This week, we feature a fascinating history of a mysterious English Renaissance disease and an exciting memoir of a quest for the lost ship Endurance.
History
‘The Sweating Sickness Epidemic: Henry VIII’s Great Fear’
By Stephen Porter
Between 1485 and 1551, a series of epidemics hit England. The disease was called the sweating sickness. Then it disappeared, never to return. Even today, doctors are uncertain of what microbe caused it. This book tells that story. It traces its march across England, shows its effect on English life, and follows modern scientific studies of what caused the disease and why it disappeared. A study of the effect of disease on society, it shows medicine’s limits in the 16th century and today.
Pen and Sword History, 2023, 160 pages
Fiction
‘Uhtred’s Feast: Inside the World of the Last Kingdom’
By Bernard Cornwell and Susan Pollak
Prolific writer of historical fiction Bernard Cornwell gives us a last salute to his Saxon warrior, Uhtred of Bebbanburg, in this upcoming collection of stories. But this is more than a work of fiction. Writer Suzanne Pollock adds her passion for Anglo-Saxon cookery with lots of early medieval recipes, from “Rabbit Braised in Ale” to “Barley Flatbread.” Not only do fans of the “Last Kingdom” series get another visit with Uhtred, but the adventurous get to share some meals with him as well.
Harper, 2023, 288 pages
Historical Fiction
‘Lockett and the Devil’s Path’
By T.J. Johnston
It’s March 1863 when the drama unfolds in Tennessee. Civil War buffs will appreciate the latest volume in the James Lockett series. Thrilling military encounters, espionage, and an ongoing love story of star-crossed lovers is written with folksy charm against a background of accurate history. Perhaps not as well known, the Tullahoma Campaign pitted Union Gen. William Rosecrans against Confederate Gen. Braxton Bragg in a conflict challenged by difficult terrain. Capt. Lockett plays a major role.
Vivus Historical Press, 2023, 373 pages
Exploration
‘The Ship Beneath the Ice: The Discovery of Shackleton’s Endurance’
By Mensun Bound
More than a century ago, the Endurance sank to the bottom of the Weddell Sea, leaving Ernest Shackleton and 27 others standing atop the icy landscape of Antarctica. How the entire crew survived is one of history’s greatest survival stories. Using the latest technology, marine archaeologist Mensun Bound collaborated with some of the brightest minds in oceanography and exploration to conduct two expeditions in an attempt to locate the Endurance. It’s an incredible bookend to the Shackleton story.
Mariner Books, 2023, 416 pages
Classics
‘The Memoirs of Col. John S. Mosby’
By John S. Mosby
This Civil War classic offers insight into the mind, battlefield tactics, and daring spirit of one of the United States’ greatest partisan leaders, nicknamed “the Gray Ghost.” One of the Confederacy’s most famous soldiers, Mosby was a colorful commander of cavalry who, after the war, accepted Reconstruction, worked for the federal government, and supported President Grant. His account of his military exploits is clear, blunt, and precise and often delivered with a sly sense of humor sure to bring a smile.
Barnes Review, 2013, 262 pages
For Kids
‘Pinocchio’
By Carlo Collodi
Dive into the original “Pinocchio,” as Carlo Collodi explores the consequences of selfishness, abdicating responsibility, and dishonesty, among other themes. The familiar tale features the kindly woodcarver Gepetto, who creates a puppet that dreams of becoming a real boy. A bit dark, the deeply symbolic, classic work of literature is worth knowing.
Union Square Kids, 2014, 184 pages
