Panama Fever

An absolutely gripping account of the canal's conception and construction. . . . [An] exemplary history, vigorously told. -Los Angeles Times A marvelously comprehensive work about an epic engineering triumph. -The Philadelphia Inquirer A detailed study of the myriad personalities and design plans associated with the work. . . . . [Parker's] limpid prose is best suited to accounts of the dangers the laborers faced. -The New Yorker Parker has written the Panama story for a new generation. . . . It is [the workers'] heartfelt views on the conditions in which they lived and worked that really bring this book to life. -The Economist Few great feats of engineering have been steeped in as much passion and tragedy as the Panama Canal, and no one tells the story better than Matthew Parker. Through meticulous research and vivid, vigorous prose, Parker has captured the frenzy surrounding the canal and the heartbreaking toll that it took on the thousands of men who set off like soldiers to Panama's 'Fever Coast,' never to return. -Candice Millard, author of The River of Doubt: Theodore Roosevelt's Darkest Journey An epic tale of human folly and endeavor, beautifully told and researched. -John le Carre [An] engrossing narrative of what Theodore Roosevelt called 'one of the great works of the world.' -Publishers Weekly (starred review)