Fever 1793
by Laurie Halse Anderson
252 pages, Paperback
Publisher: Aladdin
Release Date: September 1, 2000
My Rating: ★★★★☆
Book Summary
It’s late summer 1793, and the streets of Philadelphia are abuzz with mosquitoes and rumors of fever. Down near the docks, many have taken ill, and the fatalities are mounting. Now they include Polly, the serving girl at the Cook Coffeehouse. But fourteen-year-old Mattie Cook doesn’t get a moment to mourn the passing of her childhood playmate. New customers have overrun her family’s coffee shop, located far from the mosquito-infested river, and Mattie’s concerns of fever are all but overshadowed by dreams of growing her family’s small business into a thriving enterprise. But when the fever begins to strike closer to home, Mattie’s struggle to build a new life must give way to a new fight—the fight to stay alive.
— from Goodreads
Book Review
“Fever 1793” by Laurie Halse Anderson is a compelling and historically rich young adult novel that vividly depicts the devastating impact of the yellow fever epidemic in Philadelphia. With its engaging storytelling, memorable characters, and meticulous attention to historical detail, this book offers a thought-provoking and immersive reading experience.
Set against the backdrop of the epidemic that swept through Philadelphia in 1793, the story follows 14-year-old Mattie Cook as she navigates the chaos and uncertainty the fever brings. As the city succumbs to illness and death, Mattie’s world is turned upside down, and she must summon strength and resilience to survive and find hope amidst the devastation.
The book delves into themes of survival, loss, and the power of community. Anderson portrays the breakdown of social order and the emergence of newfound alliances in the face of a common threat. Through Mattie’s experiences and relationships, readers witness the resilience and resourcefulness of individuals as they band together to support one another during this crisis.
“Fever 1793” is a gripping and historically immersive young adult novel that shines a light on a lesser-known period of American history. Laurie Halse Anderson’s meticulous research, engaging writing, and compelling characters make this a captivating read. Despite some pacing concerns and occasional underdeveloped characters, the book successfully brings the yellow fever epidemic to life, immersing readers in a world of hardship, resilience, and the enduring power of hope. “Fever 1793” is a recommended read for both young adult and historical fiction enthusiasts, offering a poignant exploration of human strength in the face of a devastating crisis.
