Pandemic Survival: It's Why You're Alive

Gr 4–8—From anthrax to whooping cough, and a host of diseases in between, this book covers a huge range of global epidemics, describing their effects on people and civilizations throughout history. Intriguing facts and historical context are woven together, creating a lively and engaging read in its own right, but, coupled with some gross-out details about pustules, buboes, and a variety of other symptoms, it becomes a must-browse title for most collections. Loosely organized chronologically, the chapters move from speculation/best-guess theories about ancient diseases to more current epidemics, such as SARS and H1N1. Lengthy discussions about the Black Death, smallpox, and tuberculosis incorporate descriptions about medical advances and setbacks, as well as pioneering individuals such as Louis Pasteur and Jonas Salk, who were critical to the eventual control of these pandemics. The writing is lively and easily understood, and many of the chapters are introduced with anecdotes, either fictional or real life, that offer compelling hooks to specific topics. Cartoon illustrations dotted throughout the text add little to the book. A glossary and index are helpful additions, but the lack of a bibliography, source notes, or further reading suggestions are noticeable omissions in an otherwise informative read.—Jody Kopple, Shady Hill School, Cambridge, MA