THE RELUCTANT SURGEON

An unusually interesting biography of the 18th century John Hunter, the founder of scientific surgery. Ill-educated, Hunter was uniquely curious and observant. His studies necessitated such practices as grave robbing and self-experimentation, and in his work with venereal disease he himself becomes a casualty of syphilis. As a surgeon he was meticulous, operating only when it was absolutely vital; as a teacher he had such famous pupils as Jenner. A portrait of manifold interest, this should strongly appeal to students contemplating a medical career.