2023 Outstanding Academic Title - ChoiceA sweeping account of an important subject . . . Despite the depressing subject matter, this is a fascinating book of history and medical history, one that explores the social, economic and even sexual context of the human race and its fight against disease. - The IndependentFrøland’s copiously illustrated book, while steeped in compelling historical detail, is topical, touching on Covid-19, biological warfare and terrorism. As Frøland’s book (currently my book of the year by some margin) reminds us, it’s not a matter of if there will be another pandemic, but when. - Mark Greener, Fortean TimesIn Duel Without End, Stig S. Frøland explores the never-ending struggle between humans and microbes in a fascinating voyage of discovery, breakthroughs, and setbacks . . . The writing is superb, providing a wealth of detail but keeping a fast pace and a sense of humour – with pop culture references aplenty . . . But what truly sets this book apart is that it is written not by a historian, but by a professor of medicine who specialises in infectious diseases. It brings a lifetime of medical knowledge to a history book, and creates a middle way between art and science . . . It is informative, original, and refreshing, and the strongest argument for interdisciplinary working that I have seen. - Get HistoryThis highly readable and informative account will be of interest to both general readers and specialists fascinated by infectious diseases or the history of medicine. Highly recommended. - ChoiceA masterpiece on man’s battle with microbes . . . Every page gives a wealth of new information on the history of man from the perspective of infectious diseases. If you only buy a single book this year, buy this one. It will change your view on world history for ever. - Elin Ørjasæter, NettavisenAn excellent book on the large pandemics through history . . . demonstrates in a brilliant way how modern biomedical research has contributed to the battle against microbes. - Nils Chr. Stenseth, Professor of Ecology and Evolution, University of Oslo, and Albert Einstein Professor at the Chinese Academy of SciencesAn exciting, interesting and thorough survey of the battle with microbes throughout our entire history . . . [written in] elegant and accessible language which is comprehensible to everyone . . . a magnificent work. - Håkon Sjursen, Professor of Infectious Diseases, University of Bergen, Journal of the Norwegian Medical AssociationFrøland takes us on a fascinating journey through hundreds of thousands of years, from the dawn of humanity to the exploration of space. The book contains a wealth of interesting information and historical descriptions which makes it both easy to read and thrilling. It is difficult to put it down. - Bård Hauge, DagenThis book, driven by his interest in history and backed by his medical expertise, provides a good all-round introduction to the history of infectious diseases and the many ways in which we have sought to prevent and cure them . . . Frøland brings relevant expertise to the table thanks to his medical background . . . A level-headed, measured approach characterises much of the book, complemented by a healthy dose of myth-busting . . . As usual with publications from Reaktion Books, the book is richly illustrated . . . there is so much interesting historical material here that the book grips you in its own way. Overall then, Duel Without End is a broad, all-round introduction to the history of epidemics and pandemics that favours level-headed discussion over hyperbole. - Leon Vlieger, The Inquisitive Biologist
