People, Parasites, and Plowshares: Learning From Our Body's Most Terrifying Invaders
A well-written and fascinating introduction to human parasitology from an intriguing, seldom-used perspective: how we can learn from parasites to achieve medical breakthroughs.(Rod Adam, University of Arizona)Dickson D. Despommier's approach is unique, easy going, and insightful. His book will appeal to both scientists and laypeople interested in science and medicine -- and will be of particular interest to travelers to exotic places.(Robert Gwadz, National Institutes of Health)There's a lot to learn from a tapeworm. Parasites have evolved stunningly successful strategies for thriving in our bodies for millions of years. Drawing on his long career as a parasitologist, Dickson D. Despommier explores the lessons we can gain from our passengers, creating a fascinating tour of the parasitic world.(Carl Zimmer, author ofA Planet of VirusesandParasite Rex)[An] illuminating book.... Despommier is an excellent popularizer, lacing his accounts of our invaders' ingenuity with history and anecdotes that underscore how grateful a modern society should be for clean drinking water and sanitary facilities.(Kirkus Reviews)Reading this book may make your skin crawl.... The facts are horrifying and fascinating.... As Despommier argues, these body snatchers deserve respect.(Marissa FessendenScientific American)[People, Parasites, and Plowshares] chronicles the discovery -- and destructive treachery -- of parasites as well as the promise they offer modern medicine in curing a number of diseases.(Washington Post)[People, Parasites, and Plowshares] beautifully balances history and pathology.(Dave LeeDiscover)A rich, fulsome feast. It is also a gift to tropical medicine.(American Journal of Tropical Medicine1900-01-00)An informative and entertaining view of parasitic life cycle and resulting human diseases.(CHOICE1900-01-00)Despommier's writing is precise, clear, and up to date.... I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in parasitology.(Scott L. GardnerBioScience1900-01-00)