Toms River (book)

Toms River-A Story of Science and Salvation

Toms River: A Story of Science and Salvation is a non-fiction book written by Dan Fagin. It was published in 2013 and won the Pulitzer Prize for General Nonfiction in 2014. The book investigates the industrial pollution and its effects on the small town of Toms River, New Jersey.

Summary

The book chronicles the history of Toms River, focusing on the environmental and health impacts of pollution caused by the Ciba-Geigy chemical plant and other industrial activities. It delves into the scientific studies and legal battles that ensued as residents sought to understand and address the high incidence of cancer and other health issues in the community.

Background

Toms River, located in Ocean County, New Jersey, became a focal point for environmental and public health research due to the unusually high rates of childhood cancer. The book details the establishment of the Ciba-Geigy plant in the 1950s and the subsequent dumping of chemical waste into the river and surrounding areas.

Key Themes

• **Environmental Pollution**: The book explores the extensive pollution caused by industrial activities and its long-term effects on the environment and public health.
• **Scientific Investigation**: It highlights the role of scientific research in uncovering the links between pollution and health issues.
• **Legal and Social Struggles**: The narrative covers the legal battles fought by the residents of Toms River and the social dynamics within the community as they sought justice and remediation.

Impact

Toms River has been praised for its thorough research and compelling storytelling. It has brought significant attention to the issues of industrial pollution and its impact on small communities, influencing both public opinion and policy.

Awards

• Pulitzer Prize for General Nonfiction (2014)

Related Pages

• Dan Fagin
• Pulitzer Prize for General Nonfiction
• Ciba-Geigy
• Toms River, New Jersey
• Environmental pollution
• Public health