Hindu mother. However, neither religion nor the words of their relatives became an obstacle between their love and desire to be together.

Paul's mother ignited his passion for literature. Novels like *Brave New World and Hamlet* became his closest companions. She encouraged Paul and his brothers to excel in their school's standardized tests, which provided the keys to prestigious colleges. She also pushed him to take Advanced Placement (AP) classes. This initiative significantly improved Paul's prospects of admission to prestigious universities.

His fascination with literature eventually led to a newfound interest in "lowbrow" books. After graduating high school, a friend named Abigail asked if he was interested in exploring this realm. Paul agreed. He read the novel *Satan: His Psychotherapy and Cure by the Unfortunate Dr. Kassler, J.S.P.S*. The plot intrigued him. It made him realize that the human mind operates much like other organs, governed by scientific laws. In addition to his literature courses at Stanford, Paul began to delve into biology and neuroscience. And so, a new chapter in his life began.