West Nile Story

Gregg Fisher

West Nile Story presents a wealth of information to both the non-scientist and scientist. Despommier has a fast-paced writing style that puts a very human face on the scientists involved. This avoids the typically dry, clinical and off-putting style of most science books. However, he doesn't 'dumb down' the information; it is accessible to both my high school students and myself, a Ph.D. in science. If your part of the country hasn't been hit by WNV, it probably soon will be - buy this book.

Mike Small

This is a very interesting and readable work of non-fiction. This book is important because it shows us that we humans are still connected to the natural world, we do not have total control over our environment, and that disease epidemics are likely to continue to strike us in the United States. The book itself is easy to read. The font style is simple and pleasant to read. The author’s entertaining writing style is easy to follow by lay readers. Reading this book clearly shows his (Despommier’s) superb teaching abilities and demonstrates his acute interest in how infectious agents behave. The book makes a number of excellent points and asks some good questions. New York is along way away (from Utah), but now I see all the nice new homes with fountains in their landscaping in this desert environment, I wonder, “Can it happen here?”l

Roland Scollay

An excellent description of the search for the cause of the dead birds and sick people who appeared around New York in the summer of 1999. The author covers the disease biology, the impact of weather and human behavior and the politics of public health in a witty and entertaining way. It is well worth being informed about this disease as it continues its spread across the USA. This book educates us in a way that is easily accessible to the non-expert. A most enjoyable read. Have fun with the chapter titles!