Fundamentals of Forensic Science

by Jay A. Siegel and Max M. Houck

Book Overview

Fundamentals of Forensic Science, Second Edition, provides an introduction to the basic principles of forensic science. The book begins at a crime scene and ends in the courtroom.The book is divided into six parts. Part 1 provides an overview of criminal justice and forensic science, covering the basics of crime scene investigation and the nature of evidence. Part 2 discusses analytical tools, including microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, mass...

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0123749891
• ISBN13: 9780123749895
• Release Date: February 2010
• Publisher: Academic Press
• Length: 680 Pages
• Weight: 3.20 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.3" x 7.4" x 9.7"

Customer Reviews

Comprehensive but easy to read

I purchased this book as a requirement for my introduction to forensic science class, which I took in a summer session so it was really condensed. I am not a science buff, but I fully understood all of the concepts presented in the book. Although a little bulky the font is rather large so the reading goes relatively fast. There are quite a bit of illustrations to compound the information provided. But be warned...some of the illustrations are a little graphic in nature! The subject bares that fact. My only complaint is there is no electronic version of the book which means you have to carry to book around if you want to get some reading done in your spare time. Otherwise it's a great buy for anyone looking to break into the field or just has a general interest in the subject. LW

Used for Class

I can't say that I was particularly intrigued but needed this book for a class. It served its purpose.

The Forensic Student's Bible

My daughter, a budding Forensics specialist, asked for this book for her birthday. She was thrilled when she got it, saying that this is a book that her professor had recommended, and that it is a book that you return to throughout your studies. I haven't read it, but she certainly seems happy with it, reading it before she goes to bed! Never thought this would be a book she'd read before she went to bed...

Incredible! A must-have for your reference shelf!

I've gotten a lot of disappointing textbooks for my classes in forensics but this is definately not one of them. It is very clear, well-written, and thorough. It is well organized and that makes it very easy to find things in it. All of the graphics and supplemental information provided throughout the chapters are beneficial and the summaries at the end of each chapter actually do a good job of reviewing and testing your knowledge. Even if you don't need this for a class (like I did) I would definitely recommend getting it to keep as a general reference book.

Fundamentals is easy to read but a wealth of forensic information

Forensic Scientists Max Houck and Jay Siegel have just released a forensic science text which is perfect for beginners but offers much for seasoned scientists. The book's thoroughness is revealed across its 672 pages. Topics include a discussion of criminal justice and forensic science, analytical tools and introductions to biological science, chemical science, and physical science. Forensic science's relationship with law is in the concluding chapter. The work is ideal for introductory forensic students. There are plenty of crime scene photos and diagrams to make the words on the page come to life. The authors do not skimp on technical aspects but make sure that those technical aspects are explained well. Each chapter contains important words in bold. A novice will quickly be drawn into this work but not overwhelmed by it. A knowledgeable professor, interested students, and this book should provide for a successful course. The text will serve also as a quick reference book for forensic science. The book is good for professors, for students, and as a reference. It is a must-have book for all of those who teach forensic science. Daniel W. Phillips III, Ph.D., Assistant Professor Lindsey Wilson College Columbia, Kentucky 42728 phillipsd@lindsey.edu