Book details
The Book of Dirt A smelly history of dirt, disease and human hygiene /anglais
Description
A deep dive into the history and science of dirt. Millions of people on Earth start their day the same way: we get out of bed, go to the loo and wash ourselves. But this hasn't always been the standard routine. Ancient Greeks and Romans were happy to splash about in public baths, but by the time the plague struck 14th-century Europe, many people believed that water spread diseases. It was not until the 18th century that Louis Pasteur proved that dangerous germs actually lurk in dirt. Even when hygienic habits began to be taught in schools, lessons were limited to washing faces and hands, because those were the parts that everyone could see. Dive deep into the history and science of dirt, discovering how people around the world (and out in space!) keep themselves and their surroundings free from filth, how our ideas of what's clean and what's not have changed and developed over the centuries, and why a little dirt can sometimes be a good thing...
Age
8-12
Text complexity
beginner
Length
216 pages
Why to read
- Educational Insight: The book provides an in-depth exploration of the historical relationship between humans and hygiene, offering readers a chance to learn about the evolution of cleanliness practices and their impact on public health and disease prevention.
- Cultural Perspectives: 'The Book of Dirt' delves into various cultural attitudes towards dirt and hygiene, giving readers a broader understanding of how different societies have approached these issues throughout history.
- Engaging Narrative: Monika Utnik-Strugala presents the topic in an engaging and accessible manner, making it an enjoyable read for those interested in history, science, and sociology.
- Relevance to Modern Life: Understanding the history of dirt and hygiene can provide valuable context for current discussions about public health, sanitation, and our daily habits, making the book relevant to contemporary readers who are interested in these ongoing issues.