Product Description

Written by a very well-known authority in forensic science, this book introduces the non-scientific reader to the field of forensic science.  Through applications to criminal investigations, clear explanations of the techniques, and the abilities and limitations of modern crime labs, Criminalistics covers the comprehensive realm of forensics.  The book strives to make the technology of the modern crime laboratory clear to the non-scientist.  Combining case stories with applicable technology, Criminalistics captures the excitement of forensic science investigations. Familiarizes readers with the most current technologies in forensic analysis. KEYAims at making the subject of forensic science comprehensible to a wide variety of readers who are planning on being aligned with the forensic science profession. 

Customer Reviews (28)

Great book!
the book came very fast and in awesome condition for the price i paid. im VERY pleased with both the seller and the product.

Intro to Forensics
Excellent textbook with very good illustrations.Criminalistics: An Introduction to Forensic Science (College Edition) (9th Edition)
For college students and others, the text offers a variety topics and does not get too scientific and bore the reader.A great book in my opinion.

Forensics Frenzy
This book has almost everything you need to know about forensics and its science processes.If you liked biology in high school then this book will help you reach new levels of insight.Great book that ties real events to science.

Fabulous book!!
This book is a wealth of information for someone who is looking to learn about forensics!It just scratches the surface of the wonderful world of forensic science but it increases the appetite to learn more!!The information is simple to understand and the book has helpful pictures and illustrations.

Fantastic Service
I would highly recommend this seller.My product arrived weeks before estamated time of arrival in the exact condition as described if not better. ... Read more

Book Description
For multi-user PDF licensing, please contact customer service.


Scores of talented and dedicated people serve the forensic science community, performing vitally important work. However, they are often constrained by lack of adequate resources, sound policies, and national support. It is clear that change and advancements, both systematic and scientific, are needed in a number of forensic science disciplines to ensure the reliability of work, establish enforceable standards, and promote best practices with consistent application. Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States: A Path Forward provides a detailed plan for addressing these needs and suggests the creation of a new government entity, the National Institute of Forensic Science, to establish and enforce standards within the forensic science community.

The benefits of improving and regulating the forensic science disciplines are clear: assisting law enforcement officials, enhancing homeland security, and reducing the risk of wrongful conviction and exoneration. Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States gives a full account of what is needed to advance the forensic science disciplines, including upgrading of systems and organizational structures, better training, widespread adoption of uniform and enforceable best practices, and mandatory certification and accreditation programs.

While this book provides an essential call-to-action for congress and policy makers, it also serves as a vital tool for law enforcement agencies, criminal prosecutors and attorneys, and forensic science educators. ... Read more

Product Description
Unlike other introductory textbooks on the topic, Fundamentals of Forensic Science, 2e presents a complete look at the forensic sciences, emphasizing the biology, chemistry, and physical sciences that underpin forensic science. Over 40% of newly revised content, covering the principles that are central to forensic science. Discussing topics that are typically excluded from generalized discussions of criminalistics, this book provides a depth and breadth of information that no other textbook contains. Written by two of the leading experts in forensic science today, Fundamentals of Forensic Science, 2e approaches the field from a truly unique and exciting perspective.

Ranging from traditional topics such as crime scene investigation, spectroscopy, and DNA analysis, to the less-commonly covered --but just as essential-- topics of pathology, entomology, and anthropology, Fundamentals of Forensic Science, 2e is everything a student or practicing professional needs. Organized along the timeline of a real case, it begins with an introduction and history of forensic science, covers the basic methods of analysis used in most forensic examinations, addresses the biological, chemical, and physical elements relevant to the field, and concludes with an examination of how forensic science intersects with the law.

* Vivid, full-color illustrations that diagram key concepts and depict evidence encountered in the field
* Straightforward unit organization that includes key terms, numerous feature boxes emphasizing Internet resources, historical events in forensic science, practical issues in laboratory analysis, and topics for further reading
* Effective pedagogy -including end-of-chapter questions- paired with a clear writing style makes this an invaluable resource for professors and students of forensic science
... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Fundamentals of Forensic Science
Here is another book pruchased on May 26th and didn't receive until 2 weeks after class started. So I had to purchase another book and then there is an issue with returning the books. Check return policy at Amazon or purchase from another place.

Comprehensive but easy to read
I purchased this book as a requirement for my introduction to forensic science class, which I took in a summer session so it was really condensed. I am not a science buff, but I fully understood all of the concepts presented in the book. Although a little bulky the font is rather large so the reading goes relatively fast. There are quite a bit of illustrations to compound the information provided. But be warned...some of the illustrations are a little graphic in nature! The subject bares that fact. My only complaint is there is no electronic version of the book which means you have to carry to book around if you want to get some reading done in your spare time. Otherwise it's a great buy for anyone looking to break into the field or just has a general interest in the subject.

LW

Used for Class
I can't say that I was particularly intrigued but needed this book for a class. It served its purpose.

The Forensic Student's Bible
My daughter, a budding Forensics specialist, asked for this book for her birthday.She was thrilled when she got it, saying that this is a book that her professor had recommended, and that it is a book that you return to throughout your studies. I haven't read it, but she certainly seems happy with it, reading it before she goes to bed! Never thought this would be a book she'd read before she went to bed...

Incredible!A must-have for your reference shelf!
I've gotten a lot of disappointing textbooks for my classes in forensics but this is definately not one of them.It is very clear, well-written, and thorough.It is well organized and that makes it very easy to find things in it.All of the graphics and supplemental information provided throughout the chapters are beneficial and the summaries at the end of each chapter actually do a good job of reviewing and testing your knowledge.Even if you don't need this for a class (like I did) I would definitely recommend getting it to keep as a general reference book. ... Read more

Product Description
THE ULTIMATE READERS’ GUIDE TO THE ART OF FORENSICS!

An intrepid investigator crawls through miles of air conditioning ducts to capture the implicating fibers of a suspect’s wool jacket . . . A forensic entomologist discovers insects in the grill of a car and nails down a drug dealer’s precise geographical path . . . A gluttonous criminal’s fingerprints are lifted from a chocolate truffle. . . .

Filled with these and many other intriguing true stories, and packed with black and white illustrations and photographs, The Forensic Casebook draws on interviews with police personnel and forensic scientists—including animal examiners, botanists, zoologists, firearms specialists, and autoposists—to uncover the vast and detailed underworkings of criminal investigation. Encyclopedic in scope, this riveting, authoritative book leaves no aspect of forensic science untouched, covering such fascinating topics as:

• Securing a crime scene
• Identifying blood splatter patterns
• Collecting fingerprints—and feet, lip, and ear prints
• Interpreting the stages of a body’s decay
• Examining hair and fiber evidence
• Trace evidence from firearms and explosives
• “Lifting” DNA prints
• Computer crime and forensic photography
• Career paths in criminal science

Lucidly written and spiked with real crime stories, The Forensic Casebook exposes the nitty gritty that other books only touch upon. Here is a reference book as addictive as a page-turning novel of suspense. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (21)

Forensic Science Teacher Treasure
I bought this for my husband who teaches criminal justice and forensic science.He uses it in his class and was very pleased for excellent cases to use with his high school students.

Very little fact, and many "facts" are plain wrong.
I've had this book for quite a while, and had flipped through it a few times, but only recently actually read it straight through.
After reading it, I am not surprised to find that N.E. Genge's other writing credits include books about "Buffy the Vampire Slayer", "Charmed" and "The X-Files".The appendix containing information about the different universities and colleges offering programs in forensic science is, by far, the most informative aspect of the book.
The book itself is absolutely riddled with errors.
The obvious errors?For starters, there is no such thing as a "Ford Cougar".The Ford Motor Company has, in the past, manufactured a car known as the "Cougar", however, that was under the Mercury brand.Likewise, Genge confuses two major plane crashes, when she claims that "victims of TWA Flight 800's crash in the Everglades were identified" by the STR process of DNA analysis.I have no idea if those victims were (or weren't) identified by that process, but I DO know for CERTAIN that TWA Flight 800 crashed off of Long Island, New York, and NOT in the Everglades.
It is mind-boggling that a mistake like this could find its way into a published work.
Less obvious to those unfamiliar with forensic science are the errors that appear in other parts of the book.
Incorrect terminology is used in many instances; the most obvious being "blood splatter".The correct term is "spatter", and much of the information given about it is incorrect.The size of blood droplets has nothing to do with how fast the blood was traveling.
Genge fails to accurately explain the properties of a "cartridge", and confuses the term "jacket" with a casing (otherwise known as a "shell" or "brass") in the description.A cartridge is made up of a casing (brass), a slug (lead... or "jacketed with a harder metal to make it resist deformation, thus penetrating armor OR to simply reduce lead build-up in the barrel), gunpowder (propellant) and an impact-sensitive primer.The phrase "surrounding or partially surrounding a metal core" seems to have been lifted directly from a text describing a jacketed round, and then incorrectly applied to the components of a cartridge.
When discussing photographing cyano-fumed evidence for prints, Genge writes "in the print, building up a white substance that can be photographed directly if the object is white..."Huh?A white substance on a white object can be photographed?
Overall, the lack of information and sheer amount of factual errors make this book anything but a definitive "casebook" of forensic science.

The Forensic Casebook: The Science of Crime Scene Investigation (Paperback)
This seller went above and beyond to meet my special shipping needs, awsome job good soul excellent businessman..

Good Material
I bought this for my 15 yr old niece as a gift since she is obsessed with crime scene dramas and wants to be a forensic scientist. She says the book is "awesome."

Interesting, but useless
I bought this book for my daughter. The idea was that she was really into forensics and wanted to learn more about the subject. Unfortunately, this book was so bad, she never finished it. I gave it to her as a research tool, and within a few weeks, she'd discovered so much from other sources that she started to doubt how informed this book was. She said it started out interesting, but as she learned more, the factual errors and inconsistencies drove her away from the book. She's still following forensics, but this book is not on her reading list. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Forensic Science
Thanks to books like this and Amazon help, my books for my higher education degrees have not been so costly

Ok.
Good value for money. Have looked it through briefly. A number of relevant references to each chapter, which is good (saves time). ... Read more

Product Description

Now revised and updated, this comprehensive work, long considered the top textbook in the forensics field, reaches far beyond the scope of those introductory texts that concentrate primarily on criminalistics. Covering a range of fundamental topics, it introduces newcomers to the field while providing the technical detail necessary to understand the field as a science. To this end the book is compatible with CRC lab manuals, including Forensic Science Laboratory Manual and Workbook, Third Edition (87193) and Crime Scene Processing and Laboratory Workbook (85425).

Praise for the Previous Edition:
"The first-hand experience of the authors and the use of real case studies, including photographs, captivate the reader. Even non-forensic science students and the general public would find this book interesting reading."
   —Kieran F. Lim, Physical Sciences Educational Reviews, Vol. 7, No. 1

This updated third edition includes:

• New material on forensic photography, crime scenes, and forensic pathology, including a chapter on Forensic Digital Photo Imaging
• Simplified, easy-to-understand chapters on computer forensics and DNA analysis
• Revised materials in each chapter to reflect advances in the field

New and More Extensive Teaching Materials:
An instructor’s guide with objectives, questions and answers, suggested activities, and material in electronic format is available to qualifying instructors. This ancillary material is available on the convenient website classwire.com or on CD-ROM.

Customer Reviews (15)

Forensic Science
Book arrived in Great shape! (Almost like new) Well worth the money..Thank you..

Great!
Thank you so much. The book is in great condition and it is way cheaper than at my campus bookstore. I will be using it tomorrow for the first time. Will definitely use seller again!

Forensics
This book isn't set for beginners in forensics- it's more advanced and there is a lot of good information for more advanced students. Alot of technical terminology and analysis information.

Forensic Science: An Intro @nd Edition
I'd like to write a review but I have not received the book, yet!It should have been delivered between Jan 12-28 and it is now Feb 7.I will very likely never order a book from Amazon again.

Excellent textbook
I have evaluated several of the forensic textbooks for a course in forensic science and have used both of Saferstein's books (Criminalistics; Forensic Science) in past courses.After viewing James and Norby, I have concluded that it is superior in both coverage and detail to any of the other textbooks and will be using it in courses at the college level for both criminal justice and science majors.No textbook is perfect and some supplementation is always needed, but this book comes the closest to comprehensive coverage of the topic. ... Read more

Product Description
The authoritative guide to navigating crime scenes—for professionals and for anyone fascinated by the world of CSI.FBI Handbook of Crime Scene Forensics is the official procedural guide for law enforcement agencies, attorneys, and tribunals submitting evidence to the FBI. This handbook outlines the proper methods for investigating crime scenes, examining evidence (bullets, computers, hairs, inks, lubricants, ropes, shoeprints, tire treads, weapons of mass destruction, and more), packing and shipping evidence to the FBI, and observing safety protocol at hazardous crime scenes. At once a guide for professional forensics experts and an introduction for laymen, FBI Handbook of Crime Scene Forensics makes perfect reading for fans of Cold Case, Silent Witness, and the Law & Order and CSI franchises, and anyone with an interest in investigative police work and the criminal justice system. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Interesting book! But available for free...
According to another customer, this book is available for free (pdf version). I wish I had paid attention to this before, but anyway... a book is always a book. And this is a very interesting one. Not great, just good.

This is a ripoff
This "book" is a government publication that is free to download from the FBI's web site in PDF version. Save your money, download it from the FBI.

Forensic Science
Thanks to books like this and Amazon, I am now a Criminalist without being broke.

IF YOU'RE A FICTION WRITER AND HAVE CRIME SCENES IN YOUR NOVEL, GET THIS BOOK!
If you're a fiction writer and have crime scenes in your novel, get this book! In this book, you will find out details of crime scene investigation available nowhere else, and you can trust the FBI to tell it like it really is. This book is the actual procedural law enforcement agencies use to submit evidence to the FBI. If you want to know how impressions of footprints are taken in snow; that money from bank robberies can be tested not only for dye but tear gas residue; what evidence should be collected in paper versus plastic; how to set up a camera to photograph a crime scene; and the collection of tissue, bones, and teeth, those are just a few examples of the information this book is packed with. Even though my novel is a serial killer story with a humorous slant (a woman is murdering her online enemies for their Barbie doll collections), the plethora of details in this handbook will lend your writing authenticity and they will make your story come alive for the reader. Thank you, FBI, for publishing it. -- M.S. Bylenok (Bury Me With Barbie) ... Read more

Product Description
This text is an accessible, student-friendly introduction to the wide range of mathematical and statistical tools needed by the forensic scientist in the analysis, interpretation and presentation of experimental measurements.

From a basis of high school mathematics, the book develops essential quantitative analysis techniques within the context of a broad range of forensic applications. This clearly structured text focuses on developing core mathematical skills together with an understanding of the calculations associated with the analysis of experimental work, including an emphasis on the use of graphs and the evaluation of uncertainties. Through a broad study of probability and statistics, the reader is led ultimately to the use of Bayesian approaches to the evaluation of evidence within the court. In every section, forensic applications such as ballistics trajectories, post-mortem cooling, aspects of forensic pharmacokinetics, the matching of glass evidence, the formation of bloodstains and the interpretation of DNA profiles are discussed and examples of calculations are worked through. In every chapter there are numerous self-assessment problems to aid student learning.

Its broad scope and forensically focused coverage make this book an essential text for students embarking on any degree course in forensic science or forensic analysis, as well as an invaluable reference for post-graduate students and forensic professionals.

Key features:

• Offers a unique mix of mathematics and statistics topics, specifically tailored to a forensic science undergraduate degree.
• All topics illustrated with examples from the forensic science discipline.
• Written in an accessible, student-friendly way to engage interest and enhance learning and confidence.
• Assumes only a basic high-school level prior mathematical knowledge.

Product Description
Forensic Science in Court explores the legal implications of forensic science--an increasingly important and complex part of the justice system.Judge Donald Shelton provides an accessible overview of the legal issues, from the history of evidence in court, to 'gatekeeper' judges determining what evidence can be allowed, to the 'CSI effect' in juries.The book describes and evaluates various kinds of evidence, including DNA, fingerprints, handwriting, hair, bite marks, tool marks, firearms and bullets, fire and arson investigation, and bloodstain evidence.Assessing the strengths and limitations of each kind of evidence, the author also discusses how they can contribute to identifying the 'who,' 'how,' and 'whether' questions that arise in criminal prosecutions.Author Donald Shelton draws on the depth of his experiences as courtroom prosecutor, professor, and judge, to provide a well-rounded look at these increasingly critical issues.Case studies throughout help bring the issues to life and show how forensic science has been used, both successfully and not, in real-world situations. ... Read more

Product Description
A new first edition by the # 1 author in Forensic Science (Richard Saferstein) Forensic Science: From theCrime Scene to the Crime Lab is designed to present forensic science in a very straightforward and easy to understand format. A book in forensic science can quickly overwhelm readers who have little or no course work in basic science.  While a book in Forensic Science cannot avoid a discussion of some basic science principles, it can be done in a fashion that does not confuse the student.  This book does just that!  ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Great!
The book is in wonderful condition and the shipping was very fast! It came before the expected date and I'm very pleased! Thanks so much! ... Read more

Product Description
The most trusted nonfiction series on the market, Eyewitness Books provide an in-depth, comprehensive look at their subjects with a unique integration of words and pictures. Eyewitness Books now come with a giant wall chart and a CD of clip-art.

A fascinating look at the tools and techniques used by forensic scientists in solving crimes-from fingerprint analysis to DNA testing. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Forensic Science
Arrived on time and in good condition.Great book about forensic science with lots of details. ... Read more

Product Description

Criminalistics is the definitive source for forensic science because it makes the technology of the modern crime laboratory clear to the non-scientist.  Written by a well-known authority, the text covers the comprehensive realm of forensics and its role in criminal investigations. Physical evidence collection and preservation techniques are examined in detail–including chapters on Computer Forensics and DNA. By referencing real cases throughout, Criminalistics, 10e captures the pulse and intensity of forensic science investigations and the attention of the busiest student. Some new, excited features for this edition include:

• New! Crime-Scene Reconstruction chapter
• New! Coverage of the latest DNA forensic technology 
• New! MyCrimeKit–is an online supplement that offers book-specific content such as Learning Objectives; Chapter Summaries Flashcards Practice Tests,Video Clips, Web Extras, and Animations Activities!

This book aims at making the subject of forensic science comprehensible to a wide variety of readers who are planning on being aligned with the forensic science profession.

Customer Reviews (1)

The book is incomplete
I purchased this book and anticipated its delivery.Once I received it, I was sorry I bought it.It suppose to come with a CD and in order to go into the websites the book suggests, you need a access codes.Amazon does not give you the access codes to access these websites, so I'm stuck with just the book.I feel cheated.In my opinion, do not waste your money on this book.It lacks too many vital components. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Great Book to Learn the Basics of Forensic Anthropology
This book is a great resource for anyone wanting to learn more about the the core components and research topics within the field of Forensic Anthropology. If your are considering taking a class or pursuing a career in either Forensic Anthropology or Physical/Biological Anthropology, then buy this book right now! You won't regret it. It's the only book I know of that covers everything from sexing the skeleton to traum to mumification to bioarchaeology to much, much more. Each sub-category within the field of Forensic Anthropology is masterfully summerized in a couple pages with fantastic colored phots and case-studies to help the reader make sense of the the text. Originally the book was written for high-school students, but don't let that fool you. I'm in Grad School studying Foresnsic Anthropology and this book is sitting on my bookshelf right next to a 400 page Forensic Anthrotext full of words I have trouble just pronouncing. This is the book I turn to when I need a 2 - 3 minute refresher course on any of the sub-categories or terminology I haven't looked at in a while. ... Read more

Product Description
A plain-English primer on crime scene investigation that's a must for fans of CSI or Patricia Cornwell
Since the O. J. Simpson case, popular interest in forensic science has exploded: CBS's CSI has 16 to 26 million viewers every week, and Patricia Cornwell's novels featuring a medical examiner sleuth routinely top bestseller lists, to cite just a few examples. Now, everyone can get the lowdown on the science behind crime scene investigations. Using lots of fascinating case studies, forensics expert Dr. D. P. Lyle clues people in on everything from determining cause and time of death to fingerprints, fibers, blood, ballistics, forensic computing, and forensic psychology. With its clear, entertaining explanations of forensic procedures and techniques, this book will be an indispensable reference for mystery fans and true crime aficionados everywhere-and even includes advice for people interested in forensic science careers.

D. P. Lyle, MD (Laguna Hills, CA), is a practicing cardiologist who is also a forensics expert and mystery writer. He runs a Web site that answers writers' questions about forensics, dplylemd.com, and is the author of Murder and Mayhem: A Doctor Answers Medical and Forensic Questions for Writers, as well as several mystery novels. John Pless, MD, is Professor Emeritus of Pathology at Indiana University School of Medicine and former President of the National Association of Medical Examiners. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (15)

Forensics books
Ordered this book as a gift and it arrived quickly & with my entire order.My brother loved every one of the books!

forensics for dummies
looks interesting - can't remember whether I bought for myself or for my grand daughter - I don't see it here

Very interesting and very educational
I feel very satisfied by this book.I purchased it-as well as most of those who will-because I am a fan of crime/detective fiction and of some television series like C.S.I. and Law and Order.I am a mechanical engineering student and I take a most scientific approach to things that catch my attention;so,if you are even remotely interested in forensic science and want to take a glimpse to the science and the processes behind the pursuit of criminals and the quest for justice,I believe this book will be a worthy investment,not only because it will provide you with almost all the information you may seek,but also because it will make you even more interested than you allready are in its subject-that is a very important and equally rare quality for an essentially scientific work.If you read this,you will have fun ,you will learn new things and by the end of your reading you will have found a new interest in science as well.Highly recommended.

Great For Classroom Use
As instructor of criminal justice, i find this book remarkable for its clear, simple yet thorough explanation of the basics of forensic science.This book makes a somewhat complicated subject easy for the student to grasp and comprehend.A great supplement to any textbook on this subject.

A book I will use for all my writing!
This book is an absolute necessity for me as I am a mystery writer.Dr. Lyle uses a forthright, yet somewhat humorous, approach that makes the reading and understanding easy.I keep this on my desk at all times as I write about those murder scenes and autopsies! ... Read more

Product Description
The Crime Scene: How Forensic Science Works is filled with black-and-white and color photos that capture the scene in a crime investigation. You are taken into the mind of a forensic scientist as they analyze a homicide from the time that it happens to the time it is solved.

As you take the journey into the crime, you will learn about what it takes to uncover evidence using new technology that let's you see well past the naked eye.

Expertly written and filled with scientific information for the student studying forensic science, or the individual interested in learning more about a career path in criminal science, The Crime Scene: How Forensic Science Works takes you beyond what you hear on the news into a world of examination and discovery. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

The Crime Scene
Ordered this book as a gift and it arrived quickly & with the entire order.My brother loved every one of the books!

Good book for introductory college level course into CSI and Forensics
I teach college classes in Crime Scence Investigation and recently came across this book by W.M. Dale and Wendy Becker.I like the flow, and how it is broken down into simple to follow sections, while tying in real world lessons learned. I will likely switch to this book for my CSI students and I would recommend it to other instructors for use in basic CSI classes.

Forget CSI and 24!
Forget CSI and 24! "The Crime Scene: How Forensic
Science Works" tells the real story. This book is a
fascinating look into the who, what, where, and why of
crime scene evidence, including not just the science,
but the psychology behind what can motivate or derail
members of the crime scene team. I especially liked
the real-life crime scene narrative that was featured
in every chapter. This followed an actual homicide
from EMS to court case; the actual 'lessons' of the
text were applied to this real case. I also found
that the 'Frequently Asked Questions' seemed to cut
right to the chase in terms of the chapter's main
findings. Great text for students or anyone interested
in this ever-evolving science. Five stars!

Very Informative!
This book has provided great insight into the techniques of forensic science.It is quite obviously written by an expert in the field who has seen many, many cases.No doubt that a reader will learn vast knowledge of the subject.

The Crime Scene:How Forensic Science Works
Great introductory book to the science of forensics.The authors have written a concise and readable text that will speak to those who are considering a career in forensics, high school and college students who need an overview of forensic science--what it is, what it involves and what an individual needs to get there and to lay people who are just curious about the area of forensics.The format is interesting and filled with much information.This is a good read! ... Read more

Product Description

Written and edited by the most respected authorities in forensic nursing and forensic sciences, this new edition provides the tools and concepts you need to collect evidence that is admissible in court, determine the significance of that evidence, and provide accurate, reliable testimony while administering high-quality patient care. Now in full color throughout, it remains the most comprehensive, highly illustrated text of its kind.

Product Description

A laboratory companion to Forensic Science: An Introduction to Scientific and Investigative Techniques and other undergraduate texts, Forensic Science Laboratory Manual and Workbook, Third Edition provides a plethora of basic, hands-on experiments that can be completed with inexpensive and accessible instrumentation, making this an ideal workbook for non-science majors and an excellent choice for use at both the high school and college level.

This revised edition of a bestselling lab manual provides numerous experiments in odontology, anthropology, archeology, chemistry, and trace evidence. The experiments cover tests involving body fluid, soil, glass, fiber, ink, and hair. The book also presents experiments in impression evidence, such as fingerprints, bite marks, footwear, and firearms, and it features digital and traditional photography and basic microscopy.

All of the experiments incorporate practical elements to facilitate the learning process. Students must apply the scientific method of reasoning, deduction, and problem-solving in order to complete the experiments successfully and attain a solid understanding of fundamental forensic science. Each of the 39 chapters features a separate experiment and includes teaching goals, offers the requisite background knowledge needed to conduct the experiments, and lists the required equipment and supplies. The book is designed for a cooperative learning setting in which three to five students comprise a group. Using the hands-on learning techniques provided in this manual, students will master the practical application of their theoretical knowledge of forensics.

Product Description
Using case studies and amazing digital imagery to show how science helps uncover the truth about how crimes were committed and who carried them out, this fact-filled guide explains the investigative powers of forensic science. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Another great book for research.
I have really enjoyed this book. If you a writer and need research this is a great book.

Lesa Trapp The Odd Mind Radio host

Good book for reference
This is not a textbook like Criminalistics but for quick reference and going through a few scenarios, it works for me.

Solid primer for the non-professional
The ulimate guide to forensic science is well written , easy to understand informative for both individuals with a general interest in the topic and also for young people wishing to understand a career in forensic science.It is strictly a primer, as are most books in the colorful DK line.As such, it is a book that anyone can pick up to learn a general outline on many topics without being weighed down with too much technical information. A good basic book for the non-professional.

Crime Scene
This was a fantastic book. It had lots of case studies and heaps of glossy, colour diagrams, which made the text very easy to understand. It was technical yet very easy to understand and it was very detailed. A must read for all those interested in forensi science.

The illustrated pamphlet on criminal investigations
This book's target audience is the Hardy Boys mystery crowd. While every page is filled with colorful photographs and great looking illustrations, the depth of information conveyed is extremely thin. While the scope of the material is broad, covering crimes from homicide to cybercrime, you won't learn much about any real criminal investigation beyond what you'd learn from your average dime store crime novel series.

As a reader-friendly overview, it's fine. If, for instance, you happen to be a casual citizen who wants to get a general idea about what police investigators do, or you're an 8th grader looking for material for a Middle School research assignment, this might be an ideal book on the subject. The writing is easy to understand and again, there are lots of great looking pictures and illustrations (though some of them are a tad graphic).

However, if you are a member of the law enforcement community or some other kind of professional investigator, you aren't going to get much out of this title. Look elsewhere for a true reference book on Crime Scene work. ... Read more

Product Description
Written by authors with close to one hundred years of forensic experience combined, this introductory text features comprehensive coverage of the types of forensic work done by crime laboratories for criminal cases and by private examiners for civil cases. The book’s unifying vision of the role of forensic science in the justice system and of the role of the professional forensic scientist is clearly introduced in the first two chapters and reinforced throughout the text. Each chapter discusses a key case in the field and references other "real world" applications of the techniques described. The text’s premise is that being a scientist is not required for understanding and using forensic science, but that a greater understanding of science lends itself to better use of the techniques of forensic science. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Perfect!
The book was new when I order it.So it came in perfect condition, and the shipping was fast!Didn't have to worry that I wasn't going to get my book too late for my class.

Never received the product.Have yet to receive an answer from Amazon A to Z guarantee
I never received this product from Gifts R Us.I contacted Amazon with a promise from them to have the issue resolved within 3 - 5 business days.Have yet to hear from them.I believe it has been six business days. ... Read more

Product Description
Praise for The Science of Sherlock Holmes

"Holmes is, first, a great detective, but he has also proven to be a great scientist, whether dabbling with poisons, tobacco ash, or tire marks. Wagner explores this fascinating aspect of his career by showing how his investigations were grounded in the cutting-edge science of his day, especially the emerging field of forensics.... Utterly compelling."
—Otto Penzler, member of the Baker Street Irregulars and proprietor of The Mysterious Bookshop

"E. J. Wagner demonstrates that without the work of Sherlock Holmes and his contemporaries, the CSI teams would be twiddling their collective thumbs. Her accounts of Victorian crimes make Watson's tales pale! Highly recommended for students of the Master Detective."
—Leslie S. Klinger, Editor, The New Annotated Sherlock Holmes

"In this thrilling book, E. J. Wagner has combined her considerable strengths in three disciplines to produce a work as compelling and blood-curdling as the best commercial fiction. This is CSI in foggy old London Town. Chilling, grim fun."
—John Westermann, author of Exit Wounds and Sweet Deal

"I am recommending this delightful work to all of my fellow forensic scientists.... Bravo, Ms. Wagner!"
—John Houde, author of Crime Lab: A Guide for Nonscientists

"A fabulously interesting read. The book traces the birth of the forensic sciences to the ingenuity of Sherlock Holmes. A wonderful blend of history, mystery, and whodunit."
—Andre Moenssens, Douglas Stripp Professor of Law Emeritus, University of Missouri at Kansas City, and coauthor of Scientific Evidence in Civil and Criminal Cases ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

A great book!
A long-time fan of Sherlock Holmes, and having read the Cannon several times, I always had an appreciation for The Great Detective's appearances in film and new books. This book, with its analysis of forensic science is a must have for any true fan of Mr. Holmes.

Other highly recommended reading is the new release of EW Hornung's classic The Crime Doctor. Though not the equal to Sherlock Holmes, Doctor John Dollar is perhaps the first fictional sleuth to use forensic science to combat crime.

Forensic Science in the Victorian Era
Sherlock Holmes and his times form the main theme around which the early developments in forensic science are presented in this highly entertaining and informative book. The period covered is mainly from about the mid-nineteenth to the mid-twentieth centuries, but concentrates mainly on the latter part of the Victorian era. Advances in various disciplines within forensic science are discussed as are many early cases in which these new developments were used and occasionally misused. The writing style is friendly, authoritative and quite engaging. But in particular, the author's very witty prose makes this book doubly enjoyable. General readers who love good mysteries will not be disappointed here, but forensic science buffs, as well as Sherlock Holmes fans, would likely savor this wonderful book the most.

Entertaining Retrospections
The author is a crime historian, a lecturer, and a teller of suspense stories. E.J. Wagner did write about the "True Cases Solved by Conan Doyle" (p.viii). This book uses Sherlock Holmes stories to discuss forensic sciences during the Victorian Age (p.ix). The 'Bibliography' lists a wide collection of books in English (pp.218-233).

Chapter 1 notes that 19th century France and Germany led the way in examining unexplained deaths (p.4). Rigor mortis, algor mortis, and livor mortis could estimate the time of death (p.5). Techniques in post mortem examination were refined (p.6). Chapter 2 is about "Black Dogs", a sign of impending death. [Do people still believe the howling of a dog at night signifies a death?] Chapter 3 discusses insects and their effects on corpses. This varies according to climate and geographical area. Human DNA profiles could be obtained from maggots that fed on a cadaver (p.39). Chapter 4 tells of poisons and the developing science of toxicology in the 19th century. Chapter 5 describes the use of disguises by a detective. Vidocq is used as an example. Hans Gross tells how to test for pretended deafness (p.71). Chapter 6 tells the stories of some famous Victorian crimes. One miscarriage of justice was corrected by the efforts of A. Conan Doyle. Could a dog eat a murder weapon (p.90)?

Chapter 7 discusses the problem of accurately identifying an individual. There is the famous identity case of the Tichbourne Claimant (p.94), which showed the unreliability of eyewitness testimony. Alphonse Bertillon invented the first scientific method for identifying criminals. Fingerprints were used in China for centuries before their adoption in Victorian times (p.102). Edmond Locard found how fingerprints could be forged (p.107). Chapter 8 reports the science of ballistics in the 19th century. Microphotographic comparison of the test and murder bullets date from 1898. The failure to convict a murderer eventually led to more murders (p.131). Chapter 9 tells of identification by footprints, shod and unshod. Footprint evidence is rarely used today (paved sidewalks?).

Chapter 10 discusses the importance of trace evidence in criminalistics (p.147). The importance of subtle trace evidence has increased with the ability to detect it. Chapter 11 deals with the examination of questioned documents. Handwriting comparison is not an exact science (p.167). Chapter 12 tells of the tests for blood. The method of spectrum analysis was used as early as 1864 (p.176). Blood types were discovered by 1900, and identifying human blood in 1901 (p.186). Chapter 13 discusses the various theories of why some people commit crimes. Myths and folk tales influenced people's thinking. Legends exist today, and innocents suffer (p.212). An opinion from a scientist is dangerous if it is accepted on faith ("ipse dixit"),

A Splendid Contribution
With all of the forests that have been destroyed in providing paper for the many studies of Sherlock Holmes, it would be easy to think that nothing new could be said about the Great Detective. In THE SCIENCE OF SHERLOCK HOLMES, E.J. Wagner splendidly proves this is not the case. With the recent interest in forensics provided by programs like CSI, and the rising numbers of characters based on Sherlock Holmes (HOUSE, MONK, Robert Goren of LAW AND ORDER: CRIMINAL INTENT, etc.), a book detailing the science behind Holmes' cases could easily have became a piece of exploitation. Instead, Wagner offers careful, intelligent, and well-written analysis. This is one of the best Sherlockian studies in several years--actually, one that should join the ranks of the best of all Sherlockian studies.

Patcat

For the Love of Science of Sherlock
This book is a shining example of excellence, an A. Author E.J. Wagner's absolute command of the facts, crisp summaries of the most famous cases, her irony and subtle sarcasm -- I am very, very impressed. And in this genre, I am a hanging judge.

To be honest, I had reservations when I first heard about this book. Sure, there was plenty of excited murmuring among the die-hards in the Holmesian set. But many recent historic crime titles that took on topics of broad scope just absolutely flunked the quiz. As an attorney who has studied historic true crime for longer than I care to relay, I'm a very tough audience for an encyclopedic treatment of the subject. Check out my review of "Homicide: 100 years" and you'll see just one example of an author that butchered a promising premise.

But E.J. Wagner does not disappoint. If the Science of Sherlock Holmes contains any factual errors, I was hard-pressed to spot a one of them. In Wagners quite capable hands, the science, the real mysteries, and the fiction are woven together seamlessly. Wagner fills her early history of forensic science with larger-than-life characters and bizarre murder cases, from "the dark delights of the Borden mystery" to the famous Dreyfus affair, Charles Bravo case, Dr. Crippen, Hauptmann, Jack the Ripper, the Tichborne scandal, Constance Kent, and so on. Many of the interesting cases she mentions are new even to me. And she relays these stories in delightful prose -- I was often reminded of the crisp wit of my all-time favorite crime writer Edmund L. Pearson, and few other authors have ever so reminded me.

She also explains the earliest advances in forensic science -- but doesn't leave out such faux pas as phrenology. And there's Sherlock Holmes in large doses. It's no wonder the book has received glowing review after glowing review after glowing review.

A huge bibliography of Holmes titles and classic true crime books adds even more value to this book. I can't remember ever seeing such a comprehensive bibliography of the best historic crime titles. It would suffice as a "must get" list for a librarian looking to build a respectable collection of the all-time best in true crime. (I plan to photocopy it and give it to my husband in lieu of a Christmas list.)

Anyone with the remotest interest in Holmes, true crime, history, or science would enjoy The Science of Sherlock Holmes. Anyone who wants to write historical mysteries ought to memorize it before putting one word on paper. And anyone who finishes it may well be inspired to reread Conan Doyle with a whole new appreciation for the logician and his role in the development of the incredible systems of crime detection existing today.
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