Terrible Typhoid Mary

Books | Juvenile Nonfiction / Health & Daily Living / Diseases, Illnesses & Injuries

3.6

Susan Campbell Bartoletti

In a riveting biography that reads like a crime novel, Sibert medalist and Newbery Honor winner Susan Campbell Bartoletti uncovers the true story of Mary Mallon, a.k.a. Typhoid Mary, one of the most misunderstood women in American history. With archival photographs and text, among other primary sources, this riveting biography looks beyond the tabloid scandal of Mary's controversial life. How she was treated by medical and legal officials reveals a lesser-known story of human and constitutional rights, entangled with the science of pathology and enduring questions about who Mary Mallon really was.How did her name become synonymous with deadly disease? What happens when a person's reputation has been forever damaged? And who is really responsible for the lasting legacy of Typhoid Mary?Terrible Typhoid Mary also examines extreme public health measures at the time and public misconceptions around disease. Includes an author's note, timeline, annotated source notes, and bibliography.

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More Details:

Author

Susan Campbell Bartoletti

Pages

229

Publisher

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

Published Date

2015

ISBN

0544313674 9780544313675

Community ReviewsSee all

"This book is based on nonfiction events and has mas many sources included, but is written in a simple and intriguing way. I had heard of typhoid Mary before but did not know much about it. This was an engaging and straightforward book that helped me learn more.<br/><br/>I would note that the simple language and writing makes it seem like it is for younger readers--might fit in the YA section. Brings up the tension of public healthcare and individual rights."