The Merck Manual.

The ninth edition of the Merck manual represents another prodigious attempt to cover both the consolidated and advancing fields of medicine in a precise well-indexed small and convenient volume. To a large extent those responsible for its preparation have succeeded again in their stated intent. Although it is not intended to replace standard texts, the book will provide a ready reference for pediatricians to fields beyond their specialty.

In step with the times, this edition contains chapters on adrenocortical and related therapy and antibiotics. The general field of medicine is well covered from allergy to venereal diseases, and there are more than 60 tables containing information on subjects varying in range from routine immunization procedures to recommended daily dosage of thyroid for cretinism. Most of the illustrations are electrocardiographic tracings or diagrams of minor surgical procedures such as intra-articular injections and tracheotomy technique. Another useful feature is the inclusion of