Very informative read. It delves into the history of epidemics like Ebola and AIDS, revealing the intricate factors that fuel their rise. The author also highlights the struggle of institutions like the CDC against these diseases, amidst the challenges posed by ecological changes and urbanization.

The narrative critically addresses how political dynamics can obstruct public health efforts, with bureaucracy and political interests often undermining scientific endeavors. The author's thorough research sheds light on the necessity for global collaboration and the perils of ignoring scientific counsel due to political motives.

The book serves as a cautionary tale, urging for better preparedness against future pandemics.

The Troop by Nick Cutter

Go to review page

dark emotional sad tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

This horror novel made me feel a range of emotions, from disgust to sadness to anger. It tells the story of a group of boy scouts and their scoutmaster who go on a camping trip to a remote island, where they are exposed to a deadly parasite that was created in a secret lab. The parasite is a genetically modified tapeworm that consumes human flesh and causes horrific transformations and mutilations. The novel is full of graphic and shocking descriptions of the parasite and its effects on the human body, as well as the cruelty and violence that some of the boys inflict on animals and each other. The author also shows the emotional and psychological impact of the situation, especially on the characters of Newton and Max, who are the most sympathetic and innocent of the group. The last three chapters of the book are heartbreaking and infuriating, as they reveal the fate of the survivors and the conspiracy behind the parasite outbreak. The novel is well-written and captivating, with a fast-paced plot and a tense atmosphere. I also like how the author also uses interludes of interviews, articles, and notes to provide background information and relief from the main narrative.

Smoke Gets in Your Eyes: And Other Lessons from the Crematory by Caitlin Doughty

Go to review page

funny informative lighthearted reflective medium-paced

4.0

Intercepts by T.J. Payne

Go to review page

dark emotional mysterious sad tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

This book is a page turner that kept me on the edge of my seat, as I tried to anticipate what would happen next. The author does a great job of creating suspense and tension, as well as building a realistic and horrifying world. The characters are well-developed and complex, especially Joe, who struggles with his conscience and his loyalty to his family.

The most disturbing part of the book is the vivid description of the Antennas' suffering during the 'tuning' session, which made me feel phantom pains on my end. I could almost feel or imagine the agony and torture that they endured, and the anger and hatred that they harbored. The author does not shy away from showing the brutal and gruesome effects of the experiments, and the moral and ethical implications of such research. The ending of the book is sad and shocking, as it reveals the true nature and purpose of the project, and the fate of the Antennas and Joe. It also brought clarity on how and where the HQ are actually getting their Antennas from (if I understood the ending correctly 😅).

The End of October by Lawrence Wright

Go to review page

dark informative sad medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.5

Tender is the Flesh by Agustina Bazterrica

Go to review page

dark reflective tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Crisis in the Red Zone: The Story of the Deadliest Ebola Outbreak in History, and of the Outbreaks to Come by Richard Preston

Go to review page

dark emotional informative reflective sad tense medium-paced

5.0

Crisis in the Red Zone is a riveting and heartbreaking account of the 2013-2014 Ebola outbreak in West Africa, and the heroic efforts of the doctors and scientists who fought to contain it. The author delivers a masterful narrative that combines medical thriller, historical drama, and scientific exploration.

He vividly portrays the human stories behind the outbreak, from the two-year-old child who was the first victim, to the brave health workers who risked their lives to treat the infected, to the researchers who raced to develop drugs and vaccines. Preston also warns of the future threats of emerging viruses, and the need for global preparedness and cooperation.

I was deeply moved by the courage and sacrifice of the people who faced this deadly disease, and by the tragedy and loss that it inflicted. I was especially touched by the stories of the staff at Kenema Government Hospital, who worked tirelessly and selflessly to combat Ebola, even as many of them succumbed to the virus. Preston's writing is clear, compelling, and informative, and he does a remarkable job of explaining the complex science and history of Ebola.

More...

pimmy001's reviews 38 reviews

pimmy001's reviews
38 reviews