It’s a toxic world out there. Poisonous snakes, toxic herbicides, noxious fumes — poisons in one form or another are all around us. An innocent-looking flower may be lethal, and smog can make it impossible to breathe. Poisons can be the death of us, but they can also cure disease.

The second book in Annick’s 50 Questions series provides answers to many intriguing questions, such as: • Should you pee on a jellyfish sting? No, douse it with vinegar! • Why was the Mad Hatter mad? From working with mercury nitrate. • Can venomous lizards cure diabetes? Yes, a drug used to treat the disease comes from the Gila monster’s venom.

Poison Puzzles at the end of each chapter then test the readers’ knowledge.

Young readers who want to avoid paint that kills or leaves that give blisters can explore the fascinating and dangerous world of poisons. And don’t be afraid! The killer cartoons and dead-funny text are venom-free.