I had seen this book available and after discussing it with a friend they mentioned they had a copy they had just finished reading and they would lend it to me. They did mention that they thought it was a very odd book, based on that of a very young murderer. I was hesistant to begin this book but wanted to get my teeth into something a bit different. I must admit I did find it hard going. It is based on the story of a boy who is only fourteen years old. But having been charged with the murder of another school child he was also charged with the murders of family members too - in fact with the use of poison. Now where would a fourteen year old get poison? It is set in 1962 and he was the youngest person to get sentenced to a stint in Broadmoor in the psychiatric hospital. When he was released he actually managed to find work - knowing he was a multi murderer would he have gotten work in todays times - not so sure about that! And even after gaining his freedom he still maintained an unhealthy obsession with poisonous products. A difficult book to read - some parts were difficult to read whilst other areas were a bit unbelievable. Make of this what you will !!