The Gospel of Germs: Men, Women, and the Microbe in American Life
The Gospel of Germs: Men, Women, and the Microbe in American Life
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1999
Book Brief
BetaThe Gospel of Germs: Men, Women, and the Microbe in American Life
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1999384
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 19th-20th Century
1999
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Gospel of Germs: Men, Women, and the Microbe in American Life by Nancy Tomes explores how American society responded to germ theory from the late 19th to early 20th centuries. It examines the resulting cultural, medical, and domestic changes, highlighting the roles of scientists, healthcare professionals, and individuals in integrating microbial awareness into everyday life.
Informative
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
161 ratings
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Review Roundup
Nancy Tomes' The Gospel of Germs offers an insightful analysis of American perceptions of germs. Readers appreciate its comprehensive historical approach and engaging narrative. Some critique it for dense academic language, which may challenge casual readers. Overall, it's praised for its thorough exploration of the cultural impact of microbiology.
Who Should Read The Gospel of Germs: Men, Women, and the Microbe in American Life?
A reader interested in the history of medicine, social change, and public health would enjoy The Gospel of Germs. Fans of The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot or The Emperor of All Maladies by Siddhartha Mukherjee will find it compelling.
161 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
384
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 19th-20th Century
1999
Adult
18+ years
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