Transworld pre-empts 'major' history of mankind and infectious disease

Transworld has pre-empted Pathogenesis, a "major new history of humankind" by Jonathan Kennedy, senior lecturer and director of the MSc global public health programmes at Barts and the London Medical School.

Alex Christofi, editorial director, bought UK and Commonwealth rights from Jessica Woollard at David Higham, for publication in spring 2022.

The synopsis reads: "This revelatory book shows how infectious disease has shaped humanity at every stage, from the bacteria and viruses that made human life possible and the success of homo sapiens over Neanderthals to the fall of empires, the rise of world religions and the birth of capitalism. In showing how fundamental they have been to the human story, Kennedy confronts our ongoing battle with infectious diseases globally, and how the choices we make now will dictate the course of future generations."

Christofi said: "I was intrigued by the pitch, compelled from the first page and, frankly, astonished by his argument. In ambition and scope it bears comparison with the very best popular science and history out there, and I think it is going to change the way that we think and talk about our place in the world."

Kennedy commented: "Pathogenesis is the result of 10 years of thinking, research and teaching. It aims to overthrow the dominant anthropocentric narrative of history and highlight the long-overlooked role of microbes in the development of our species. I am thrilled that Alex shares my enthusiasm for the book, and I am really looking forward to working with him and Transworld."