Ghost Map, The
Johnson, StevenLondon, 1854. A contaminated water supply, an outbreak of cholera, two determined gentlemen and the birth of epidemiology. From opposite sides of the contagious disease debate, Doctor John Snow and the Reverend Henry Whitehead eventually worked together to successfully pinpoint the source of the outbreak, forever changing the way the world would understand the spread of disease.
Combining great storytelling with dishing the dirt on the nature of epidemics and the implications for our modern cities, this is a compelling and accessible read.
Comments from Groups
This was interesting, and encouraged good discussion especially in relation to current epidemics ( bird flu, swine flu, Ebola etc). Fascinating insights into the culture, beliefs and societal structure of Victorian England. Christchurch 312 This book was a surprise. Who would expect a book about a cholera epidemic, bacteria and the disposal of sewage to be fascinating, but it was, due primarily to the author's superb story-telling ability. ' The Ghost Map' was popular with everyone, and a great discussion book. Christchurch 299 We were all enthralled - we found it a most interesting and informative book. Hamilton 024 I think the group was evenly divided - the 'science and research buffs' absolutely LOVED it and were very satisfied that the two opposing men came to the eventual conclusion, which meant the end of the cholera outbreak. The other members felt it was too much like a textbook - and a very wordy one at that. However, the discussion was great and we are all a lot wiser as a result. Gore 001 Much enjoyed by all - an informative and enlightening read. Some parts were highly scientific, but it was very interesting nonetheless. Timaru 016 Very interesting - like a detective story. Some fascinating material. Increased my understanding of waste disposal etc. Urbanisation concept interesting. Taupo 004 We thoroughly enjoyed this book. Beautifully written, wonderfully complex and full of fascinating details. Highly recommended. Christchurch 005
Pages
299
299
Year
2006
2006
Reviews
21-09-2023
Our group felt that 'The Ghost Map' covered a very interesting topic and was well-researched. The author described vividly the living conditions of the poor in mid-Victorian London. Some of us felt that his writing was padded out at times and we questioned the relevancy and "readability"of the final chapter.
03-10-2022
We loved this book- brilliant and fascinating scientific detective story. Also prophetic insight of a future pandemic!
22-04-2022
Most of our group did not finish the book. They found it interesting but very repetitive.
07-11-2021
A moderate number of members of our group are trained in science and medical areas, so found this a wonderfully illuminating book (even those into detective stories were mesmerised) and very clearly written. The last chapter, which seemed more like an author's lecture on a favourite subject, and, therefore, superfluous, felt like an unfortunate addition, but did not majorly detract from a great read. Maybe even more important in our current COVID-19 pandemic world!
14-10-2021
Reading about the water and sewerage conditions in London which led to the cholera epidemic in 1854 was certainly an eye-opener! The whole study was so interesting and relevant to our present time - especially the last chapter where he speaks of over-crowded cities and other threats, with a degree of hope. His explanation of viruses and how they can be controlled by vaccinations was very pertinent, and led, with the help of our two ex-science teachers, to probably one of the best discussions we've ever had!
10-09-2021
Great research. Hard to get into but worthwhile overall. Generated a good discussion.
10-09-2021
Most of us enjoyed this book. A fascinating insight into Victorian London - the parts you don't see in the period dramas om TV! We admired John Snow and Henry Whitehead for their work.
08-09-2021
Our group found this book fascinating.
08-09-2021
Most liked the descriptions of life in London in the 1850s, and some loved the 'science' of working out how cholera is spread.
08-09-2021
An interesting read in places - in view of the current pandemic situation.
08-09-2021
Everyone enjoyed this book. Very topical at the moment.
08-09-2021
We were fascinated to read this while we are in a pandemic. We were struck by how hard it was for people to believe the water-born theory, and how this dovetails with current 'fake news'. A good read overall.
08-09-2021
Fascinating and well-written, but could have told the story more succinctly.
20-10-2020
Fascinating historical account of Victorian England. Amazing amount of research put in by the author. very well-written if slightly repetitive in places. Really horrific description of the mastectomy/operations with no pain relief!! So interesting how society puts faith in authoritative bodies.
20-10-2020
A fascinating book - we had a marvellously diverse discussion! (Mention of septic tanks and the "mushrooms" in the lawns of some Chch suburban gardens!) And interestingly, we never segued into any talk of Covid-19! One epidemic/pandemic at a time perhaps.
11-05-2020
An interesting, well researched story presented in a very readable format. Very topical too!