Fever 1793

written by Laurie Halse Anderson
Young Adult (ages 12 and up)

In August 1793, yellow fever strikes the city of Philadelphia, changing it from the center of democracy and new beginnings to a barren wasteland. Fourteen year old Mattie Cook has big plans and ambitions far beyond what her Mother dreams for her. Her priority is turning Cook's Coffeehouse, the family business, into the finest establishment in Philadelphia. However, news from the docks is of fever, and the deadly disease begins to take the lives of Philadelphians and fill the cemeteries with bodies. It begins to spread closer and closer to Mattie and the family and livelihood that she holds so dear. Mattie is a strong young woman, showing great courage, strength, and perseverance as she lives a nightmare and tries to save what she holds so dear.

Well researched and written, this historical novel is riveting and powerful. Fever 1793 was selected as an ABA Pick of the Lists title.