Police Lab: How Forensic Science
Tracks Down and Convicts Criminals
by David Owen

    POLICE LAB by David Owen
    Category:  Non-Fiction
    Age Recommendation:  Grades 9+
    Release Date:  10/5/02
    Publisher:  Firefly Books
    Reviewed by:  Jennifer Wardrip, aka "The Genius"
    Rating:  5 Stars


    For those interested in how forensic science works, then POLICE LAB is a must-read.

    Author David Owen presents a great beginning presentation into how forensic science works in regards to
    ballistics, DNA processing, fingerprint evidence, bite marks, tire imprints, and even handwriting analysis -- and how
    they can be used to figure out the person who has committed a crime.  Using more than twenty true-life cases, from
    the death of INXS rocker Michal Hutchence to serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer, Mr. Owen takes us inside the science
    that helped cracked the case.

    Although there are other books that delve deeper into the actual workings of the science behind the science, this is
    a great starting point for teens interested in the forensic field.  Be warned, though -- the book includes several full-
    color photographs of actual dead bodies, which might not be suitable for everyone.  On the other hand, if you're
    planning on a career in the field of forensic science, you might do well to get used to such things now!