The Oxford Illustrated Companion to Medicine

This is a dangerous book: once you start reading it you cannot stop. Subjects are ordered alphabetically (from abortion to zombification) and each is dealt with through an article of one to five pages summarising what is worth knowing about it. The book has a strong leaning towards historical aspects. It is supplemented by an excellent choice of pictures. There is not much complementary and alternative medicine in this book, but this is not why one wants to have it on one’s shelves. The foremost reason is that it represents a most valuable reference text on a wide selection of subjects. It will fascinate lay people, conventional and complementary healthcare professionals alike.