At the dawn of the 20th century, poisons offered an easy path to the perfect crime. But when New York City chose Charles Norris to be its Chief Medical Examiner in 1918, the poison game changed forever. In a series of fascinating cases Norris and his toxicologist Alexander Gettler reinvented criminal investigation. This is what CSI would have looked like in Jazz Age New York.
“A fascinating look back at the beginnings of forensic science. These stories make up a grim episode in American history that should never be forgotten.”
-Miami Herald
-Miami Herald
“Ah, for the days when you could stop by the local pharmacy and pick up some Radium Spray, advertised as 'the new combination bug killer, disinfectant, and furniture polish.' Those days – not that long ago, really – are recalled in The Poisoner’s Handbook. At a time when new types of science are demanding to be taken seriously in courts and the consumer arena, the subject matter resonates.”
-The New York Times
-The New York Times
“Balancing the fine line between murder mystery and documentary, the series captures the captivating, case-driven nature of the book, while staying true to the fact-based, scientific style of PBS. The series beautifully captures everything that made the book so special while taking full advantage of the visual medium that is television. THIS, for the record, is how do a documentary.”
-Discover Magazine
-Discover Magazine