The Making of a Nurse.

The Making of a Nurse, a continuation of her 2004 book A Nurse’s Story, offers an exciting look into the little-known world of nursing, or, as Shalof states, “an up-to-the-minute follow-up of what nursing is like” from a nurse with 25 years of experience.

The story follows Shalof on her exploration of what it means to be a nurse in Canada and Israel, starting with her childhood experience caring for her ailing mother to her time working in various specialties. Shalof recalls the rewards and challenges that come with being a nurse, sharing with the reader the types of stories that primarily stay within the private world of nursing. In part, this is the journey of one woman’s effort to reconcile the image of the “docile, ministering angel with her less than perfect self as a nurse,” and her internal fight to live up to image of the perfect nurse. Shalof also includes many stories showing the more lighthearted moments experienced by a nurse.

Shalof’s prose is engaging and direct, giving the reader the sense that they are within her circle of confidants. She includes numerous stories of individual patients and fellow nurses, allowing for a broad range of experiences; however, there are a few times she jumps from one story to another quickly, which can make it difficult to follow.

The Making of a Nurse would be beneficial to anyone thinking of becoming a nurse and should be required reading for first-year nursing students. This is an honest and open behind-the-scenes look from an experienced, long-time nurse.