This life is told in remarkably clear prose with a delightful sense of irony. Among its many virtues, the book is a readable introduction to the history of the fledgling specialty of pediatrics. Dr. Goldbloom describes, without belaboring, the great obstacle of pervasive anti-semitism in medicine and his personal satisfaction at sweeping (some of) it away. Although it does not form a large part of this book, Dr. Goldbloom was also a steady contributor to the Jewish community in Canada.

His name, Alton, derived from Alter (elder), was chosen as an appeal to the protection of ancestors: before his birth his parents had already lost several infants. As a precious and precocious only child, he grew in tolerance and confidence facing each new challenge with simplicity and determination. We can only speculate on whether or not that background conditioned his choice of pediatrics.

The author’s singular verve and his passion for clinical medicine shine through the story, and his astonishingly detailed memories of schooling and teachers are captivating.  But he wrote little about his wife.

 He fathered a dynasty of physicians who continue to make great contributions of their own: in addition to his two sons, Victor and Richard, both distinguished professors of pediatrics, a grandson and great-granddaughter –Alan and Ellen--are also pediatricians and another grandson, David, is an eminent psychiatrist who—extrapolating on the Shakespeare connection--also serves as Chair of the Board of Governors of the Stratford Festival.

The author’s love of literature, his commitment to social welfare, and his tales of mid-twentieth-century medical and academic struggle, “Small Patients” is a worthy choice for users of this database and their students.