More than 100 years ago, the US launched what became known as the War on Drugs, a relentless, if futile, campaign to convince Americans – and later the rest of the world – to « Just say no. » The history of that war is the subject of Johann Hari’s fascinating and compelling Chasing the Scream, an important analysis of the whys and wherefores of this colossal waste of energy, time and money.

Hari introduces several characters that serve as archetypes to tell the tale: Harry Anslinger, the law enforcer; Arnold Rothstein, the dealer and profiteer; and Billie Holiday, the addict.