War of Nerves: Chemical Warfare from World War I to Al-Qaeda

Although this is an engaging, page-turning read, it also is extremely scholarly with notes, references and an amount of historical detail that was surprising. The accounts of the twists and turns of Hitler's "to use or not to use" saga is nail biting and extremely well written.As other reviewers have said, you won't get info on bactratoxins, secret CIA transdermals etc. as this focuses on nerve gases predominantly. There is a LOT known about China but not a lot said here but that's not a fault, the coverage is broad and deep with few exceptions.If you enjoy historical novels or well written "reader friendly" history, the author is amazing in the amount of very human detail he gives, including the horrific treatments of conscripted workers in many of these plants. When having a bad day I think of the guy the author describes who watched thousands of his co-workers die of poisoning, marched while thousands of others died like walking skeletons to other prison camps and factories, only, after being one of a few to survive, to be hunted down and murdered by the Gestapo for "knowing" too much!!! I'm not suggesting this topic is entertaining, but the author gives so much detail, you have to keep reminding yourself it is NOT a novel.Highly recommended not just for those interested in the narrow topic of nerve agents, but also the human side of to use or not to use decisions, and anyone that wants a very detailed look at this aspect of military history.

I work in Chem Demil and have read this book before but I wanted to read it again before passing on to coworkers .

As a cadet moving into the Army as a Chemical Corps officer I was looking for an introduction of the history of the Chemical Corps and chemical warfare. This book gave me exactly that and provided some details on the live agent training that I was not expecting to find. A good read for all interested and a valuable historical resource that will remain on my shelf for my entire career.

As a scientist in this field I was looking for a historical overview of chemicals weapons. This is a very comprehensive overview of nerve agents. While it does containing a lot of technical details, it is still very readable and moves at a good pace. This is a fascinating and revealing history and the author does a great job of explaining why countries but so much effort into developing these weapons yet only rarely used them.

An amazing and insightful look into the history of chemical warfare. If you are looking for a breakdown on how they are employed this is not the book for you. Instead it focuses on the history of these programs

I bought the book specifically for one subject area but, once reading those few references I found myself unable to put the book down. Its written at level to satisfy both a scientist and one just interested in the history. Dr. Tucker's other writings are also of this quality...

It did what it needed to do

Interesting and quick read (read it on a three day business trip). Illustrates the simultaneous revulsion and attraction to this weapon of mass destruction. Although it is heavy on science it does not feel unapproachable. Good Read.

Amazing from front to back!