When it comes to true crime, forensics and all things associated, I am a bit of an addict. I have always been intrigued with this facet of the human psyche and when I was given the opportunity to read and review The Real World of a Forensic Scientist: Renowned Experts Reveal What it Takes to Solve Crimes I was thrilled and ready to delve right in. Divided into several chapters which focus on different aspects of what is gone through to solve even the most heinous and thought to be well covered up crimes, readers will learn in-depth information about fingerprint evidence, firearms evidence, trace evidence, chemical evidence, DNA, forensic drug analysis and toxicology as well as learn about the science of forensics through a historical perspective and viewpoint.
When I began reading, however, I was disappointed to discover the book is very legal-centered and resource oriented. Meaning that it would make an excellent book for those researching material on forensics and for those needing technical information on such topics mentioned above. However as a "curious" sort of read, more for entertainment and learning about forensics in a not-so-formulaic way, The Real World of a Forensic Scientist is not the greatest choice, at least in my personal opinion. Parts are interesting and intriguing, and learning more about the personal life and career of the well-known Dr. Henry C. Lee is also interesting.
Overall, however, I found this to be a rather dry read. I also want to mention that along with much detailed information, there are several photographs spread throughout the book, as well as a center collection of colored photographs taken from true crime scenes, including the Elizabeth Smart kidnapping case, the Kennedy assassination, and a portion of the ransom note sent to Charles Lindbergh after the kidnapping of his son, and times during Dr. Lee's life and investigative teams.
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