James Garfield traveled a path from an Ohio log home to the American presidency. The convoluted thinking of a man named Charles Guiteau led to a plot to shoot Garfield. Both of those stories are part of this fascinating account that details the day of the shooting and the weeks that followed, including the differing approaches of the physicians who treated Garfield, the impact on his wife and children, political repercussions, and the media’s reporting of his condition and eventual death 80 days after he was shot. There was controversy over the medical treatment Garfield received, which adhered to Civil War-era practices (including probing the wound with unwashed bare hands) rather than complying with more recent changes to minimize chances of infection, leading to disagreement and accusations, with many experts of the time believing the president could have survived with different care. Closing chapters cover Guiteau’s trial and execution, the lives of James Garfield’s family after his death, the widespread acceptance of germ theory in medical practice, and a call for increased presidential protection. Photographs and other visual material illustrate this compelling work that includes detailed source notes, a glossary, timeline, related websites, and bibliography. (Age 11 and older)

Winner of the 2022 YALSA Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Adults Award

This thrilling title for young readers blends science, history, and medical mysteries to tell the story of the assassination and ultimately horrible death of President James Garfield.

James Abram Garfield, the 20th President of the United States, was assassinated when he was shot by Charles Guiteau in July 1881, less than four months after he was elected president. But Garfield didn't actually die until 80 days later. In this page-turner, award-winning author Gail Jarrow delves into the fascinating story of the relationship between Garfield and Guiteau, and relates the gruesome details of Garfield's slow and agonizing death. She reveals medical mistakes made in the aftermath of Garfield's assassination, including the faulty diagnoses and outdated treatments that led to the president's demise. This gripping blend of science, history, and mystery—the latest title in the Medical Fiascoes series—is nonfiction for kids at its best: exciting and relevant and packed with plenty of villains and horrifying facts.