The Fast

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By John Oakes ’83

Published April 17, 2024

  What do Jesus, Emily Dickinson, and Abraham Lincoln all have in common? Well, they all fasted at one point or another in their life. Fasting has long been a religious practice and has recently gained an intense spotlight due to health advocates preaching its incredible benefits for weight loss and detox. In The Fast (Avid Reader Press/Simon & Schuster), Oakes takes readers on a whirlwind journey of the cultural and historical significance of fasting, as well as exploring the science behind fasting and the body’s fascinating reaction to this process on a molecular level. He also explores the social implications of fasting, analyzing its use as a tool for protest and solidarity. Fasting doesn’t just have to be related to food, though. This book offers a historical, scientific look at the practice of fasting, but also inspires readers to embark on their own quests to regain control of their life.

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PAW's July/August 2025 issue cover, featuring a photo of people dressed in orange and black, marching in the P-rade, and the headline: Reunions, Back in Orange & Black.
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