Includes bibliographical references (p. 89-101) and index.

In words for the general reader, the author offers a series of startling facts supported by quotations from world leaders that are a frightening, yet never histrionic explanation of the damage resulting from biological and chemical warfare and the potential threat lurking in Earth's future. Citing examples of military and civilian persons exposed to chemical-biological agents, primarily from World War I to the Persian Gulf War, Gay argues for the need to understand and curtail the use of agents that often cannot be detected until the damage is done. The picture isn't entirely dark: she also explains how today's world powers are working to reverse the trend of developing and deploying such weapons, though in the background are reminders that some Middle Eastern countries have rejected curtailment and are stockpiling chemical combinations. -- ALA