Another book on euthanasia? Yes, but a different one. The press release describes it as 'a collection of interviews with ten well-known people who are helping to shape the debate surrounding the practice of euthanasia in this country'. There is a wide range from all sides, including Ludovic Kennedy (president of the Voluntary Euthanasia Society), Jim Howe (Tony Bland's doctor), Cicely Saunders (founder of the UK hospice movement) and Triple Helix editor Andrew Fergusson.

For those seriously interested in the euthanasia debate this book is quite indispensable. Its biggest strength is that proponents of all views have their say. The reader doesn't have to settle for second-hand tirades against the pro-euthanasia lobby, or vice versa, because all sides are represented first hand. The interviews are not long and the question-and-answer format means you can flick around quickly to find a certain person's view on a particular issue. Some of the material is not to be found elsewhere (for instance, Jim Howe's first major interview since the Bland case).

There are two caveats worth mentioning. First, it is not a book of 'how Christians should view euthanasia'. Only three contributors appear to hold Christian convictions. For 'the Christian view' there are other books available. This is a source book that gives a bigger picture than just one viewpoint. Information is presented for the reader to evaluate and this is done well.

Secondly, contributors are limited both by space and the interviewer's questions. You will not get their views on all matters relating to euthanasia fully laid out; more an introduction. It is perhaps a pity that little guidance is given for further research. However, there are a few mentions of other published work in the biographical details beginning each interview.

Both these considerations mostly reflect the nature of the book, not any real faults. As long as they are borne in mind it is a unique and vital contribution to the euthanasia debate. I highly recommend it as a valuable means of gaining a more balanced view of this crucial topic.

Reviewed by
Mark Pickering
(Medical House Officer, London)