Everything Is Tuberculosis: The History and Persistence of Our Deadliest Infection

An enlightening exploration of the history and present-day reality of tuberculosis around the world. This narrative nonfiction title follows the journey of one TB patient, Henry, and his life and treatment in Sierra Leone while simultaneously shedding light on the battle against tuberculosis in impoverished countries. While tuberculosis is considered history to many, Green shares the alarming fact that due to many factors beyond the control of sufferers, over a million people die each year because they don’t have access to the best possible treatments and diagnostic testing. Green skillfully sparks readers’ curiosity within the first pages by discussing the number of deaths TB has caused in recent years and explains, “We know how to live in a world without tuberculosis. But we choose not to live in that world.” Readers will be shocked to hear the impact TB still has around the world when in places like the U.S., most people think tuberculosis is a part of the past. Henry’s story is hopeful and heartbreaking; readers will be rooting for him and his family the whole way through. The author includes much about his relationship with Henry, but also of his own life experiences with medications, OCD, and his treatment of orbital cellulitis which contributes helpful comparisons to the narrative. While medical nonfiction titles can be difficult for the average reader, Green explains ideas and terminology simply to ensure comprehension for readers.