An American Plague: The True and Terrifying Story of the Yellow Fever Epidemic of 1793

by Jim Murphy (Clarion Books/Houghton Mifflin Company)

The book cover of "An American Plague: The True and Terrifying Story of the Yellow Fever Epidemic of 1793" features a vignette of a sick man in bed with his eyes closed, while a woman sits in a chair by his bedside, with her hands folded on the comforter, looking very worried. The Robert F. Sibert Informational Book Medal Award Seal has been affixed on the right, below the title. The Newberry Honor Award Seal and the National Book Award Finalist Seal have been affixed along the lower left side of the book.

About

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Murphy draws material from primary sources, such as private diaries, newspapers and books, to give insight into political, social and cultural challenges of the yellow fever epidemic. The compelling narrative pulls readers into the crisis, illuminates the community's responses and shows the best and worst of humanity.



"A consummate craftsman, Murphy vividly recreates the fear and panic that swept through Philadelphia in 1793," said Award Committee Chair Cathryn M. Mercier. "Carefully designed and documented, this book models the best in informational books for young people."

Awards Won

Title Year
Sibert Seal Robert F. Sibert Informational Book Medal

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The Sibert Award honors the most distinguished informational book published in English in the preceding year for its significant contribution to children’s literature.
 2004 - Winner(s)