It was hard to read this story in the midst of the current pandemic. Our science and medical knowledge has advanced from 1918 but each virus is unique and its like starting from scratch. We know so little about COVID-19. I am familiar with how the 1918 influenza pandemic affected Philadelphia from when we lived in the city. I know what Shunk Alley would look like, The setting is so vividly described. Wiseman has been able to give a good feel for the place, times, and the society through the characters and action. She has incorporated so many details, from the ‘do not spit’ signs to the anti-German sentiment after WWII. The story willhave a wide interest today. I would enjoy reading this novel.