The Left-Handed Librarian

I will admit – I am not often a nonfiction reader in my free time. I find it harder to focus on what I’m reading, even when I find the topic interesting. Although I love John Green and even count his 2021 collection of essays The Anthropocene Reviewed as one of my favorite books, I was wary about my ability to make it through an entire book dedicated to tuberculosis (TB).

Note to self – do not doubt John Green. Everything is Tuberculosis not only maintained my attention, it demanded it. Similar in his approach to The Anthropocene Reviewed, Green is unapologetically human in his writing, unafraid to air his own experiences and feelings. He balances the history and science of tuberculosis with the lives of real people, past and present, and in doing so offers a compelling argument for increased awareness and action in the fight against TB.

As someone with a background in Sociology, I was impressed with Green’s ability to explain the societal and institutional complexities of TB and its treatment (or lack thereof) globally. From the romanticization of TB as “an inherited disease of intellect” to the stigmatization and social ostracization that arose after the identification of M. tuberculosis, Green agilely moves through time and culture to demonstrate how marginalization and injustice have contributed to a curable illness remaining our deadliest infectious disease.

Everything is Tuberculosis is equally fascinating and horrifying. I am astonished at the pervasiveness of TB in our modern world, and even more so at the lack of awareness those of us living in rich nations are privileged to sustain. Tuberculosis is not a disease I am likely to encounter. If I did, and the infection actually became active (also unlikely due to my living conditions and access to proper nutrition), then I would be able to obtain a quick and reliable diagnosis followed by several treatment options that would essentially guarantee my survival. This is not the case for many, as historic factors and enduring injustices continue to beat down on impoverished communities worldwide. Measures taken and resources provided are largely based on cost-effectiveness with little regard for the human cost. Like Green, I am appalled that this is the world we are choosing to live in – a world where no one should die of TB, yet millions still do.

Everything is Tuberculosis is not without hope. Green highlights numerous successes and ongoing strategies to treat and prevent TB. The book in and of itself is a source of optimism as it increases recognition of TB to a wider audience. Green notes that his profession has gifted him a platform, a “megaphone” that he still wonders if he is utilizing correctly. He also discusses virtuous cycles – how one positive outcome can lead to another advancement. I think that this book is the continuation of the virtuous cycles detailed in chapter 22. Change begins with awareness, and Everything is Tuberculosis has already reached readers with little to no previous knowledge about TB.

Even if, like myself, you are not typically a nonfiction reader, I encourage you to pick up Everything is Tuberculosis. It is a brief but impactful read that provides a solid and well-researched introduction to a global tragedy that we all should be doing more to prevent.

More information about the book can be found here. Green has also shared a video lecture about TB on the Crash Course YouTube channel. Ready to join in the fight against TB? Learn how you can support the work of TB Fighters here.

Happy (and conscientious) reading!

Kayla