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Best Books on Forensic Science

Unlock the secrets of forensic science with these top books that made the cut on multiple respected blogs and journals, presenting the intricate world of crime scene investigation and analysis.

Recommendations from 23 articles, Mara Wilson, Holly Brockwell, Raychelle Burks.
26 books on the list
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Forensics book cover
Forensics
What Bugs, Burns, Prints, DNA, and More Tell Us About Crime
Val McDermid - 2015-07-07 (first published in 2014)
Goodreads Rating
Explore the fascinating world of forensic science with this book. Author Val McDermid delves into the history of the field and introduces the top-level professionals who use it to serve justice. With original interviews and firsthand experiences, you'll discover how forensic scientists can unlock mysteries from the past and even solve crimes today. Learn how tiny pieces of evidence, from maggots to DNA traces, can be used to catch a killer. This book takes you on a journey from the earliest days of forensics to the modern science of today.
Criminalistics book cover
Criminalistics
An Introduction to Forensic Science
Richard Saferstein - 2007-01-01
Goodreads Rating
This book introduces readers to the technology of modern crime labs for those who are not scientists. It uses clear writing and case studies to capture the energy and enthusiasm of forensic science investigations. The meaning and role of probability in interpreting the evidential significance of scientifically evaluated evidence are discussed, and a new chapter on forensic biometrics is included in this updated edition. This best-selling text is clear and understandable to a broad range of students, including those without a scientific background.
All that Remains book cover
All that Remains
A Renowned Forensic Scientist on Death, Mortality, and Solving Crimes
Sue Black Dbe Frse - 2018-04-19
Goodreads Rating
A renowned forensic scientist and anthropologist delves into the reality of death and mortality in this compelling book. Part memoir, part primer on identifying human remains, and part introduction to the subject of death in our lives, this book cuts through hype and cliché to provide a clear-eyed guide to a subject that touches us all. Using key cases, the author reveals how forensic science has developed and what it has taught her about human nature. All That Remains is a must-read for fans of true crime, murder mysteries, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the reality of death.
Recommended by
Holly Brockwell
Death's Acre book cover
Death's Acre
Inside the Legendary Forensic Lab the Body Farm Where the Dead Do Tell Tales
William Bass - 2004-10-05 (first published in 2003)
Goodreads Rating
Explore the world of forensic anthropology with this fascinating book by renowned scientist Dr. Bill Bass. From his groundbreaking creation of The Body Farm to his investigations into the infamous Lindbergh kidnapping, learn about his most intriguing cases and insights on the science of death.
Practical Homicide Investigation book cover
Practical Homicide Investigation
Tactics, Procedures, and Forensic Techniques, Fifth Edition (Practical Aspects of Criminal and Forensic Investigations)
Vernon J. Geberth - 2006-02-08 (first published in 1982)
Goodreads Rating
"Practical Homicide Investigation: Tactics, Procedures, and Forensic Techniques" is the definitive resource for homicide investigators. This book covers every aspect of a homicide investigation, from initial police response to forensic techniques and everything in between. This fifth edition includes new chapters on the latest DNA technology and equivocal death investigations, as well as updates that reflect modern investigative procedures. With over 920 photos and illustrations, this must-have resource provides the most vital information needed by detectives and police investigators responsible for cases in violent and sudden death.
"Revolutionize Criminal Justice with Forensic Science: A Game-Changing Guide" This book offers a fresh perspective on criminal investigation and trials, aiming to bring about true justice with the use of modern and ethical forensic science. Bid farewell to outdated, cruel and illegal evidential tools, as this guide provides invaluable insights into the latest technology and techniques in the field.
Forensic Science book cover
Forensic Science
A Very Short Introduction
Jim Fraser - 2010-04-05
Goodreads Rating
Explore the captivating world of forensic science through this Very Short Introduction. Delving into the use of forensic science in criminal investigations, it covers the techniques used to recover evidence, how crime scenes are managed, and the challenges of presenting scientific evidence in court. Written by an expert in the field, this book offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of forensic science and its crucial role in serving the criminal justice system.
I'll Be Gone in the Dark book cover
I'll Be Gone in the Dark
One Woman's Obsessive Search for the Golden State Killer
Michelle McNamara - 2018-02-27
Goodreads Rating
This true crime book delves into the haunting story of the elusive serial rapist turned murderer who terrorized California during the 70s and 80s. Written by a gifted journalist who died tragically while investigating the case, I'll Be Gone in the Dark offers an atmospheric snapshot of a moment in American history and a chilling account of a criminal mastermind and the wreckage he left behind. A modern true crime classic hailed for its originality and compelling narrative.
Recommended by
Mara Wilson
Stiff book cover
Stiff
The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers
Mary Roach - 2021-08-31 (first published in 2003)
Goodreads Rating
Experience the strange and hilarious journey of cadavers postmortem in this engrossing exploration of science's boldest strides and weirdest undertakings throughout history. Join Mary Roach as she delves into the good deeds of cadavers over the past two thousand years, uncovering the fascinating story of our bodies beyond life.
The Poisoner's Handbook book cover
The Poisoner's Handbook
Murder and the Birth of Forensic Medicine in Jazz Age New York
Deborah Blum - 2010-02-18
Goodreads Rating
Delve into the hazardous world of poison and crime in Jazz Age New York City with The Poisoner's Handbook. Follow the groundbreaking work of forensic scientists Charles Norris and Alexander Gettler as they investigate and solve countless cases involving lethal substances. But it's not just murderers that pose a threat, as toxins can be found everywhere in modern life. This captivating true crime tale is equal parts history, science, and suspense.
Recommended by
Raychelle Burks
Postmortem by Patricia Cornwell
Forensics For Dummies by Douglas P. Lyle
Gunshot Wounds by Dimaio
Forensic Pathology by Dominick Dimaio
Forensic Science by Stuart H. James
Practical Crime Scene Processing and Investigation by Ross M. Gardner, Donna Krouskup
Spitz and Fisher's Medicolegal Investigation of Death by Werner U. Spitz, Francisco J. Diaz
Simpson's Forensic Medicine, 14th Edition by Jason Payne-James
Principles of Forensic Toxicology by Barry S. Levine
Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States by National Research Council
Carved in Bone by Jefferson Bass
Deja Dead by Kathy Reichs
The Science of Murder by Carla Valentine
18 Tiny Deaths by Bruce Goldfarb
Murder and the Making of English CSI by Ian Burney
Legal Medicine in History by Michael Clark, Catherine Crawford