Plot Summary

Terrible Typhoid Mary

Susan Campbell Bartoletti
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Terrible Typhoid Mary

Nonfiction | Biography | Middle Grade | Published in 2015

Book Brief

Susan Campbell Bartoletti

Terrible Typhoid Mary

Nonfiction | Biography | Middle Grade | Published in 2015
Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

New York City • Early 1900s

Publication Year

2015

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

9-14 years

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Super Short Summary

Terrible Typhoid Mary by Susan Campbell Bartoletti tells the true story of Mary Mallon, a healthy typhoid carrier in early 20th-century America, who inadvertently spread the disease while working as a cook. Public health officials forced her into seclusion, raising ethical questions about consent and civil rights. The narrative also delves into germ theories, gender disparities, and Mary’s struggle for justice.

Informative

Mysterious

Dark

Unnerving

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

4.0

3,934 ratings

62%

Loved it

32%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Terrible Typhoid Mary by Susan Campbell Bartoletti offers a meticulous account of Mary Mallon's life, blending scientific detail with human interest. Praised for thorough research and engaging writing, it effectively contextualizes the public health issues of the time. However, some readers found the portrayal of Mallon lacking depth and empathy.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Terrible Typhoid Mary?

Terrible Typhoid Mary by Susan Campbell Bartoletti appeals to readers aged 12-18 who are fascinated by historical medical mysteries and personal stories. Fans of Fever 1793 by Laurie Halse Anderson or The Family Romanov by Candace Fleming will find it similarly engaging.

4.0

3,934 ratings

62%

Loved it

32%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

New York City • Early 1900s

Publication Year

2015

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

9-14 years

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