The Poisoner's Handbook : Murder and the Birth of Forensic Medicine in Jazz Age New York (Hardcover)

from labdaddy4

A very easy to read and very informative book about the very beginnings of forensic science. The dedication, scientific knowledge, and determination of those early pioneers is a strong testament to their will and commitment. Modern medical science and current criminology own so much to these men.

from LibraryCin

3.75 stars The author looks back at the early 20th century in New York City as scientists learn more about various poisonous chemicals. She looks at various deaths (often murders, or suspected murders, but in some cases, accidental deaths) caused by the poisons. Various chemicals she focuses on i...

from Knicke

Can't add much substance to the existing reviews and blurbs, but this was a thoroughly enjoyable read. A few healthy dashes of history, chunks of police procedures, a good dose of science, and of course, lots and lots of poison. My only beef was that the narrative felt a bit disorganized at times...

from delphica

This is the story of the first scientifically qualified medical examiner in NYC (and also his chief toxicologist, who actually seemed to do more work, I noticed). Each chapter deals with a different poisonous substance, and how his office worked to identify how it caused death, and then translate...

from justabookreader

I read several reviews of this book, put it on my list, and promptly forgot about it. Unfortunately, this happens with many of the books I put on my list. They linger. Fortunately for The Poisoner's Handbook, I came across it while scanning the shelves at my favorite bookstore one afternoon. It's...