Today's Read Contributor John Green’s latest nonfiction book, Everything Is Tuberculosis: The History and Persistence of Our Deadliest Infection, hit shelves on March 18, 2025, marking the author’s return to the world of nonfiction after his previous success with The Anthropocene Reviewed. Published by Crash Course Books, this new work explores the history of tuberculosis (TB), a disease that continues to affect millions worldwide.
In his book, Green doesn’t just focus on the scientific or medical aspects of tuberculosis. Instead, he weaves the tale of a fictional young patient named Henry into the broader context of TB’s long-standing impact on humanity. Green presents TB as more than a bacterial infection; it’s an outcome of centuries of human actions and choices, ranging from the rapid urbanization of societies to global inequalities in healthcare access. The story of Henry becomes a poignant way to highlight these themes, offering readers a relatable and compelling narrative while they learn about the history and persistence of the disease.
One of the unique elements of Everything Is Tuberculosis is how Green integrates educational content with storytelling. By blending personal narrative with deep dives into the historical, social, and political factors that have enabled tuberculosis to thrive for so long, Green provides a multifaceted examination of the disease. He takes readers through different historical moments, from the 19th century when tuberculosis was romanticized in literature, to the present day where it still poses a threat despite medical advancements.
The book’s release was met with immediate critical acclaim, earning a spot on The New York Times Best Seller list within the first week of its publication. Its success is being attributed not only to Green’s distinct storytelling style but also to the relevancy of the topic. Tuberculosis, though often forgotten in many parts of the world, remains one of the deadliest infections globally, particularly in developing nations. Green’s book has sparked conversations about the importance of addressing global health disparities and the continued research needed to combat TB.
Everything Is Tuberculosis isn’t just a historical exploration; it’s a call to action. Green urges readers to consider how decisions made today, whether in terms of public health policy or international aid, will shape the future of diseases like tuberculosis. By drawing connections between past mistakes and current issues, the book pushes for a reevaluation of how we view diseases that have long been stigmatized or overlooked. In doing so, Green offers readers not only a historical perspective but also a vision for a future where tuberculosis might finally be eradicated.
The combination of educational content and personal narrative, paired with Green’s signature thoughtful insights, makes Everything Is Tuberculosis a standout work that is both informative and emotionally resonant. This new book is likely to become a key resource in classrooms and libraries, while also sparking meaningful discussions about global health in the public sphere.
