| Although many books have talked about rats, the plague, and more recent microbial threats, few have taken notice of the classic "vector" for diseases that have killed millions over the centuries: the mosquito. This book briefly describes for the general reader the biology of this pesky insect, the many diseases it has spread (and continues to do so, causing thousands of deaths across the globe every year from malaria, yellow fever, encephalitis and worse), and human efforts to control both. Though we don't often encounter it in movies, novels, and even history books, such diseases were a factor in everyday life for much of American history, especially in the South. The authors show how, even as recently as the Second World War, an army's ability to keep its soldiers healthy may have been just as big a factor in its ultimate success as its fighting spirit, communications, and weaponry. | ||
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Kind Of History Time of history: - 20th century - 19th century Nationality? History of a science? Yes Kind of science - Biology Setting United States Yes The US: - Deep South Asia/Pacific Yes Asian country: - Pacific Islands - India - Philippines Africa Yes Part of Africa: - Black Africa Water? Yes Writing Style How much gore? - 2 () How fast-paced is the book? - 3 () Accounts of torture and death? - generic/vague references to death/punishment Book makes you feel... - thoughtful How much focus on stories of individuals? - Focuses on brief history of a lot of players Minor characters feature lots of: Pictures/Illustrations? - A handful Maps necessary? - Necessary maps provided Length of book - 201-250 pages How much emphasis on small details? - 4 () |
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