The Magic of Normal
Hope, Love and Beyond
From a childhood in Iran to steering a Silicon Valley biotech company that sold for $21 billion after delivering a lifesaving blood-cancer drug—then waging her own battle with cancer—Dr. Maky Zanganeh proves that family, grit, and vision can change everything. The Magic of Normal is fuel for entrepreneurs, parents, and dreamers everywhere.
"A 2% chance is not a 0% chance"
Maky in her early years
Maky during her battle with cancer in 2021
From Maky
When I decided to write this book, I was an intensely busy businesswoman working on a variety of different projects, one more important than the next. All pushing me in various directions. I have always been extremely ambitious, and it is hard for me to prioritize when it comes to dividing my time. The truth is, I finally started writing the book because life forced me to slow down. Fate decided to change things and pace my life to the rhythm of my cancer treatments…
And strangely enough at the same time, Covid stepped in and put the world on hold. A space-time dimension occurred where everything was punctuated by Covid…the different waves in different countries…in different continents…waves that alternated between hope and despair.
Maky and her father shared the remarkable moment of publishing their books together, a lasting bond before he passed away.
I was fortunate to overcome my ordeal with cancer in the middle of the Covid pandemic. Amazingly, my life was back in order, and I was able to continue my new projects in medical research with even more conviction than ever. So, I dedicate this book that traces my private and professional journey, to all those whose lives have been interrupted and dream of returning to normal one day. I dedicate it to every patient going through the uncertainty and torment of cancer. I want you to know you are not alone. You are shielded with science, innovation and discovery. In front of you lies comradely, courage and hope. A Persian expression states: "In despair hides a great deal of hope and at the end of the darkness of night is daylight."
What Readers Are Saying
Featured testimonials from readers around the world
A Transformative Guide to Redefining Success and Happiness
Maky Zanganeh's The Magic of Normal is an extraordinary exploration of what it means to lead a fulfilling life, both personally and professionally. This book is a breath of fresh air in a world obsessed with relentless achievement and material success.
SH
Amazon Reviewer
A Truly inspiring journey
The Magic of Normal: Hope, Love, and Beyond by Maky Zanganeh is an eye-opening look at what it is like to go through cancer treatment while also balancing the chaotic world of work and life. Maky lived a whirlwind life of travel and huge deals and arrangements until the COVID pandemic brought it all to a halt.
Phil Bolos
Amazon Reviewer
A powerful story of resilience and hope
This book is an emotional and inspiring journey that reminds us how life's toughest moments can lead to incredible growth. Through deeply personal storytelling, the author shares her experiences with hardship and transformation, making it impossible not to reflect on your own life and what truly matters.
GM Reads
Amazon Reviewer
Inspiring and Profound
What makes The Magic of Normal so compelling is the balance between Maky's personal story and her work in the world of medical research. You get the sense that she has lived both sides of the struggle, with illness and with the drive to find solutions. Her story does not try to impress. It invites you in.
Jacob
Amazon Reviewer
Normal never felt so important
Talk about resilience. This book was so important in the telling of this author's story. It's incredible everything she went through and how even then, she did not lose her motivation to live and even managed to help others as well. It was really inspiring this.
Andrea Cercado
Amazon Reviewer
A Captivating, Motivational Masterpiece for Leaders - 5 Stars!
The Magic of Normal by Maky Zanganeh is not just a beautifully written exploration of the ordinary; it's a transformative read for anyone in management or leadership. Zanganeh effortlessly captures the profound wisdom found in everyday moments, offering a refreshing perspective on how to lead with empathy, mindfulness, and authenticity.
Anahita Taylor
Amazon Reviewer
A must-read for entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone seeking motivation
Maky Zanganeh's The Magic of Normal is an inspiring and deeply insightful book that blends personal resilience with groundbreaking leadership lessons. Zanganeh's journey from war-torn Iran to becoming a biotech powerhouse is nothing short of remarkable. Her storytelling captivates, offering invaluable insights into perseverance, innovation, and embracing challenges.
Working Woman
Amazon Reviewer
A beautiful, inspiring book that will transform your life. A MUST READ!
This book is incredible and takes you through many individual stories that will touch your life in so many ways. Not only is the Magic of Normal, Hope, Love, and Beyond a unique memoire to enjoy and learn from, it is a book that you will keep by your side as a reference. It is a book you pick up when times seem tough, when you are looking for insights and advice, when you feel like you are struggling to move on from something that is challenging.
Amazon Reviewer
Amazon Reviewer