Literary First Aid from A to Z. It's long been known that in difficult times, people reach for a book—to distract themselves from depressing thoughts or to seek sensible advice. British 'bibliotherapists' E. Berthoud and S. Elderkin went even further, suggesting that reading can heal not only the soul but also the body. They compiled a unique 'literary medicine book,' from which readers can learn which books are best for specific ailments. This reference book of literary remedies includes balms from Balzac, hemostatic tourniquets from Tolstoy, ointments from Saramago, laxatives from Perec and Proust, and much more. Furthermore, 'The Book as Medicine' is an excellent overview of the masterpieces of world literature.