Thalidomide: patented in Germany as a non-toixic cure-all for sleeplessness and morning sickness; a wonder drug with no side effects. Here James Essinger and Sandra Koutzenko explore the devastating world history of thalidomide, its development, proliferation and its victims' stories. Above all, they reveal the fascinating battle between Frances Kelley, newcomer to the FDA, and Big Pharama's Richardson-Merrell, as she sought to block the drug's introduction. A medical officer and scientist, Frankie was a hero who saved thousands, if not millions, of lives.