Invincible Microbe - by Jim Murphy & Alison Blank (Paperback)

About the Book

From one of the most acclaimed writers of nonfiction for children, Invincible Microbe illuminates the seemingly unstoppable killer that's been haunting us for centuries: tuberculosis. Well-researched and including over 100 archival photos and prints, this compelling "biography" of a deadly germ is a must-read.

Book Synopsis

"Who knew the biography of a germ could be so fascinating?"--Kirkus (starred review)

This is the story of a killer that has been striking people down for thousands of years: tuberculosis. After centuries of ineffective treatments, the microorganism that causes TB was identified and the cure was thought to be within reach--but drug-resistant varieties continue to plague and panic the human race.

The "biography" of this deadly germ and the social history of an illness that could strike anywhere are woven together in an engrossing, carefully researched narrative. Includes a bibliography, source notes, and index.

This medical detective story is also a social history of a disease that has known no social bounds. Treatment that began long ago as bloodletting, and the "healing" touch of a king, centuries later grew into a worldwide sanatorium movement for children and adults. Long considered a romantic illness amongst artists and poets, treatment was often unavailable to poor and minorities.

In the end, the effort to combat TB spurred the development of public health in America and, along with HIV and Malaria, the effort to fight for global health around the world.

A Junior Literary Guild Selection * A Booklist Top 10 Science and Health Books for Youth

Review Quotes

"Lively text complemented by excellent, well-placed reproductions of photographs, drawings, flyers, woodcuts, posters and ads . . . . Who knew the biography of a germ could be so fascinating?" --Kirkus Review, starred review"This is a solid and timely addition to nonfiction resources on sickness and human history."--VOYA, 4Q 3P J S"An engaging read."--Horn Book"The writing is crisp and clinical . . . Students researching diseases or medical breakthroughs will find this book both informative and interesting."--School Library Journal, starred review"Wide ranging in breadth, yet always well focused on the topic at hand, this fascinating book offers a sharply detailed picture of tuberculosis throughout history."--Booklist, starred review --

About the Author

Jim Murphy's compelling nonfiction books for young readers have received a long list of awards, including two Newbery Honors and a Sibert Medal. This is his first collaboration with his wife, Alison Blank, a children's media creator. They have two sons and live in Maplewood, New Jersey. Visit Jim Murphy at www.jimmurphybooks.com.