The Mosquito War

By V.A. MacAlister

Book Overview

No Americans cared about malaria. Why should they? They didn't get it. Americans didn't know or care about the West Nile virus before it showed up in America--but a dozen fatalities on good old American soil, and they were all but mobilizing the Air Force to spray for mosquitoes. Americans would not care about malaria until their own children woke screaming with the fever, until their own people started dying. Americans did not care about anything until it was a threat to themselves and their way of life. Well then . . . a threat could be arranged. Crooked pharmaceutical companies, a CIA plot gone horribly awry, a terrorist weapon that comes in a very small package, and a grief-stricken scientist determined to make America pay for its indifference to the suffering in Third World countries all combine to create the fast-paced thriller that is "The Mosquito War."

• Format: Mass Market Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0812549139
• ISBN13: 9780812549133
• Release Date: September 2004
• Publisher: Tor Books
• Length: 368 Pages
• Weight: 0.95 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.0" x 4.2" x 6.8"

Customer Reviews

Enjoyable Read for a Biology Major

Having read only semi-interesting research papers and textbooks for the past 6 years, it was quite a relief to stumble onto this book. The complicated process of reproduction and growth of the Plasmodium genus is expertly explained to not only help the science uninclined understand what was going on, but added a good deal of suspense and imagery for those who do understand it. The other comments will give you a good synopsis of the book; the storyline gripped me at 10pm when I started reading until 5am when I closed the book. Definitely recommend.

Mosquito War

This book is well written, well researched, has plenty of twists and turns, is fast moving, and an excellent mystery novel. It is obvious that the author has first hand experience with Marine life, research work, and with infectious diseases. It is definitely a great summer reading book.

Scary, realistic, original . . .

The Mosquito War is a remarkable book, with beautifully drawn characters who are far more real than many who show up in today's thrillers. It's also a gripping tale that zips along, becoming more compelling with each chapter. Of course it's loaded with the kind of technical details that make its premise completely plausible -- but they're folded in so well that instead of slowing down the action they merely add another layer. It may have been meant to be escapist fiction, but the depth and timeliness leave a lasting impression. And while it's impossible to read this and not be troubled by the danger of biological attacks, most readers will still enjoy the story for its adventurous suspense, colorful writing and heartfelt terror that pushes its characters toward a stunning, unforgettable conclusion!

Carry your OFF with you.

V.A. MacAlister not only created characters with depth and emotions, what was once irritating nusances are now very frightening villians. The Mosquito War is a story that is right now or could be next week. The references to landmarks and areas around Washington, D.C. took me "home", the West Nile Virus is just arriving in Texas what more can I expect Connor Gale or Zee Aspen at my front door? As a United States citizen, I often take for granted the advantages and comforts we have available such as excellent medical care. Read this book, I couldn't put it down. Fast paced, well thought out and thought provoking... where did I put that can of OFF?

Corporate Amorality Begets Plague in DC

An enticing amalgam of political elements, coupled with stylish dialog results in a novel brimming with provocative suspense. The ethical questions triggered by the burgeoning brave new world of biotechnology are thoroughly elucidated in a manner suitable for either a consuming beach read or sleepy autumn weekend. Who is this V.A. MacAlister?