The Bottom Line
Overall, this is an excellent read and while, as it turns out, the map was produced after the cholera epidemic ended, the book remains an interesting historical account of the beginnings of epidemiology.
Pros
- A great narrative and fun read
- A thorough history
- Includes nice images, including the map of deaths
Cons
- In order to be book-length, there may be more narrative than necessary
Description
- As of this writing, the book is available in hardcover.
- The book is 320 pages long and includes several photos and illustrations.
- Includes an extensive bibliography.
Guide Review - The Ghost Map: The Story of London's Most Terrifying Epidemic
The Ghost Map by Stephen Johnson is a historical and biographical account of the 1854 cholera epidemic that raged through part of London.
The book sets the stage of the social, political, and sanitary conditions of the day in London of two million people. It then traces the activities of the famous Doctor John Snow and the less famous Reverend Henry Whitehead. It follows their activities leading up to, during and after the cholera crisis.
Much of the book focuses on the aftermath of the crisis, once the pump handle was removed. The author also works hard to relate the crisis of 1854 to threats public health emergencies and terrorism of today.
