In "Dirt and Disease," Naomi Rogers delves into the complex history of the polio epidemic in the United States, tracing its impact from the early 20th century to the present. Through meticulous research and compelling narrative, Rogers reveals how the struggle against polio was not only a medical battle but also a cultural and social challenge. She explores the early scientific endeavors to understand the disease, the cultural explanations and myths that surrounded it, and the societal responses that ranged from fear-driven isolation to community-based support systems. By examining the intersection of health, disease, and culture, Rogers offers a nuanced perspective on the polio epidemic and its implications for American society. Rogers critically analyzes the ways in which socio-economic status, sanitation practices, and public health policies influenced the spread of polio and the public's reaction to it. She highlights the stigma attached to polio and how figures like President Franklin Delano Roosevelt helped to shift perceptions and reduce the disease's associated shame. Furthermore, Rogers does not shy away from the controversies and failures in the quest for a cure, including the devastating effects of early vaccine trials. "Dirt and Disease" is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of illness and fear, offering valuable lessons on the ongoing challenges in public health and the importance of scientific inquiry grounded in compassion and community.