Using The Canterbury Tales as a template, Dr. Nuland uses tale-tellers from 18 medical specialties to explore his title. Each is interesting and enjoyable even when it brings a tear to your eye. Someone who is both interested in the practice of medicine and pleasured by great writing would certainly appreciate any of Nuland's 13 books. I intend to read them all. ( )

The Soul of Medicine is a unique book. In its essays, doctors from a wide range of specialties describe their most memorable patients. These stories range from the dramatic to the touching to the just plain bizarre. In each case, the personality of the narrator comes through beautifully, and the commentary from Dr. Nuland ties all the narratives together well. Additionally, many of these most memorable patients were encountered decades ago, making this book an interesting glimpse into medicine in days gone by. ( )