image: Cover of "The Rest of the Story: Forgotten Stories of Plant Pathology History"
Credit: © APS PRESS, The American Phytopathological Society
The Rest of the Story: Forgotten Stories of Plant Pathology History, by Robert M. Harveson (Panhandle Research and Extension Center, University of Nebraska–Lincoln), offers a unique and engaging exploration of plant disease epidemics and their often-overlooked influence on world history. Drawing from his popular column in Phytopathology News, “Plant Pathology’s Perplexing Past,” Harveson compiles 48 short, accessible stories that blend scientific insight with compelling historical narrative.
This collection of stories shines a light on lesser-known plant diseases and the surprising roles they have played in shaping human events—stories that are rarely told yet deeply impactful. Whether it's a forgotten epidemic or a twist in a well-known outbreak, each story uncovers the hidden connections between plant pathology and historical change.
Written for both specialists and curious readers alike, Forgotten Stories of Plant Pathology History is a must-read for anyone interested in plant science or environmental history—or simply looking to explore plant pathology through a new lens.
This title was published by APS PRESS, the publishing imprint of The American Phytopathological Society, a nonprofit, international organization that advances the science and practice of plant health management in agricultural, urban, and forest settings. The Society was founded in 1908 and has grown from 130 charter members to more than 3,500 scientists and practitioners worldwide.