Books matching: forensic science
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- #1
'The Killer of Little Shepherds: A True Crime Story and the Birth of Forensic Science' by Douglas Starr tells the parallel stories of Joseph Vacher, a violent serial killer in 19th century France, and Dr. Alexandre Lacassagne, a pioneering forensic scientist. Vacher's gruesome murders and Lacassagne's efforts to apply early forensic science to convict criminals are alternated in chapters, creating a compelling narrative akin to Erik Larsen's style of storytelling. delves into the historical context of forensic science in the 1800s, exploring the methods used in autopsies, the criminal theories of the time, and the challenges faced by law enforcement in solving crimes without modern technology.
On a drizzly spring evening in 1893, in the French provincial city of Besançon, nineteen-year-old Louise Barant was walking along the riverside promenade when she crossed paths with a man wearing the ... - #2
'Beyond the Body Farm' by Jon Jefferson, William M. Bass delves into the world of forensic science, focusing on the cases from the legendary Body Farm at The University of Tennessee. Dr. Bill Bass shares the cases that led to the creation of the Body Farm and the innovative forensic techniques developed through these cases. The writing style is fast-paced and accessible, making it an engaging read even for those without a background in forensic science. provides an in-depth look at the beginning of forensics, showcasing teamwork and emerging technology that have made previously unsolvable cases solvable.
As fans of the television series CSI know, death scenes can capture a wealth of detail about what happens in the instant when human life is snuffed out – even, I can say with certainty, when that inst... - #3
'The Poisoner's Handbook: Murder and the Birth of Forensic Medicine in Jazz Age New York' by Deborah Blum is a compelling historical account of the early years of forensic science in New York City during the 1920s and 1930s. The book delves into the misuse of poison, both by criminals and the government during Prohibition, highlighting the research on toxicology by Charles Norris and Alexander Gettler. Blum's writing style is fast-paced and engaging, weaving together murder investigations, poisons, chemistry, and the birth of forensic medicine into a fascinating narrative that explores the dark side of Jazz Age New York.
IN LATE JANUARY 1926, a snow-sprayed wind glittering around him, a reporter from the New York Times shivered on a certain street corner, the one an irate letter writer had described as the noisiest in... Forensics: What Bugs, Burns, Prints, DNA and More Tell Us About Crime by Val McDermid is a comprehensive exploration of forensic science techniques used in solving crimes over the ages. McDermid's writing style is engaging and informative, delving into various disciplines such as arson investigation, entomology, autopsies, DNA analysis, and more. The book is a mix of historical accounts, practical applications, and evolving technologies in forensics, presented in a way that appeals to both crime fiction fans and readers interested in the science behind crime solving.
‘It’s usually pretty dark, smelly, uncomfortable and physically demanding. The days are long and you come home filthy and stinking of burnt plastic. There’s nothing glamorous about it. But it is fasci...- #5
'18 Tiny Deaths: The Untold Story of Frances Glessner Lee and the Invention of Modern Forensics' by Bruce Goldfarb is a biography that delves into the life of Frances Glessner Lee, a wealthy woman who revolutionized the field of forensic science. It explores how Frances used her wealth and influence to fund the development of forensic science, including setting up the first Department of Legal Medicine at Harvard University. The narrative follows Frances' journey from her privileged upbringing to her creation of miniature crime scene models known as Nutshells, which were used to train investigators in observational skills. also sheds light on the challenges Frances faced in a male-dominated society and her significant contributions to the field of forensics.
Goldfarb's writing style in '18 Tiny Deaths' has been praised for its thorough research and engaging storytelling. Readers appreciated the detailed exploration of Frances Glessner Lee's life, her motivations, and the historical context surrounding the development of forensic science in the United States. is described as a compelling blend of biography and history, offering insights into Frances' determination, her impact on criminal investigation practices, and the evolution of forensics as a discipline.
SEVENTEEN PATHOLOGISTS AND MEDICAL EXAMINERS, all dressed in dark suits and neckties, sat around a long table in a wood-paneled conference room on the third floor of Building E-1 of Harvard Medical Sc... 'American Sherlock: Murder, Forensics, and the Birth of American CSI' by Kate Winkler Dawson delves into the life and work of Edward Oscar Heinrich, a pioneering figure in forensic science during the early 20th century. Through a blend of true crime stories and biographical elements, the book explores Heinrich's innovative forensic techniques and the impact of his work on criminal investigations. Readers are taken on a journey through Heinrich's personal struggles, professional rivalries, and groundbreaking contributions to the field of forensics, shedding light on the intersection of law and science in the courtroom.
The narrative of 'American Sherlock' is structured around Heinrich's involvement in various high-profile murder cases, showcasing his meticulous investigative methods and dedication to solving crimes. Kate Winkler Dawson's writing style captivates readers by offering a detailed account of Heinrich's career, his relationships with colleagues, and the challenges he faced as a forensic expert. The book not only provides a historical perspective on the evolution of forensic science but also prompts reflections on the reliability of expert witnesses and the complexities of presenting scientific evidence in court.
He dipped into this bottle or that, drawing out a few drops of each with his glass pipette, and finally brought a test-tube containing a solution over to the table. . . . “You come at a crisis, Watson...- #7
"Deja Dead" by Kathy Reichs follows the story of forensic anthropologist Dr. Temperance Brennan as she investigates a series of gruesome murders in Montreal, Canada. Despite facing skepticism from the police, Brennan believes the cases are connected and that a serial killer is on the loose. As she delves deeper into the investigation, she not only puts herself in danger but also risks the lives of her loved ones. The writing style of the book is described as detailed, with a mix of forensic science, regionalisms specific to Quebec, and a fast-paced plot that keeps readers on edge.
IWASN’T THINKING ABOUT THE MAN WHO’D BLOWN HIMSELF UP. Earlier I had. Now I was putting him together. Two sections of skull lay in front of me, and a third jutted from a sand-filled stainless steel bo... - #8
"The Body Farm" in the Scarpetta series by Patricia Cornwell revolves around Dr. Kay Scarpetta, a forensic expert, investigating the murder of an 11-year-old girl, potentially connected to a notorious serial killer named Temple Gault. The story unfolds as Scarpetta, along with her team including Pete Marino and Benton Wesley, delves into the case, facing personal and professional challenges along the way. The plot intertwines complex relationships between the characters, detailed crime scene investigations, and a mix of medical and forensic science, keeping the readers engaged with its twists and turns.
On the sixteenth of October, shadowy deer crept to the edge of dark woods beyond my window as the sun peeked over the cover of the night. Plumbing above and below me groaned, and one by one other room...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Scarpetta ) - #9
In "Postmortem" by Patricia Cornwell, the story follows Dr. Kay Scarpetta, a medical examiner in Richmond, Virginia, investigating a series of brutal stranglings in the city. As Scarpetta delves into the case, she faces challenges from within her own department while trying to unmask the brilliant serial killer behind the gruesome crimes. The book offers a mix of suspense, forensic research, and character development, set in a time when technology was just being introduced to the workplace.
The plot revolves around Scarpetta's use of forensic evidence to solve the crimes, with the only clue being a lingering smell of maple syrup at the crime scenes. The book keeps readers guessing until the very last page, providing a well-paced and gripping crime drama that showcases the author's attention to detail and ability to create compelling characters in a realistic setting.
The relentless downpour, which began at dawn, beat the lilies to naked stalks, and blacktop and sidewalks were littered with leaves. There were small rivers in the streets, and newborn ponds on playin... 'Written in Bone: Hidden Stories in What We Leave Behind' by Sue Black delves into the world of forensic anthropology, exploring how human bones can reveal hidden stories about individuals. The book is structured around different parts of the human skeleton, each chapter focusing on a specific area and discussing how it can be analyzed and utilized in real-life investigations. Sue Black, a Forensic Anthropologist, combines scientific knowledge with captivating case studies, engaging readers with a balance of theory and reality. Through her straightforward language and personal insights, she sheds light on the role of forensic anthropology in solving crimes and uncovering the mysteries our bones hold.