Today's Read Contributor A Bestselling Debut in Nonfiction
John Green, acclaimed author of The Fault in Our Stars and other popular novels, has turned his attention to nonfiction with his new release, Everything Is Tuberculosis: The History and Persistence of Our Deadliest Infection. Released on March 18, 2025, the book has quickly made its mark, landing at the top of the New York Times bestseller list in the nonfiction category. The book is a unique blend of historical analysis and personal storytelling that dives into one of the world’s oldest and most deadly diseases—tuberculosis (TB).
Green, known for his deeply human storytelling in fiction, applies the same approach to nonfiction in this book. He blends detailed historical accounts with personal anecdotes, exploring how TB has shaped history, society, and public health policy. TB, which once seemed to be a disease relegated to history, is still a global health issue, infecting millions of people annually, especially in less-developed regions.
Understanding Tuberculosis Through History and Personal Connection
In Everything Is Tuberculosis, Green not only discusses the disease’s long and storied history but also highlights its continuing impact on public health today. Tuberculosis, although treatable, remains a persistent threat in many parts of the world, largely due to issues like poverty, healthcare access, and social inequality. Green’s approach humanizes the disease by focusing on real-life stories, notably that of Henry, a TB patient Green met in Sierra Leone in 2019. Through Henry’s experiences, Green weaves a compelling narrative that makes the science and history of TB more relatable to readers.
This personal connection is a key strength of the book. Green’s ability to draw readers in with Henry’s story allows him to explore the broader implications of TB on global health in a way that feels immediate and personal. The book underscores how human connections and healthcare disparities influence the spread of infectious diseases, and it challenges readers to think about how these issues can be addressed in the modern world.
The Relevance of TB in Today’s Global Health Landscape
The timing of Everything Is Tuberculosis could not be more relevant. The global COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the vulnerabilities of health systems around the world, with many health experts noting that the lessons learned from COVID-19 are directly applicable to tackling other infectious diseases like TB. Despite the availability of antibiotics and vaccines, TB continues to be a leading cause of death in many developing nations, due in part to the rise of drug-resistant strains and lack of access to effective healthcare.
Green’s book has sparked important conversations about how the world can respond to these persistent health threats. TB’s continuing prevalence underscores the need for global action to improve healthcare infrastructure, especially in countries where the disease remains widespread. Everything Is Tuberculosis has, therefore, become more than just a historical account; it’s a call to action for individuals and governments alike to work toward eliminating preventable diseases and improving health equity worldwide.
Critical Reception and Impact on Public Health Awareness
Everything Is Tuberculosis has been widely praised for its thorough research, engaging writing style, and the depth of insight it provides into the history and present-day implications of tuberculosis. Green’s ability to present complex scientific topics in an accessible and engaging manner has made the book a standout in the nonfiction genre.
Public health experts have also recognized the value of the book in educating readers about the ongoing struggle against TB. It is being used in academic settings and public health initiatives to help raise awareness about tuberculosis as a public health priority.
John Green’s transition into nonfiction has proven successful, and with the global spotlight on health, his latest work is expected to spark further interest in tackling global health issues. For fans of Green’s writing and those interested in public health, Everything Is Tuberculosis serves as an eye-opening, personal, and educational read.
