The Encyclopedia of Forensic Science

by Brian Lane

New advances in technology combined with soaring crime rates have made forensic science an increasingly important factor in crime detection. In this comprehensive study, Brian Lane looks at the different techniques of forensic science and demonstrates how they are used by means of real-life case studies.

Most books on forensic science tend to fall into two main categories: either they are textbooks for the scientifically educated and trained, or they are popular compilations for anecdotes and stories, seasoned with scientific information from the textbooks. This encyclopedia offers something different. It demystifies some of the minor miracles that are occurring in scientific detection today and places them in a historical context. Drawn from many sources and the expert knowledge of numerous consultants, the book provides a wealth of information on subjects from Acid to Voiceprints.

Genres: Science, Nonfiction, True Crime, Crime, Reference

519 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1992

Reviews

[Suz · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my all-time favourite books. While a little out-dated now - the book was published in 1992 - due to advancements in (then rapidly evolving) sciences such as the mapping of the human genome, mitochondrial DNA and retinal scanning, thanks to its many fascinating historic case studies, examinations of arcane and accepted police investigative practices, broad range of methodologies and forensic profiles, the book continues to provide an enthralling and still-informative read. I can only hope the author considers publishing an updated version.

[Ravi Singh · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is what it says and is an easy to use manual for the writer of fiction or the professional. The section on knife wounds was particularly clear and interesting.

[Mia Ferraioli · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review will be relatively short, but there's little to say about it. This is a reread; I read it once before when I was trying to go to college to be a forensic scientist. . rereading it now while still in love with forensic science felt nostalgic.

As for the actual review now, it's what it says in the title: It's an encyclopedia that gives a general overview of the technology, methodology, and case studies of the study of forensic science. It's a good and informative read, and the case studies that the book gives also are fascinating. Some information may need to be updated due to when it came out. However, it's still interesting to see what it was like in its earlier years until it was written around the 1990s. As many reviews have mentioned, it's informational and helpful for professionals and fiction writers. And I will also add enthusiasts who want to learn more—5 out of 5 stars from me.

[Mia · Rating 4 out of 5]

For a forensics encyclopaedia published in 2004, this is pretty decent! Of course we have made leaps and bounds in terms of technology and method since this was published, but it’s still a pretty bloody good (no pun intended) overview of a lot of aspects of forensic sciences. I like how it acknowledges subjects such as phrenology which have long been considered pseudoscience, as it provides some added fun historical context. Probably not great to rely on nowadays as gospel due to the ever evolving nature of the subject, but absolutely a good start and a good read with lots of interesting case examples.

[Katrina · Rating 5 out of 5]

As others have said, it's a great read for either professionals or fiction writers. The only 'downside' is that some information is outdated however this point is moot if you write about crimes set in the past.

[Krissy Dougherty · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was an intense read, but very informative and a bit outdated since advances have come a long way since then. It's worth the read that's for sure!

[Nicki Kendall · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting look into forensic science in its earlier years

[Justin Rees · Rating 4 out of 5]

Though obviously a dense read seeing as it's an encyclopedia, this book is extremely informative. Giving a general overview of technology,methodology, and case studies of the forensic world, this is a must for any budding detective or forensic scientist.