Dr. DeGowin has tried to do the impossible, and has almost succeeded. Within the confines of a book small enough to fit a coat pocket, he presents "both the methods of examination and diagnostic findings from internal medicine, general surgery, ophthalmology, otolaryngology, dermatology, neurology, urology, orthopedics, and gynecology." Only obstetrics and pediatrics (and psychiatry) are omitted.
To cover that encyclopedic scope, Dr. DeGowin has produced a miniature encyclopedia. He describes the examination of each region in enough detail to instruct the neophyte, and he lists physical abnormalities in enough varied abundance to enlighten the expert. Despite the frequently staccato style necessary to pack in all the information, the book is well written, flavored with many anecdotes and pleasant personal touches, including Dr. DeGowin's willingness (rare among medical authors) to refer to himself as "I." To complete the tour de force, Dr. DeGowin has prepared his own illustrations as line drawings