"Fever 1793" by Laurie Halse Anderson

This book is a gripping historical novel that transports readers to Philadelphia during the devastating yellow fever epidemic of 1793. The story follows 14-year-old Mattie Cook, who lives with her widowed mother and grandfather above their family-run coffeehouse. As the fever spreads and panic grips the city, Mattie must navigate the horrors of the epidemic, facing loss, fear, and uncertainty. Her journey is one of survival, resilience, and growth as she discovers inner strength and learns to cope with the challenges of a rapidly changing world. This powerful narrative captures the human spirit's capacity to endure in the face of unimaginable adversity.

Reading and Maturity Level

• Reading Level: Grades 5-8 (Ages 10-14)

• Maturity Level: The book contains themes of illness, death, and survival during a historical epidemic. It is suitable for middle school readers, with mature themes that may require guided discussions.

Classroom Inclusion

"Fever 1793" offers a historical perspective on a significant event in American history, providing students with an understanding of the social and medical challenges of the 18th century. The novel features a diverse cast of characters, including free African Americans who played crucial roles in caring for the sick and maintaining the city during the epidemic. This inclusion of different racial and social backgrounds provides a more comprehensive view of history and highlights the contributions of marginalized groups.

The novel serves as an excellent resource for exploring the history of early America, public health, and the impact of epidemics on society. Teachers can use it to discuss the historical context of the yellow fever epidemic, the state of medical knowledge and practices at the time, and the societal reactions to widespread disease. Themes of resilience, community, and the human response to crisis can lead to rich classroom discussions and critical thinking about both historical and c ontemporary issues.

• Empathy Building: Encourages students to empathize with individuals who lived through historical epidemics and to understand the emotional and physical toll of such events.

• Critical Thinking: Promotes discussions about historical medical practices, the role of community during crises, and the parallels between past and present public health challenges.

• Cultural Awareness: Highlights the contributions of African Americans during the epidemic, fostering an inclusive understanding of American history.

• Literary Merit: Offers opportunities for analyzing character development, historical setting, and the use of narrative to convey complex themes of survival and resilience.