The Right Bite: Dentists as Detectives (24/7: Science Behind the Scenes: Forensics)
With lots of gruesome detail, this slim title in the 24/7 Science behind the Scenes: Forensic Files series uses true-life cases to bring close how forensic dentists identify corpses by their teeth or bite marks. The interactive text is very chatty ("Say some forensic dentist needs to identify a victim"), and each double-page spread is filled with screens, boxes, color photos, and bits of information for browsers. Based on interviews with forensic dentists, the book discusses a murder conviction where the criminal left a bite mark on the victim, a plane crash where forensic dentists identified more than 100 victims, and more. Then there is today's headline drama: 87 percent of Asia's recent tsunami victims were identified by forensic dentists, who are now working with Katrina victims. A final section looks at tools and equipment, including the use of digital imaging. The "gross stuff" will draw readers, who will also enjoy the combination of science, disaster, and up-to-date detective work.Hazel RochmanCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.