Editorials
Children's Literature -
Forensic science in crime solving is becoming more important and is evolving every day. Television programs, games, and movies revolve around the subject, and the general public is now hooked on the science of crime solving. Scientist Kenneth Rainis has given budding forensic scientists an excellent place to begin with the basics. He whets appetites by beginning with true crime case studies that were solved using forensic techniques, and then moves into hands-on experiments that allow young scientists to use similar techniques in solving sample cases. The scientific method is definitely encouraged, and readers are shown examples of how to gather information, study it, document findings, and then use the information to support these findings. A project analysis is also provided to encourage discussion of results and offer solutions. This book is like having a personal teacher or taking a class. In fact, if the series "Forensic Science Projects," of which this book is a part, is as detailed as this one book, it would be excellent for a forensic science unit for middle school or even high science class.School Library Journal
Gr 4-8 - The appeal of these volumes is in their invitation to become a scientific investigator and their concise instructions on how to simulate some of the tasks involved. Readers are provided with succinct accounts of cases and learn, through meticulous examples, the precise method used in solving them, such as blood-spatter analysis or varying ways of detecting forgery. The author urges the creation of case books and provides clear and accurate charts, photographs, graphs, and lists as aids in the process. Emphasis on the scientific method gives the books a strong sense of validity. The frequent suggestion of teaming with a partner creates a Holmes-and-Watson feel. Hand-printed bold headings guide readers to discussions of investigative techniques and required equipment. Ron Fridell's Forensic Science(Lerner, 2006), intended for the same audience, is more discussion than invitation, and David Owen's Police Lab: How Forensic Science Tracks Down and Convicts Criminals(Firefly, 2002) is an overview with case histories. Rainis's books are substantive and will circulate because of positive word of mouth from those who use them in their own quasi-CSI experiments.-Sheila Fiscus, Our Lady of Peace School, Erie, PA
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