When Smoke Ran Like Water: Tales of Environmental Deception and the Battle against Pollution.

DEVRA DAVIS 

Professionally, Davis has spent her career as an epidemiologist researching links between environmental pollution and human health. Personally, she has been touched by the pursuit, as well. She grew up in a Pennsylvania valley where 20 people perished in a single day allegedly because of smog from industrial sources. This is a far-reaching survey of risks associated with industrial toxins and how those risks can be managed. The author argues that in the same way we inspect bridges so they won't fall down, we should address issues of toxic pollution before people get ill or die from it. She reveals instances in which science has been manipulated for corporate gain and at the expense of citizens' health. For instance, she writes that the Ethyl Corporation fought to keep lead in gasoline while evidence grew of the dangers of air pollution from the metal. Other corporations litigate endlessly to resist changing work environments that are obviously dangerous, she charges. This compelling book is a 2002 National Book Award finalist. Basic, 2002, 316 p., b&w plates, hardcover, $26.00.