As someone who studied anatomy in my medical course several years ago, the only book that has remained permanently on my shelves is Cunningham’s Anatomy Textbook. This is an Oxford University Press publication from 1953 and was given to me by a dear friend who part with it to get my medical career off to a great start. To this day I admire his sacrifice, as she must have been as attached to him as I was.
Medical students today can choose from other excellent publications in this area. But I do wonder about the clarity and descriptions of the various body parts and if they are displayed and noticed as brilliantly as in this one.
While such a tome is heavy and not easily transported, there are other smaller versions on the market. They are undoubtedly passed on by those who do not complete their studies or stick with them as I have.
Anatomy books now come in all types, from paper books to e-books. One on Anatomy of Strength Training sells for just $26 online. There are also anatomy coloring books for about $30 paperback, while flashcards sell for about $40. If one could buy my book today, it would be about ten times that amount or more.
A muscle-only book is something most people would like to have, both in the world of bodybuilding and in the medical profession. It sells in paperback for just over $100. Another of interest is a book on healing pelvic pain with stretching and exercise techniques included. Even dance and fitness books are available.
As the world becomes increasingly health conscious, the variety and types of publications are expanding considerably. When I entered college in 1961, the options were very restricted and usually only available through dedicated or University bookstores. Now it seems that just about anyone can become an expert in what the body can do and how it does it. That is a breakthrough and modern technology promises much more to come.