Ms Cassell has written a very readable book about women who practice surgery. In spite of the approachability, the book concerns an academic study, not a journalistic expose'. This study follows a previous anthropological study of male surgeons, and a dissertation in women's studies. This book will be of interest to people who are in the medical fields, those who study social behaviour, and those interested in women practicing 'nontraditional' careers. I think it would be of particular value for both men and women who are considering a career as a surgeon.

As a female surgeon, I am (of course) very interested in the subject matter. So many of the descriptions and explanations, of both the wonderful and awful aspects of being a surgeon, rang true to me. Along with Charles Bosk's "Forgive & Remember", I would highly recommend this book not only to any medical student, male or female, interested in a career in surgery, but also to any family member, loved one, or significant other of a surgeon. It will give you tremendous insight into our (rather singular) worldview, and how and why we "embody" it.