Trace Evidence

* Reviews *

Welcome to an interesting and well-researched book that is rich in science. With stories about crime scene detectives from the past as well as more recent criminals, the book holds readers interest. Eldridges extensive use of chapter notes introduces the reader to how they are used, how to write them, and how important they are. Readers will learn that the Chinese have used fingerprints for identification since the eighth century. Before the fictional Sherlock Holmes was the real Eugene Francois Vidog, an amazing forensic detective. There have been many forensic scientists who use science (e.g., physics, chemistry, biology) to solve cases. Every part of this book is informative. The author describes how synthetic fibers have different cross sections by instructing readers to visualize spaghetti and feta cheese, because like pasta, fibers come in different shapes. The often difficult concept of population genetics is explained. Readers are encouraged to visualize a persons genes as a toolbox. If we were identical, it would be like we all had hammers in our toolbox and it would be harder to survive. That our toolboxes differ gives us the tools we need for survival. Forensic science has improved because of technological improvements such as Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Short Tandem Repeats (STR). Readers learn how a PCR machine duplicates DNA so small trace samples can be used for identification. STR identifies the small parts of DNA that differs for each person. The likelihood of an identical match from two different people can be as low as one in a quintillion. The many careers in forensic science are briefly identified with corresponding salaries. Because forensic crime-solving is a popular topic, this would be a terrific book for school and public libraries., Children's Literature