Bleed, Blister, and Purge is a nonfiction historical reference I'll be keeping handy for future writing projects. Steele is a doctor himself with over a half century of experience, plus a childhood observing his father as a physician in rural Arkansas. The beginning and end were a bit slow, but overall, it made for a fascinating (albeit morbid) read. Of particular interest was the chapter on the Lewis and Clark expedition, complete with frostbitten penises and venereal diseases galore; the data and anecdotes on early doctoring throughout the rural west; and information of infectious diseases and contamination. Much of Steel's life was spent in Montana, and the book draws a great deal of material from the state; I found this emphasis refreshing. I also appreciated the way he compassionately wrote about the plight of Native Americans throughout the colonization period and up to modern times.

Trigger warning: there are some black and white pictures that might disturb some readers, like maggots at work and people with illnesses like measles. I welcomed them and the other illustrations that accompanied the text, but other readers should be aware. ( )