BOOK REVIEW: Bodies of Evidence - How Forensic Science Solves Crimes by Brian Innes & Lucy Doncaster
I used to love Science and still do to this day. The innovations brought about by Science is something to give serious thought to. In the early 2000s, crime dramas like CSI and the like were really hot for their portrayal of crime investigation techniques. However, did you know that most of the cases portrayed were actually real-life cases and the forensic investigation used in the scenes were actual techniques?
About a month back, I came across this interesting book which shed light on forensic science along with the cases in which it was used in. Criminal investigators have learned how to interpret vital testimony that is written in the language of fingerprints and flakes of skin, gradients of teeth and bone, splashes of blood, flecks of paint and traces of chemicals, a splinter of glass or a uniquely striated bullet.
in the modern era, this formidable Science has helped bring to justice some of the most notorious, devious and dangerous criminals in history. Some of these include accounts of political assassins, con men, sexual serial killers and more sick criminals.
Besides that, this book also evaluates Science's contribution through the key areas of toxicology, fingerprinting, facial reconstruction, forensic ballistics and DNA analysis. Illustrated throughout with 200 photographs, this book is an accessible, comprehensive guide to modern forensic investigative techniques.
I loved this book to bits, which lead me to get a copy for my close friend who is a graduate in forensics herself. Being a truly riveting read, it made me understand that all crimes CAN be deciphered via forensics, though duration of results may vary from case to case. Well-explained, it's easy for a beginner in forensics to understand terms and processes behind this special branch of Science. To me, this book is a perfect study addition for anyone who is in the field of forensics or even just someone who's interested like me to understand how the Science world works in various aspects.
Only warning: don't end up being a serial killer by imitating any of the famous perpetrators in this book. Forensic Science might just sniff you out or maybe I will...
