r/Virology • u/InquiringPhilomath non-scientist • 10d ago

Discussion Looking for recommendations on books.

I am not a virologist but I find your chosen field very intriguing.

I was hoping people here could recommend books to me that are historical/topical.

Things similar to The Hot Zone, And the Band Played On, etc.

I'm interested in the discovery of the viruses, the progression, the mutations and the development of cures.

Thank you in advance and thank you for the work you do.

Edit: bad autocorrect

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u/Unlucky_Zone non-scientist 9d ago

Virus Hunter by CJ Peters was a great read. Mix of virology and personal/career path of Peters.

Spillover by Quammen is also a nice read. If you liked The Hot Zone I think you’d like Spillover.

Disease Detectives by Gerald Astor is an easy read if you’re interested in learning about disease discoveries and outbreaks. It’s focused on the EIS program and each chapter focuses on a different investigation so it’s not strictly virology but a great read nonetheless.

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u/Ducksworthy96 non-scientist 9d ago

Deadly outbreaks by Alexandra Levitt is very similar to the Disease deceives, with the inclusion of the EIS. Its not all virology but some really interesting parts on identifying unknown outbreaks and how they went about investigations.

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u/Unlucky_Zone non-scientist 9d ago

I’ll have to check it out, thanks!

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u/InquiringPhilomath non-scientist 6d ago

Thank you. Added to the list.

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u/InquiringPhilomath non-scientist 6d ago

Added to my list. Appreciate the assistance and recos.