7 Unassigned Books That Every Med Student Should Read

Medical schools demand a lot of their students. In addition to classes, research papers, and exams, there is hands-on experience required to graduate. Medical students who somehow make time to maintain a blog will write about the same thing. They make a point to note that they usually have too much going on and not enough time to sit and take a break from the day. These bloggers suggest making time to enjoy a good book. And they’re not talking about a textbook! For those periods of rest, check out these seven unassigned books that every med student will benefit from.

The House of God by Samuel Shem

Due for a good belly laugh? Ask any medical professional, and they’ll recommend the cult dark comedy classic, The House of God. Samuel Shem (aka Stephen Bergman) is a member of the Harvard Medical School faculty. His experience in the field inspired him to write this book that follows a group of residents under the watch of who they call, “The Fat Man.” While the residents try to maintain their sanity and grueling demands of their time in the hospital, the rule-breaking Fat Man isn’t making it any easier. Find out why in this outstanding novel.

 

 

 

Origin by Dan Brown

The Da Vinci Code’s Robert Langdon sets off in a new adventure in Dan Brown’s 2017 novel, Origin. Set in Spain, Langdon attends a party at the Guggenheim Museum to hear a life-changing announcement. One of Langdon’s students, Edmond Kirsch, has the answer to two fundamental questions regarding human existence. But before he can say anything, the evening turns chaotic, leaving Langdon to solve a series of puzzles to uncover Kirsch’s controversial findings. If you loved Brown’s previous books, you’ll enjoy reading this during your downtime from studying. 

 

 

 

When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi

Paul Kalanithi “wowed” the literary world with his New York Times bestseller and Pulitzer prize finalist memior, When Breath Becomes Air. Kalanithi was training to become a neurosurgeon when at the age of 36, he received the news that he had stage IV lung cancer. He passed away in 2015 before he could see his writing published, but the questions he poses throughout the book are some that everyone should ponder over. Most of all, the book gives an excellent insight into the doctor-patient relationship that can make all the difference.

 

 

 

This Won’t Hurt a Bit (and Other White Lies) by Michelle Au MD

If anyone can relate to what med school is like, it is Dr. Michelle Au. Unlike other medical memoirs, This Won’t Hurt a Bit describes what life outside of a student’s study life is like. More so that it is almost nonexistent! All med students can learn a thing or two from Au’s hilarious stories.

 

 

 

 

 

A Case of Need by Michael Crichton

Heart surgeon J.D. Randall reigns supreme in the Boston medical community. When his daughter dies from a careless procedure, her father points the finger at fellow surgeon Arthur Lee. Arthur is charged with murder and sent to prison. His friend Berry believes Arthur is innocent and is on a mission to prove it. Was it murder or malpractice? You’ll find out soon enough in this exciting read!

 

 

 

 

William Osler Life In Medicine by Bliss

If you’re in school to become a doctor, you probably already know William Osler, the founder of internal medicine. While you may be turned off by reading a nonfiction piece in addition to all of your other textbooks, this truly is one to make time for! As a doctor-to-be, learning more about the life Osler lived will give new meaning to the job you are taking on. Learning how he helped evolve how medicine is today will shed new light on why patients treasure physicians who know what it means to have pleasant bedside manner.

 

 

 

Left Neglected by Lisa Genova

Thinking about becoming a neurologist? Learn what to expect from author and neuroscientist Lisa Genova. Sarah Nickerson is a busy career-driven mother who gets into a horrible car wreck. The accident leaves Sarah with a brain injury called “left neglected,” which steals her cognitive function on the entire left side of her brain. Things will never be the same for Sarah. Left Neglected will prepare you to see that people with brain disorders can find a way to continue to live a fulfilling life. But they need a hardworking student (soon to be doctor) like you to help them along the way!

 

 

 

These books aren’t just for entertainment, but good reads to practice your speed reading skills. Our Speed Reading Foundation Course will teach you practical strategies to enhance your comprehension so you can remember more of what you read. Ideal for all of your dense reads required to pass your exams to become a doctor. Click the link to find out more!