Here is a book that I wish I had when I was a junior resident. Compact in size but replete with practical knowledge, Introduction to Surgery, by David H. Levien, MD, is an easy-to-read handbook designed for senior medical students on their surgical rotation and for junior surgical house staff. Thirteen of the 19 chapters present the most common disease processes encountered in general surgery as clinical case scenarios, followed by a discussion of standard investigation and treatment modalities. Though there is some variation between chapters in the depth of discussion, the amount of detail presented is quite appropriate for the intended audience.