The Big Prick: Surgery, Surfing, and Survival in 1980's San Diego, (Paperback)

In the face of a new and terrifying pandemic, Dr. Nick Jordan and his young colleagues must find the strength to save their patients and themselves.

It's June 1986, and Nick Jordan has just graduated medical school in New Orleans and is headed west to sunshine-blessed San Diego to start a one-year surgical internship. Medical science has no answers for the newly discovered Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), which will wreak havoc among his patients. An accidental stick from a knife or a needle could mean infection and an agonizing death for the young doctor.

The specter of this new and incurable disease haunts Nick's internship with fear and uncertainty sooner than he anticipates. The heaviness of this reality is counterbalanced by the excitement, exuberance, and goofiness of Nick's fellow interns - all young adults who have suddenly been given real responsibility and power to effect change in their patient's lives. Working alongside Holly Spencer, a gorgeous colleague who might just be the love of his life, Nick faces his patient's dire circumstances with trepidation and grace.

As he rotates through various hospital services, including his desired head and neck surgery path, Nick encounters the extremes of human behavior and experience. The venture is often surreal - simultaneously bizarre, devastating, and sometimes even funny. Overwhelmed by the rigors of medical training in this stressful and dangerous time, Nick must develop the skills to persevere or quit.

Nick and his fellow interns' empathy, patience, physical endurance, and emerging medical skills are tested beyond reason. Through the crucible of a terrifying new pandemic, they forge friendships that help them find the strength to continue. Their journey is one of romance, humor, and courage. Together, they struggle to survive and find the emotional strength to heal their patients in the face of misanthropic supervisors and overwhelming odds.

The Big Prick will transport you to a time of joy and horror-and may even teach you how to surf....

"Riveting! Godin hits an out-of-the-park home run with his debut novel. I'm eagerly awaiting more from the charismatic Nick Jordan." - Ashley Farley, USA TODAY Bestselling Author