Edited by Louise Kenny, Helen Bickerstaff, Jenny Myers

20^nd Edition (Published July 17) Published by CRC Press

ISBN 9781498744249

Price £37.99

https://www.crcpress.com/Gynaecology-by-Ten-Teachers-20th-Edition-and-Obstetrics-by-Ten-Teachers/Kenny-Bickerstaff-Myers/p/book/9781498744249

Incredibly versions of these books have been around for about 100 years (The obstetrics version first appeared in 1917 whilst the gynaecology version made its debut 2 years later). Now in 2017, 20th editions of both of these descendents now appear; fresh and up to date. These books are available separately and can be used individually or together, the choice is up to the user.

In this reviewed version, the books are bundled together though are still separate volumes and each comes with an ebook version. They are both relatively slim, paperback volumes but pack a big punch with lots of information on board. They can be used by undergraduates (I recall using them as a medical student) and can be very useful resources for doctors in training and also in primary care. They are highly readable concise but full of information and data and make an excellent pairing. The books also make excellent use of colour, are well illustrated and the text is broken up by sensible use of textboxes and tables.

Combined they provide good basic coverage, however don’t assume that basic means just about sufficient. I found the coverage to be just about right for primary care and I would think good for an undergraduate or a junior hospital doctor, an impressive good coverage for a wide audience. Midwives would find the obstetrics book, particularly useful.

The content can be accessed on a tablet or smartphone or also via website and the navigation of this is relatively easy and straightforward. I like smartphone versions because many people have their phones with them and so these books become very portable and more accessible as well as very useful and practical.

I think for what you get, this is an excellent price for what is on offer. Since these books have just got a new edition, they are updated and relevant to modern practice. This was confirmed by my usage and it is good to see that these books have moved with the times. Long may this continue for many generations of students and healthcare professionals in years to come.

Dr Harry Brown

December 2017