Title: Spillover: Animal Infections and the Next Human Pandemic
Author: David Quammen
First published September 24, 2012
587 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780393066807 (ISBN10: 0393066800)
Rating: 4.41
Overview
In the aftermath of the Empire’s fall, the newly formed Republic faces a dire threat from Grand Admiral Thrawn. Using an advanced technology recovered from the Emperor’s fortress, Thrawn unleashes an army of clone soldiers that pushes the Rebels to their limits.
Facing overwhelming odds, Han and Chewbacca turn to the galaxy’s smugglers for aid in a last-ditch effort to thwart the Empire. Meanwhile, Leia prepares for the birth of her Jedi twins, determined to keep the Alliance together.
As Thrawn’s forces close in, Luke Skywalker leads a small team to infiltrate the Empire’s stronghold and destroy his cloning machines. But a new danger emerges in the form of the Dark Jedi C’baoth, who seeks to destroy Luke once and for all.
With the fate of the Republic hanging in the balance, the heroes must risk everything to save the galaxy. This special edition includes a primer on the expanded universe and excerpts from the most popular books of the last thirty years.
About the Author
Meet David Quammen, a renowned writer who has earned accolades for his exceptional work in the fields of science, nature, and travel writing. His writing has been featured in various publications, including National Geographic, Harper’s, Rolling Stone, and The New York Times Book Review.
In addition to non-fiction, Quammen has also dabbled in fiction writing. For fifteen years, he wrote a column titled “Natural Acts” for Outside magazine.
Currently, he calls Bozeman, Montana his home.
Editoral Review
David Quammen’s Spillover: Animal Infections and the Next Human Pandemic is a compelling non-fiction work that explores the origins and potential impacts of infectious diseases that spread from animals to humans. Quammen is an award-winning science writer and author of several books, including The Song of the Dodo and The Reluctant Mr. Darwin.
Spillover is organised into three main sections, each of which focuses on a different pathogen and its transmission from animals to humans. Quammen uses detailed case studies to explain how viruses and other pathogens can cross the species barrier and cause devastating outbreaks, such as the Ebola and SARS epidemics.
He provides a wealth of information on the biology and behaviour of these infectious agents, as well as the factors that contribute to their emergence and geographic spread. The book is written in a thoroughly researched and accessible style that makes it easy for readers to understand complex scientific concepts without sacrificing accuracy or depth.
Quammen’s use of personal anecdotes and colourful descriptions bring the stories to life, making the book both informative and engaging. The author’s passion for the subject is evident on every page, and he handles sensitive topics with compassion and respect for the people and animals affected.
One of the greatest strengths of Spillover is the way it raises awareness of the risks associated with zoonotic diseases and the need for proactive measures to prevent future outbreaks. Quammen argues that the increasing encroachment of humans into wild habitats, coupled with global travel and trade, makes it more likely that we’ll see new and deadly diseases emerge in the coming years.
This message is especially relevant in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which has underscored the need for greater preparedness and cooperation at the global level. However, the book is not without its flaws.
Some readers may find the level of detail overwhelming, especially in the sections that describe the technical aspects of the pathogens and the scientific research that has been conducted on them. In addition, the book is primarily focused on infectious diseases that originate in animals, and doesn’t spend as much time discussing strategies for controlling human-to-human transmission.
Despite these limitations, Spillover is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of biology, ecology, and public health. Quammen’s expert storytelling, meticulous research, and thought-provoking insights make this a book that will stick with readers long after they’ve finished it.
Whether you’re a scientist, a healthcare professional, or simply a curious citizen, Spillover is a book that deserves a spot on your reading list. Rating: 4.5/5
Recommended for: anyone interested in infectious diseases, public health, or the impact of humans on wildlife and the environment.
