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

by Deborah Blum
The Poisoner's Handbook: Murder and the Birth of Forensic Medicine in Jazz Age New York cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Technical
  • ID: 2618
  • Added: 2025-10-15
  • Updated: 2025-10-15
  • Reviews: 2
Reviews
publishersweekly.com · Unknown · 2025-10-19
fascinating 4.50

The Poisoner's Handbook offers a fascinating look at the early days of forensic medicine, blending science, history, and true crime in a compelling narrative. The book highlights the challenges faced by pioneers in the field and their impact on modern forensic practices.

The Poisoner's Handbook is a captivating exploration of the birth of forensic medicine in the 1920s. The book delves into the lives of two key figures, Charles Norris and Alexander Gettler, who revolutionized the field with their scientific approach to solving crimes. Their work, often met with resistance, laid the groundwork for modern forensic practices. The narrative is rich with historical detail and true crime stories, making it both educational and engaging. The book also sheds light on the social and political context of the time, adding depth to the scientific advancements. It's a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of science, history, and crime.

Quick quotes

    The book is a gripping account of the early days of forensic medicine.

    It's a fascinating blend of science, history, and true crime.

    The narrative is both educational and engaging.

nytimes.com · Unknown · 2010-02-25
fascinating 3.50

The Poisoner's Handbook is a gripping account of the birth of forensic medicine in Jazz Age New York, focusing on the work of Charles Norris and Alexander Gettler. The book blends true crime, history, and science, highlighting the dangers of poisons in everyday life and the pioneering efforts to combat them.

The Poisoner's Handbook by Deborah Blum is a fascinating exploration of the early days of forensic medicine in New York City. The book centers around the work of chief medical examiner Charles Norris and toxicologist Alexander Gettler, who tackled a series of perplexing poisoning cases. Blum's writing is engaging and suspenseful, making the complex science accessible and thrilling. The narrative is interwoven with the social and political context of the time, including the impact of Prohibition and the rise of industrial toxins. While the book is well-researched and informative, some readers might find the organization and writing style a bit disjointed. The cases range from intentional poisonings to accidental toxicities, which can sometimes blur the lines between different types of incidents. Despite this, the book offers a compelling look at the early days of forensic science and the challenges faced by its pioneers.

Quick quotes

    Deborah Blum, writing with the high style and skill for suspense that is characteristic of the very best mystery fiction, shares the untold story of how poison rocked Jazz Age New York City.

    Drama unfolds case by case as the heroes of The Poisoner's Handbook — chief medical examiner Charles Norris and toxicologist Alexander Gettler — investigate a family mysteriously stricken bald, Barnum and Bailey's Famous Blue Man, factory workers with crumbling bones, a diner serving poisoned pies, and many others.

    From the vantage of Norris and Gettler's laboratory in the infamous Bellevue Hospital it becomes clear that killers aren't the only toxic threat to New Yorkers.

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