This pandemic has been strewn with misconceptions from the vaccines, to the medications that could “cure”, to the ways we infect others with the virus. The truth comes to light through the eyes of an American travelling nurse, Grover Nicodemus Street, in Chasing the Surge. Mr. Street, a former US Air Force Trauma Nurse who now travels America working in hospitals in almost every kind of medical scene imaginable, recounts his day-to-day life during the first year of the pandemic. He talks about his up-close and personal experience with the virus, what he and his family went through to survive, and the emotional struggles he went through as a person in the medical field. Mr. Street explains in detail the importance of wearing a mask, sanitizing and distancing; teaching us what happens to our family and friends who disregarded these safety measures. During his recount of the past year, he has described multiple times how this pandemic is a war in and of itself.

This compelling medical memoir is conveyed in a diary-like structure. The timeline of the story jumps around, from a hectic hospital setting into Mr. Street’s childhood. This disrupts the straightforward narrative and instead we’re given a story that is well balanced between some heavy emotional subjects with some lighter ones. It creates a less depressing atmosphere and lets us get to know Mr. Street, what his motives are for sticking around during this crisis, and why he is an incredible nurse.

The story is fast-paced, and for the most part it covers lots of activity that keeps readers engaged. The story does have some medical jargon that makes the book feel authentic but could go over the head of a layman, but the author does explain the less well-known terms and phrases to help his readers along.

This is an amazing and endearing story that is sure to address people’s questions and insecurities about the pandemic. If you are still stuck at home, you should learn a little bit about why that is. This book is an absolute must-have on your nonfiction reading list this year.

Pages: 280 | ASIN: B08VMG8YM1