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lifeonmybookcase's review against another edition
4.0
This was a really engaging look at the history of forensic science, particularly relating to murder cases. I have a good background knowledge in the area, and thought this was very well researched. The historical background was thorough, and went beyond what is mentioned in a lot of other books on the subject. Well written and interesting, I would recommend.
libra17's review against another edition
5.0
This is an excellent book! It is a methodical review of particularly important forensic science methods and cases in which those methods were used (usually for the first or near the first time) and instrumental in solving the case. Most chapters are set up to focus on a particular method (such as blood, trace evidence, or DNA, all of which have chapters), explains what it is, how it works, why it's important, and uses a case to illustrate that importance. Everything is clearly well researched (the sheer amount of historical detail in the cases is incredible), told in a story format, and methodically laid out in such a way that is both easy to understand and interesting. Whether you're truly interested in the topic, or just looking for good criminology read, this is definitely a book that will catch and keep attention.
katec's review
5.0
I really enjoyed the TV show Silent Witness so my Mum bought me this for my birthday after seeing that one of the creators of the show wrote it. It sat on my shelf for a while as I wasn't sure that it was the type of book that I'd really enjoy but when I picked it up I was really glad I did!
The book covers some of the major breakthroughs in forensic science in a way that focuses on the history surrounding the breakthroughs rather than the nitty gritty of the science itself. As someone who hasn't had a science lesson in years I was rather glad of this.
The book covers some of the first major forensic science cases to benefit from the scientific advances discussed such as the use of DNA, fingerprinting and blood typing. This makes the book an enjoyable read as it doesn't feel too much like a non-fiction, purely fact based book because it has some narrative to it.
Overall, I would say that if you're interested in the history of forensic science but aren't necessarily particularly scientifically minded this is an easy and interesting read to start you off!
The book covers some of the major breakthroughs in forensic science in a way that focuses on the history surrounding the breakthroughs rather than the nitty gritty of the science itself. As someone who hasn't had a science lesson in years I was rather glad of this.
The book covers some of the first major forensic science cases to benefit from the scientific advances discussed such as the use of DNA, fingerprinting and blood typing. This makes the book an enjoyable read as it doesn't feel too much like a non-fiction, purely fact based book because it has some narrative to it.
Overall, I would say that if you're interested in the history of forensic science but aren't necessarily particularly scientifically minded this is an easy and interesting read to start you off!
z03l0u's review
3.0
Very informative. Great read for those in the field due to the amount of facts and cases it contains.
sam_griffin's review
4.0
3.5/5
Super interesting but written in a super formulaic way that left something to be desired. Absolutely fascinating topic though
Super interesting but written in a super formulaic way that left something to be desired. Absolutely fascinating topic though
uberbutter's review
3.0
Silent Witnesses takes a look at the history of forensic investigations, including the history (and early cases) dealing with fingerprints, toxicology, and DNA. It was interesting but the writing wasn't great which left me feeling let down.
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