Demon Under the Microscope, The

Hager, Thomas

  5 Reviews

Antibiotics, should we need them, are just a prescription away. But this has not always been the case; not until the 1930s did the first antibiotic make its way onto the world stage, ushering in the era of modern medicine. Chronicling the history and development of sulfa (the miracle drug in question) and the attendant fledgling pharmaceutical industry, this book presents a riveting story of endeavour and the physicians and scientists involved in its discovery.

Both entertaining and informative, this story while presenting the historical events that revolutionised the management of infection also considers the contemporary challenge of antibiotic resistance. [Small font]

Comments from Groups

We all enjoyed delving into the science of medical research, the scientists and the companies involved in it. We were not so keen on the small grey font, but it was a good read. Wellington 058

Unanimous appreciation of this book. All found it very absorbing and accessible, and once again we are informed about something we should know. The message was clear in the last paragraph: "The problem now is not staying alive, but keeping the earth alive as we overrun it." Much discussion. Coromandel 002

Highly recommended by the group, who found it an engrossing read. It provoked a lively discussion. A great book to finish our year. Greytown 001

Read by most, and we learnt a lot. Not for the faint hearted. Christchurch 099

Most members enjoyed the book and found the subject very interesting. Discussion was lively. Doubtless Bay 001

The book was well received by the group. This is not the kind of book that some would have chosen to read, but they were pleasantly surprised with how interesting it was. Dunedin 071

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