Red Madness

Reach for this book when your child starts asking 'why' about how the world works, or when they show a budding interest in medicine and true crime. This gripping narrative follows the medical mystery of pellagra, a terrifying disease that ravaged the American South in the early 1900s. It explores themes of scientific persistence, social justice, and the courage required to challenge the status quo. While the descriptions of the disease's physical effects are frank, it serves as a powerful testament to the impact of nutrition and the importance of advocating for the vulnerable. It is a sophisticated choice for middle schoolers who enjoy uncovering hidden histories.