The author builds the tension of this story in several ways. Discuss what you thought was most effective in creating suspense for the reader.

How do you feel about Tom Geisbert and Peter Jarhling's decision not to tell their superiors of "the whiffing incident?" Does it differ from what Nurse Mayinga did when she left the hospital?

Discuss how you think the story would change if news crews had shown up and filmed the biocontainment operation.

Why do you think Gene Johnson did not have results of the Kitum Cave expedition published?

Discuss how her work with hot agents affected Nancy Jaax's personal life. How did it affect her professional life?

What is the allure of working with hot agents? Why do these people do it? Would you do it?

Do you think the author's method of blending his research and interviews together worked...