Poison

June 15, 2017
The roles poisons have played in history from ancient times to the present are presented in this frequently ghoulish, occasionally cheeky chronicle.Albee explains that "as long as humans have lived in social groups, poisons have played a part." She explores the impacts poisons, both natural and manufactured, have had on history, crime, medicine, science, religion, slavery, jobs, advertising, and everyday life. Poison was used to end the lives of such famous and infamous figures as Socrates, Alexander the Great, Rasputin, Joseph Stalin, and Yasser Arafat, numerous Roman emperors, and more than a few popes. With poisons such as arsenic and strychnine easily available in pharmacies until the early 20th century, murder by poison was not limited to the notable and powerful. Poisoning fell out of favor with advances in forensic science and toxicology. Albee also discusses the applications of poisons in medical treatment; these were often detrimental or fatal to the patient but could be beneficial, as in chemotherapy for cancer. The countless lives affected by greedy "snake oil" salesmen, food contaminants, and industrial toxins are also explored. Complementing the narrative are sidebars highlighting specific poisons, unresolved questions, and unsolved mysteries. Albee's approach to the subject is lively, accessible, and likely to inspire many readers to delve deeper. A compelling, entertaining, and informative introduction to a sinister aspect of human history. (timeline, glossary, resources, notes, bibliography) (Nonfiction. 10-14)

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July 1, 2017

Gr 5-8-The author of Poop Happened and Bugged: How Insects Changed History delves into the torrid history of poisons both accidental and purposeful. Albee explains early on that she has chosen to sidestep warfare and genocide and focus primarily on the Western cultures with which she is most familiar, though she doesn't mention how freely she has speculated about historical deaths that occurred before toxicology screens could corroborate suspicions. The author provides a varied and engrossing exploration of toxic substances and their use and misuse throughout millennia. Chapters are roughly in chronological order and overflow with sidebars, photos, and "Tox Boxes," which each highlight a single poison and its properties. The author avoids diving too deeply into chemical and biological minutiae, and the format and content combine for a quick pace. Touching on hazardous occupations, political intrigue, personal vendettas, and tainted food, among many other gruesome situations, Albee tracks the halting scientific advancements that have improved protections and saved lives, often as a result of hideous setbacks. The rapid-fire style and punny captions impose a certain levity, even when death and injury are covered, which may not suit more sensitive readers. But the extensive back matter will surely win the hearts of librarians and other fact-minded folks. VERDICT Ideal for readers, including reluctant ones, who delight in the science and scare factor of poisons or grotesque medicine.-Robbin E. Friedman, Chappaqua Library, NY

Copyright 2017 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Starred review from September 1, 2017
Grades 5-8 *Starred Review* Once the convulsing bodies and pools of vomit are cleared away, readers will find a tantalizing history of poisons, which they'll be hard-pressed to put down. Having previously covered topics like poop and bugs, Albee is a pro at homing in on subjects that kids love, and this is no exception. Clearly stating that this is not a how-to guide, she swiftly moves through the eras of human history, from prehistory to modern times, not only highlighting popular poisons and poisoners but also the social conditions and level of scientific knowledge defining each age. Unsurprisingly, murderous royalty occupy many pagespoisoned enema, anyone?but so do commoners, who were often victims of hazardous jobs (e.g., Radium Girls), adulterated food, poisonous medicines, and toxic dyes. Chapters are short and boast reader-friendly layouts with cartoon illustrations, archival photos and advertisements, and an array of boxed content. This includes frequent Tox Boxes that call out specific poisons and their effects; Poisoned or Not? asides featuring dubious deaths; dangerous professions, such as painters, hat makers, and match makers; and Drop Dead Gorgeous notes on toxic beauty treatments. While there are shocking and disgusting facts aplenty, Albee also discusses the rise of toxicology and forensic science, and the much-needed emergence of food and drug regulation. Her light tone makes this morbid, well-researched study a sinister indulgence.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2017, American Library Association.)