From School Library Journal
YA?Where did the Black Death originate? How many kinds of plague are there? How widespread was polio? What is Legionnaire's Disease? This factual, yet fascinating, volume answers these questions and many more in a clear, readable form. Although it is a reference book, it may be read as a history and geography of world diseases. There is plenty of information in each alphabetically arranged entry, and suggestions for further reading are included for more serious scholars. A book that will enrich science, social studies, English, and other classes, as well as inform general readers.?Margaret C. Hecklinger, Lee High School, Springfield, VA
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Library Journal
Edited by prolific reference author Kohn (Dictionary of Historic Documents, LJ 5/1/91), this unique encyclopedia provides brief entries on most of the significant epidemics throughout history. A typical entry is less than one page and covers basic facts such as time and location of the outbreak, number of stricken, and any historical significance of the epidemic. A few suggested readings follow each entry, and a comprehensive bibliography of classic and current epidemiological works is included. Additional special features include a time line and a listing of epidemics by geographical area. The biggest drawback to this source is its arrangement. While the book is adequately indexed, most entries are alphabetized according to location of outbreak (e.g., Legionnaires' Disease is located in the "P" section under "Philadelphia 'Legionnaires' Disease' Epidemic"), which makes some articles difficult to locate. But though brief, the articles are also informative, making this a useful ready-reference source for general readers.?Tina Neville, Univ. of South Florida at St. Petersburg Lib.
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.
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