In 1841, a quiet, curious boy who stuttered when nervous committed to becoming a surgeon—a profession then more feared than respected. Through study, persistence, and careful research, Joseph Lister proved that unsanitary conditions contribute to infections. Despite others scoffing at the idea of washing their hands before operating, Lister slowly changed the way all surgeons work, saving countless lives.   A revealing look at germs and the importance of following science, Lori Alexander’s accessible and engrossing biography of Joseph Lister contains fun—and sometimes gory—facts about the history of science and engaging illustrations by Daniel Duncan.