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Small by Small : Becoming a Doctor in 1990s Nigeria - Ike Anya

Small by Small

Becoming a Doctor in 1990s Nigeria

By: Ike Anya

Hardcover | 18 January 2023

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This is the compelling story of Nigerian physician Ike Anya's path to becoming a doctor, from his intensely demanding studies to his beginnings as a newly qualified doctor. Moving, often humorous and always revealing, his account lays bare the challenges and rewards of his vocation.



Ike's compassion for his patients and their struggles develops against a background of huge political unrest in 1990s Nigeria. As student protests erupt, and universities are closed for weeks, democracy is threatened and at times crushed. From the small, longed-for baby of a rural couple, to the brother of a Lagos 'Big Man' who arrives at hospital with a gunshot wound, Ike learns about his patients and the society they live in as he learns how to be a doctor.



Full of fascinating stories from the hospitals where he studied and worked, in a society becoming modern, but hampered by failing infrastructure and bound by ancient traditions, this is a uniquely arresting book.

Industry Reviews

A small miracle of a book. It entertains with delicious storytelling, and leaves us feeling moved and satisfied, and all in a beautifully unhurried way.


An uplifting story of hope and ambition vividly recalled. Filled with fascinating characters and insights.


I raced to the end of this richly evocative memoir of the challenges of training as a doctor in 90s Nigeria. It's a good corrective to This is Going to Hurt.


A marvellously rich and lucid account of a doctor's journey, clear-eyed and compassionate.


Anya's wit is sharp, his humour gentle and his insights are so clearly based on an abounding curiosity and a deeply held compassion for his fellow humans.


Beautifully told.


A rich, alive and warm masterpiece.

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