"How comes it that one of the world's greatest scholars—doctor, scientist, philosopher, theologians, organist, lecturer, author—goes from Alsace to Africa, from a great European university to the Equatorial primeval forest, there to found a hospital and devote his accomplished life as physician and surgeon among sick and suffering Negro tribes? Who is this extraordinary, many-sided man, this humble and heroic man who forsakes a thrilling career in Europe to heal natives on the River Ogowe in the Trader Horn country? Well, read his own remarkable story, out of his life and thought. You will not easily lay this book aside. You cannot read it without being fascinated by the matter and becoming an admirer of the man.

"You will read of various great task all well done. You will find Albert Schweitzer the university professor and lecturer; the musician, playing organ recitals in London and Paris and Berlin; the doctor among his patients in Strasbourg and Africa; the preacher and pastor; the author, writing epoch making books on Jesus and Paul, on philosophy, on Johann Sebastian Bach and his music; the expert on organ construction; the authority on comparative religions.

"See him—at medicine and surgery—taming the jungle—charring logs for hospital construction—prisoner of war, with his brave wife, doctoring fellow prisoners—receiving degrees in England and Europe—making journeys of mercy among Negro tribes—receiving the Goethe Prize at Frankfurt—practicing on his piano (equipped with organ pedals) late at night on the edge of the African forest—playing a Bach recital in Paris with his friend, Widor, or giving lectures and recitals all over Europe to raise funds for his hospital at Lambaréné. Was there ever such a capable, versatile, ubiquitous, and altogether human and companionable giant among men? Yet how humble and with what a sense of humor!

"When you have read this book, if you wish to help in his work, you may do so through me, his friend and American representative."

KARL REILAND
St. George's Church
209 East 16th Street
New York, N.Y.

From the dust jacket of the first American Edition, Out of My Life and Thought