Shapiro (family medicine, U. of California, Irvine School of Medicine) examines poetry and creative writing entries of medical students to analyze their thoughts and feelings about student life, the medical culture, socialization and the quality of their medical education. Intended for medical educators and students alike, this book addresses the reasons why medical students are often drawn to poetry as a way to confront their fears and experiences. The poetry is organized into sections that deal with separate themes such as separation from family, the doctor-patient relationship and the idea of death as a normal part of life. Annotation ©2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)