Customer Reviews

Killer Germs

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Personally I'm no microbiologist, however after reading this book I have thought of changing majors. Simply because the world of Germs is so fascinating, more so than I ever imagined. Prior to having read this book I only started to study about viruses & bacterias from online sites on the subject. What I really enjoyed were the first three Chapters: Origins of Disease, Germs & Disease: A brief History, Magic Bullets, these chapters are highly educational on the history of Microbes & Man's interaction with these hidden beings.

I enjoyed the chapter New Kids on the Block, Flesh Eating Bacteria, & other stealth Killers. This book makes you question which creatures are really at the top of the Food Chain. I'd place my bet on the Microbial world This book is as fascinating as the Hot Zone if not more so because of it's educational value, a book that belongs in every one's bookshelf. Buy it! You will be pleased with it! -Nick-

This was an excellent piece of a fascinating and frightening look at germs. The Zimmerman Brothers explain the technical side of medicine and diseases with such clarity and understanding that I couldn't put the book down. If you are intrigued by germs, the fathers of medicine that paved the way for medical advancement, and the truth about how vulnerable we are, this is a can't-miss. One of the most important pieces, I think, are antibiotic-resistant strains of organims caused, in large part, by our own naivete.
"Killer Germs" is by far the best of the field I have ever read.

Killer Germs is comprehensive study of human pathogens that weaves in enough history and human interest stories to make it fascinating reading. I use it as my textbook in my Infectious Diseases course at the University of Missouri and the students actually read it. One student said in my course evaluations, "Thanks for picking a textbook that is enjoyable to read! I read it twice this semester and bought a copy for my Dad for his birthday."

Killer Germs is an excellent book for any and everybody who has an interest in diseases and how they effect mankind. Topics covered include the antibacterial resistance that many microbes have acquired, ebola, AIDS, dengue, hantavirus and many other emerging viruses. The book has an excellent conversational tone and is written simply enough for non-science undergrad major such as myself to understand. Recommended for anyone wanting to learn more about today's emerging viruses.

I used this book for one of my classes and I was dreading having to read a book about biology and diseases. After reading the first chapter I got hooked, and couldn't set the book down. I read it in three days while I was out hiking in the woods and it made me a little paranoid about ticks that might be in the grass and other insects! The book definitely makes you think about every living organism that is around you, on you, and inside you.

This is by no means a detailed book about any particular disease, bacteria, or virus. However, it is the perfect book for somebody who has never taken an interest in diseases or epidemics. It is very easy to read and entertaining.

This was a great book! I particularly enjoyed the historical perspectives regarding the foundations of microbiology. The chapters are organized in a very coherent and logical manner. Whether a layman or familiar with the subject, you will enjoy reading this book tremendously. I read this book on my kindle and found myself making continuous highlights on numerous quotes and analogies, which I found remarkably interesting. I would recommend this book to anyone from high school and up. Oh and this is the first time I am actually writing a review so imagine how impressed I was.

I read this book for a class at my university and enjoyed every page of it! The authors have a knack at making both science and history sound personable and exciting. I loved this book and I will read it again! I can't recommend it enough! :)

Killer Germs provides an excellent introduction and then some into the fascinating but deadly world of the infectious diseases along with their histories, their amazingly unpredictable ability to adapt and overcome, and the never ending pursuit of containment and eradication. All the biggies are covered; Influenza, Small Pox, AIDS, Hemorrhagic Fevers, Swine Flu, Lyme, etc., and Parasites. Particularly interesting was the chapter of the often forgotten "White Death" - Tuberculosis! The disease that has cumulatively caused more human deaths than any other pathogen since the dawn of man and is still going strong, and getting stronger! The book also discusses the little talked about but very deadly Prions and there potential to rise to the top of the public health threat list. Excellent book and highly recommended!

This book goes quickly as it is well-written, suspenseful at times, and intellectually stimulating. After reading it, I feel ready to have an intelligent discussion with a microbiologist. And, I have a healthy respect for germs. (no pun intended)

There is no question about the dedication Barry and David Zimmerman demonstrate in this short book. It is complete in its coverage of the subjects addressed, and is very easy to understand. This book is fun, and scary, reading. I feel it was well worth the money.