An overlooked New Zealand medical pioneer

Shortlisted for the 2025 Bert Roth Award for Labour History

Central Otago-born Doug Jolly was one of the greatest war surgeons of the twentieth century. Tireless, dedicated and courageous in his surgical work with the International Brigades in the Spanish Civil War, his surgical manual, based on battlefield experiences close to the front line, was widely used in later conflicts.

Frontline Surgeon traces Jolly’s remarkable career and restores him to the ranks of pioneers of modern medicine.

To look inside, click here.

‘Derby’s scholarship is excellent, informed by access to private and public archives, as well as extensive interviews, sources and bibliography. These leave no doubt about Jolly’s place among New Zealand’s most distinguished expatriates.’ — Nevil Gibson, New Zealand Listener

‘This long overdue portrait will fascinate anyone interested in emergency medical care, the Spanish Civil War or WWII military history.’ — Jenny Nicholls, Waiheke Weekender

‘Superbly researched and compellingly readable.’ — Professor Emeritus Sir Paul Preston

‘It was a genuine treat and pleasure to read this book and to be taken on a page-turning journey through the life of an extraordinary person’ — Maartje Abbenhuis, NZJH