We remain impressed that Dalrymple is somehow able to review, or at least describe in detail, one new medically-related work of fiction every single week in the British Medical Journal. This, in addition to his many other ongoing essays, columns and books.

This week he introduces readers to Welsh doctor-novelist Rhys Davies (1901-78): “…for a reason that I cannot fathom — because he was a very fine writer indeed — he is now all but forgotten except by specialists and thesis mongers.”

BMJ subscription required.