Today's Read Contributor John Green, the bestselling author renowned for his novel The Fault in Our Stars, has ventured into the world of nonfiction with his latest book, Everything Is Tuberculosis: The History and Persistence of Our Deadliest Infection. Released on March 18, 2025, the book has been met with widespread acclaim for its thorough exploration of tuberculosis (TB), a disease that has continued to affect millions of people worldwide, despite its status as an “ancient” affliction.
John Green’s Transition from Fiction to Nonfiction
Green’s transition from fiction to nonfiction has been both seamless and impactful, as his personal storytelling style blends effortlessly with his in-depth research. Everything Is Tuberculosis aims to illuminate the ongoing relevance of TB and the social, political, and economic factors that have allowed it to remain one of the world’s most lethal infections. Green’s personal experience working with organizations like Partners In Health in Sierra Leone provides the backdrop for many of the personal accounts interwoven throughout the book, making the subject matter more immediate and emotionally resonant for readers.
The Global Impact of Tuberculosis
In his exploration of TB, Green goes beyond mere statistics, diving deep into the lived experiences of those affected by the disease. He offers insights into how TB disproportionately impacts vulnerable populations, including those in low-income communities and regions with limited access to healthcare. Throughout the book, Green makes a compelling argument for the need to address TB not just as a medical issue, but as a human rights issue.
One of the book’s central themes is the systemic inequalities that exacerbate the spread of TB. Green highlights how social determinants like poverty, lack of education, and insufficient healthcare infrastructure allow the disease to thrive. By focusing on both the historical roots of TB and its contemporary struggles, Green provides readers with a multifaceted view of the disease’s persistence in the modern world.
A Blend of Storytelling and Rigorous Research
Critics have praised Green’s ability to balance storytelling with scientific inquiry. His narrative style has been described as accessible, offering a personal touch while maintaining the integrity of the complex medical and social topics he addresses. As a result, Everything Is Tuberculosis has made a significant impact not only in the literary world but also in the public health conversation.
Since its release, the book has topped multiple bestseller lists, sparking widespread discussions about global health equity. Green’s ability to connect with readers has once again proven effective, bringing attention to a health crisis that, despite its global impact, often takes a backseat in media and public discourse. TB, which the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates still infects about 10 million people each year, is a reminder that public health challenges are ongoing and multifaceted.
A Call to Action for Global Health
In response to the book’s success, Green has announced plans to partner with global health organizations, such as the Global Fund and Doctors Without Borders, to further raise awareness and fund TB research and treatment. This collaboration represents a larger trend in which authors and creatives are leveraging their platforms to advocate for health-related causes.
With Everything Is Tuberculosis, John Green has demonstrated that his talents extend beyond young adult fiction into the realm of nonfiction advocacy, using his voice to educate and inspire change on a global scale.
