Book review: A dentist's story

  • B. Lawrence
Grosvenor House Publishing Limited price $8.99; pp 162 ISBN 9781781486986 | ISBN: 978-1-7814-8698-6

After reading a plethora of dental texts I was pleasantly surprised to find this autobiographical publication a refreshing delight. The author succeeds in maintaining interest by careful selection of anecdotes combined with a light-hearted tone and appropriate pace.

I particularly enjoyed the vivid recollections from Dr Lawrence's university days. Being a recent graduate myself it was rather interesting to draw comparisons (and certain similarities!) between our undergraduate experiences. It also gave me a greater appreciation of how significantly dentistry and dental practices have evolved over the years: '...it was not uncommon for a family of five or six people to share just one toothbrush' (!).

Although the dental aspect forms an integral part of the content, the author places equal emphasis on his personal development and encounters. The candid nature of the tone gives a very warm, heartfelt touch. It is apparent that the author has made a conscious effort not to overwhelm a reader not very well acquainted with dentistry; although I do question whether the theme would appeal to that audience in the first instance.

It is definitely an inspiring read following Dr Lawrence through his enormously successful professional career, as well as his commitment to spiritual interests. I would recommend this book to anybody in the profession looking for something uncomplicated and entertaining regardless of the stage they are at in their career.