Mix-It-Up Monday: Review of Pandemic Survival: It's Why You're Alive

Synopsis: 
The Black Death. Yellow Fever. Smallpox. History is full of gruesome pandemics, and surviving those pandemics has shaped our society and way of life. Every person today is alive because of an ancestor who survived--and surviving our current and future pandemics, like SARS, AIDS, bird flu or a new and unknown disease, will determine our future. Pandemic Survival presents in-depth information about past and current illnesses; the evolution of medicine and its pioneers; cures and treatments; strange rituals and superstitions; and what we're doing to prevent future pandemics. Full of delightfully gross details about symptoms and fascinating facts about bizarre superstitious behaviors, Pandemic Survival is sure to interest even the most squeamish of readers.


Review: 
I think this was a bit dry for the audience. The pictures were cute, but I expected a bit more "fun" given the cover and the middle grade target. The tone became monotonous/repetitive at times, and I found myself (an adult who is fascinated by epidemiology) drifting more than once. However, the information is (from what I know as a medical professional) accurate, thorough, and most sections were fairly concise. I would recommend this as school reading or for any young scientists.

Pandemic Survival: 3/5 stars
Cover: 4/5 stars

Note: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange of an honest review.