Selected by Beverley van der Molen:

Tamoxifen and Breast Cancer by Michael W. DeGregorio and Valerie J. Wiebe (Yale University Press, 1995.) This book is aimed at women with breast cancer who are faced with decisions about medical treatment. The first two chapters cover general issues on breast cancer before the book focuses specifically on the use of tamoxifen. The authors use a question and answer format to discuss the indications for tamoxifen, its side effects, contraindications and its use in the prevention of breast cancer. There are plenty of references given to support their discussion, that can be followed up. I think this is an excellent book. It offers a balanced view of tamoxifen and while going into a fair amount of detail, the authors are aware they are writing for women who have little knowledge of medical terminology.

Healing Visualisations by Gerald Epstein (Bantam New Age, 1989.) Gerald Epstein trained as a medical doctor, specialising in psychiatry, before using imagery in his clinical practice. This book explores the use of imagery and its role in achieving and maintaining good health. Epstein takes the reader through some general imagery exercises before covering exercises designed for specific health problems. By following these exercises, individuals can take an active role in their own healing process.

Meaning and Medicine by Larry Dossey (Bantam, 1991.) This book explores the connection between the mind and body and its impact on health and illness. A doctor, Larry Dossey became aware that healing was more than just a physical process. He uses a series of clinical stories to illustrate the powerful influence of the mind on the body - looking at both the negative impact on health and the positive healing powers of the mind. The clarity of his style made the book absorbing to read and overall, I find Larry Dossey's writing inspirational.

You CAN Prevent Breast Cancer by Harvey Diamond (ProMotion Publishing, 1995.) Harvey Diamond aims to persuade women that their destiny is in their hands when it comes to breast cancer. Written primarily for women who as yet do not have any breast problems, it also addresses women who are newly diagnosed or who have already received treatment. Although a charismatic writer, I am concerned with the suggestion that his approach, which is primarily a nutritional one, will ensure a disease-free existence. The basis for his approach centres around the lymphatic system and its role in the healing process, removing toxins from the body. He proposes periodic mono-dieting, a combination of any raw, fresh fruits and vegetables or juices, to cleanse the body. For people interested in a nutritional approach, they will find this a fascinating book.

Reader's Digest Family Guide to Alternative Medicine by The Reader's Digest Association Limited (1991.) The term alternative in the title refers to complete healing systems, diagnostic techniques, complementary therapies and self-help measures. It is an eays to read, comprehensive book that has been edited by Dr Patrick Pietroni, who is well known for his interest in complementary medicine. The book looks at both common health problems and different therapies. An orthodox view is presented for each entry as well as views of different practitioners.

You Don't Have to be Your Mother by Gayle Feldman (Hamish Hamilton, 1994.) This book tells Gayle's story of how she coped with breast cancer on learning her diagnosis when she was eight months pegnant, and her experience of an induced delivery of her son and a mastectomy within the space of a couple of weeks. Both Gayle's mother and grandmother died from breast cancer, and throughout the book, she reflects on the impact this had on her. Although it is a moving account of a difficult and painful time, Gayle emerges in the knowledge that she is a unique individual and, as the title suggests, that her future does not have to follow the same pattern as her mother.

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Beverley van der Molen joined the Cancer Support Centre, Wandsworth as the Macmillan Cancer Information Officer in September 1995. A registered nurse, she has spent the last ten years in cancer nursing including time at the Royal Marsden Hospital. Beverley has worked both as a ward sister and as a Clinical Nurse Specialist in medical oncology, and through her extensive experience in the NHS is aware of the value of support and information for people with cancer.