The poison diaries - Isobel Jane Miller Percy Northumberland

This beautifully illustrated volume is a facsimile of the journal of "Weed" found at Alnwick Castle. Weed was an orphan boy apprenticed to an evil old apothecary, who used him abysmally. This is his diary, and a sorry tale of the battle between good and evil it is too.

Weed's journal is part botanical workbook and part a diary of his own relationship with the poisonous plants, for he discovers that he is one of a few people with whom the plants can talk. The plants try to persuade Weed that with their help his master can easily be disposed of. Weed at first refuses. However, after his first love, Marigold, experiments with the poisons and dies, Weed is pushed over the edge and eventually plots to kill his master in spectacular fashion, using a taste of his own evil medicine.

Each "chapter" of the story starts with Weed making botanical notes of the plants as his master has taught him. The plant's appearance and properties, where it is found, how it should be cared for, the most poisonous parts, how poison is extracted and administered, etc. These notes are accompanied by sketches of the plants in their natural form. Alongside, however, are Weed's illustrated "diary" entries which show the "real" personalities of the plants. The poisons include Belladonna, Ergot, Hemlock, Henbane, Opium, Hogweed, Ricin, Nicotinia, Mandrake and Strychnine.

This gothic yet entertaining tale will delight both children and adults and also serves as an educational parable.