This book tells the story of the life of one man who suffered from neurofibromatosis. Through horrible physical deformities which were almost impossible to describe, Joseph Merrick spent much of his life exhibited as a fairground freak until even 19th century sensibilities could take it no more. Hounded, persecuted and starving he ended up being rescued by the distinguished surgeon Frederick Treves. To Treves's surprise he discovered, during the course of their friendship, that lurking beneath the mass of Merrick's corrupting flesh lived a spirit that was as courageous as it had been tortured, and a nature as gentle and dignified as it had been deprived and tormented.