Deadly Companions: How Microbes Shaped our History (Oxford Landmark Science) by Dorothy H. Crawford delves into the intertwined history of human communities and microbes. The book begins with a compelling narrative of the SARS pandemic, then traces the evolution of both humans and microorganisms throughout history. It examines key moments in human culture—such as transitions from hunter-gatherers to farmers to city-dwellers—that heightened our vulnerability to microbial infections. Crawford explores how modern lifestyles, including increased population density and global travel, continue to pose risks. The text questions whether humanity can ever fully conquer microbes or if we must adopt a more holistic view that considers the roles of these organisms in shaping human history. Part of Oxford University Press’s esteemed Landmark Science series, this updated edition offers essential insights into the complex relationship between humans and their microbial companions.