This is quite an intriguing audiology text, which takes some time to get into. The first couple of cases are a bit obscure and off putting; however, by choosing individual cases to read, rather than reading through the book systematically, it is significantly more engaging. It appears to be aimed at both novice and experienced clinical audiologists, and it largely succeeds in reaching both audiences.
One of the stated objectives is to employ a common theme to all of the case studies, and this is generally achieved. Unfortunately, the upshot of this arrangement has been the addition of unnecessary material to some cases, and there were other cases that broke the common-theme rule.
That said, the book was certainly thought-provoking. It contains numerous case studies that will be familiar to many clinicians, and these are designed to challenge the reader to reconsider their everyday clinical practice. A seasoned clinician will be able to recall many similar cases they have seen and re-evaluate them in light of what the authors have presented, hopefully then improving on their own approach. A novice should be able to look beyond their university schooling to see the clinical application of a wide range of audiological issues, and thus adopt a critical thinking approach to their own work.
I found myself having polarised opinions of the book. I liked that it was quite comprehensive and provoked wider thinking about seemingly everyday cases, yet it had areas that were somewhat out-of-date, using older hearing aid prescription rules and overlooking modern hearing aid features and techniques that would be very appropriate for particular cases. I was also a little perplexed that the ‘outcome’ in a number of the case studies deviated significantly from, and did not correspond to, the sometimes incongruous case titles.
Overall a useful text, particularly because it provokes wider thinking, however clinicians should consider reading elsewhere to ensure opinions are contemporary.
