The Father of Forensics: The Groundbreaking Cases of Sir Bernard Spilsbury, and the Beginnings of Modern CSI

by Colin Evans

Book Overview

Before there was CSI, there was one man who saw beyond the crime-and into the future of forensic science. His name was Bernard Spilsbury-and, through his use of cutting-edge science, he single-handedly brought criminal investigations into the modern age. Starting out as a young, charismatic physician in early twentieth-century Britain, Spilsbury hit the English justice system-and the front pages-like a cannonball, garnering a reputation as a real-life...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0425210073
• ISBN13: 9780425210079
• Release Date: August 2006
• Publisher: Berkley Publishing Group
• Length: 326 Pages
• Weight: 0.81 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 6.3" x 8.9"
• Age Range: 18 years and up
• Grade Range: Grade 12 and higher

Customer Reviews

Fascinating work on one of the first great forensic scientists

This is a chiefly professional history of the life and work of Sir Bernard Spilsbury, one of the great forensic scientists in English history. When he began his career, forensic science was beginning to develop, but was regarded with skepticism in England. A master of self-presentation, as well as a brilliant scientist, Spilsbury's courtroom appearances, combined with the excellent work of himself and his colleagues, convinced the courts and public of the value of forensic science. Colin Evans focuses on some of his most famous cases. One thing that I particularly appreciated was his notes in which he updated the information. In some cases, for examples, things that could not be tested for then can be detected now. In addition, forensic work has once again fallen out of favor owing to contentious expert-witness testimony. A very interesting read for people interested in forensics, and a good explanation of the care and dedication required for such work. Not so very useful as a personal biography of Spilsbury.

Totally Enjoyable Read!

Evans' writing is very compelling and pushes you easily along the dateline of modern forensic techniques. His storytelling skills are marvelous and I thoroughly enjoyed reading this. I am only part way through and find myself trying to savor every page by reading only a little at a time. I don't want this book to end!

Another Great Book by a Great Author

Colin Evans has written a number of excellent books on forensics and this one is just as much of an edge-of-your-seat page-turner as the others, if not more so. The book's focus is on a subset of the many cases in which Britain's Sir Bernard Spilsbury was involved as the much revered, indeed legendary, forensic pathologist. The main highlights of Spilsbury's life are also included. The author's writing style is as witty as it is engaging, often tongue-in-cheek. The words that he uses to describing these many cases seem to be very carefully selected and put together. But it is much more likely that this excellent style of writing simply comes naturally to this most gifted author; I cannot praise it enough. This book will be indispensable to anyone who enjoys reading well-crafted true crime stories in which forensics plays an important role. Very highly recommended!

Excellent Examination of an Early Forensic Pioneer

I've read accounts of other forensic pathologists at the turn of the century, but this one is easiest to digest. It has a smooth reading style, lays out the crimes in sufficient detail that you can follow the 'plot' and then shows how Spilsbury and his associates helped lay the forensic groundwork for conviction. Cases include such well-known murders as "The Brides in the Bath," among others. Besides the fascination at watching the growth of forensics at the hands of the pioneers (Spilsbury doesn't get all the kudos in this book) you also catch a glimpse of the personal toll exacted by the long hours and hideous conditions. For readers keen to see a glimpse of early forensic technique and the men behind the emerging technology, I highly recommend Evan's informative book.