DISEASES WITHOUT BORDERS

A biological and historical primer on plagues.

Lucid definitions and explanations distinguish this work that’s deeply respectful of readers’ intelligence. The information-rich text includes ample historical context alongside scientific content—for example, a chapter about the Black Death includes a clear breakdown of the difference between the three types of plague caused by Yersinia pestis and describes how the Little Ice Age—resulting from a volcanic eruption—pushed infected rats into the Silk Road trade routes. Zimmer covers the impact of human behavior on diseases in a chapter on influenza that highlights how modern travel enables faster spread, while also concisely explaining what the “H” and “N” in flu strains mean and how viral reassortment in pigs can help an avian flu mutate to infect humans. The description of dengue fever shows how urbanization and social inequity increase contagion. The chapter “Malaria and Climate Change” includes excellent descriptions of how the Plasmodia parasite operates, the expanding habitats of pathogens and disease vectors, and predictions of future disease spread. Coronaviruses are covered in a chapter on MERS, SARS, and Covid-19 that explains animal disease spillover and how scientists track mutations. A final chapter tackles the metaphorical disease of misinformation. The book concludes with a call for “a more resilient global health system” that promotes equity and “prioritizes truth over fear.” Sidebars, charts, and graphics enhance understanding.

An exceptionally clear and inspiring resource combining a human-centered narrative with compelling science.