An American Plague

Murphy, Jim. 2003. AN AMERICAN PLAGUE. New York, NY: Clarion Books.
ISBN 0395776082

*Summary

In 1793, yellow fever engulfs Philadelphia, overtaking every aspect of life in the city and many aspects of life in our country. Author Jim Murphy explains the suffering and triumphs of people who experienced the deadly epidemic. His account includes journal excerpts, maps, photographs, and drawings which all help to tell the dramatic tale of life in the city during the yellow fever epidemic. Finally, he details the science behind the retreat of yellow fever and explains why epidemics are still a threat today.

*Critical Analysis

Murphy’s award-winning book is well-documented as evidenced by the twelve pages of sources included at the end of the book. The books listed are divided into different categories , and some sources include personal comments from Murphy. Such a list is invaluable to a reader who is interested in learning more about yellow fever. Murphy takes great care in making certain readers get a clear picture of the epidemic and its impact. For example, some drawings are included which portray similar outbreaks in other places, but Murphy points out that the drawings can give readers insight although they are not a portrayal of Philadelphia. Similarly, the account points out some of the hypocrisies of the time, such as the active help of the Free African Society despite the mistreatment of African Americans at the time.

The book is organized into eleven chapters and includes a table of contents, an index, and illustration notes. These resources make the book accessible and encourage browsing. The chapters, which flow sequentially and follow the spread of yellow fever spreads through the city, begin with a statement from a periodical or person of the time. Finally, the last chapter serves as an explanation of the eventual understanding of the epidemic and as a warning of the threat of such an occurrence again. This clear, simple organization adds to the appeal and readability of the book.

Similar to the organization, the design of the book serves readers well. From the beginning, the simple cover with the words “the True and Terrifying Story” sparks curiosity. Next, the placement of relevant photos, drawings, and maps along with the text makes the book move along quickly. Each graphic compliments the story and creates more interest. For example, a drawing of a quarantine hospital being torched by citizen due to fears regarding yellow fever adds to the drama of the story and informs the readers as well by providing a visual representation. Likewise, the large margins and easily readable font make this lengthy novel a bit more approachable for readers.

Murphy’s style of writing is interesting and the details he includes are telling. From the first page of the book his precise description catches the attention of readers. "Dead fish and gooey vegetables matter were exposed and rotted, while swarms of insects droned in the heavy, humid air." The inclusion of several people's experiences throughout the account puts a face on the epidemic and makes the story more interesting. Additionally, the last chapter, "A Modern-Day Time Bomb" makes the events of 1793 more relevant as readers learn of the threats people still face in regard to the spread of disease by insects. Murphy does an excellent job protraying the situation from many different perspecitives; African Americans, high profile politicians, head strong doctors, and regular townspeople who found themselves as city leaders. The combination of Murphy's style, research, and an intriguing story makes for a great book.

*Personal Response

AN AMERICAN PLAGUE is an interesting, informative read. Although much of the subject matter is tragic, I enjoyed learning about the lives of people in 18th century America. Because the book addresses racial prejudices, classism, and American politics, it truly provides a history lesson. I also liked following the lives of particular people before, during, and after the spread of yellow fever. I hope to share this with some of the older students at my school and introduce them to more Jim Murphy books.

*Review Excerpts

“With his customary care, Murphy culls from a number of historical records the story of the yellow fever epidemic that swept Philadelphia in 1793, skillfully drawing out from these sources the fear and drama of the time and making them immediate to modern readers.”
Horn Book

“A mesmerizing, macabre account that will make readers happy they live in the 21st century.”
Kirkus *Starred Review*

*Connections

-Research present day methods for preventing an epidemic.
-Compare and contrast aspects of life in 1793 Philadelphia with life in present day America (socially, scientifically, politically, etc.).
-Choose a better known politician or doctor as a subject for further research.
-Compare the yellow fever outbreak in Philadelphia to other outbreaks in other cities of the time.