Criminalistics: An Introduction to Forensic Science (College Edition) (9th Edition)

Written by a very well-known authority in forensic science, this book introduces the non-scientific reader to the field of forensic science. Through applications to criminal investigations, clear explanations of the techniques, and the abilities and limitations of modern crime labs, Criminalistics covers the comprehensive realm of forensics. The book strives to make the technology of the modern crime laboratory clear to the non-scientist. Combining case stories with applicable technology, Criminalistics captures the excitement of forensic science investigations. Familiarizes readers with the most current technologies in forensic analysis. KEY Aims at making the subject of forensic science comprehensible to a wide variety of readers who are planning on being aligned with the forensic science profession.

This book is written in an professional manner and clearly explains various forensic tests that are conducted upon evidence.

I loaned this book to a 11 year old child - who was intrested in this area and he had no problem underdstanding the basic facts and information presented.

Saferstein is an excellent author who has an uncanny abilty to write technical material in a clear and concise manner.

I recommend this book to students, professors, and practitioners in the criminal justice field.


A Great Introduction to Forensic Science!   May 13, 2003
Kristi Ahlers (Illinois)
33 out of 33 found this review helpful

As textbooks go this is without a doubt the best one that I have ever used. This book manages to explain complicated things such as DNA, and other techniques, and tests that are used during the course of an investigation in simple terms that are easy to understand. Especially if you are new to the idea of Forensic Science. Simple explanations, with colored pictures, diagrams, and case studies help show how different tests, evidence collection, and other aspects of Forensic's are used to help "catch" the bad guy. Again easy to read and understand. Well worth the purchase, you will learn a lot!


Criminalistics: An Introduction to Forensic Science   June 7, 2002
Joseph Pica (Gulfport, MS USA)
43 out of 47 found this review helpful

This is without any doubt, in my opinion, the best book ever
written on criminalistics. Not there are not any other great books on the subject, however this is the greatest. It is suprisingly comprehendible considering the complexity of some of the topics involved. The photographs and drawings are crystal clear.
In addition I especially like the test at the end of each section that I feel is necessary to help the reader realize his knowledge,(or lack of knowledge) of that section.


No Forensic Scientist Should Be Without A Copy!   December 13, 1998
15 out of 16 found this review helpful

This book provides an enormous amount of information that is useful for both the experienced forensic scientist and the student who is just starting in the field.


I loved it!   August 21, 2007
A. Hasty
3 out of 3 found this review helpful

I'm homeschooled and wanted to do Forensic Science as an elective. This book is written in a clear, understandable manner and is very informative. I liked how there was a chapter summary, review questions, and a case reading after every chapter. I definietly recomend this book if you want to use it as a text book or even just a good read.