Written as an extension of Mike Jay’s exhibition work at the Wellcome Collection in London, this book is replete with images concerning drug use and drug cultures. In fact, the text itself does not offer much new information or heavy insight. The strengths of the book lie in its use of images to inform and extend the written text.

This is an excellent introduction to the subject of drugs, particularly their use throughout history, the types of drugs (both natural and synthetic), and the drug trade. I particularly appreciated his discussion of many types of drugs, including food-based drugs such as sugar, coffee, and tea as well as the more obvious mind-altering drugs such as opium, coca leaf, and cannabis. The annotated notes and useful index make this an outstanding starting point for more in-depth research.