Customer Reviews

An Introduction to Forensic DNA Analysis, Second Edition

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

I have a BS in genetics and biochemistry and am looking to enter into a forensics lab. This book is an EXCELLENT resource for an entry-level criminalist, criminal lawyer, or the non-scientist interested in this topic. It was organized from basic genetics to higher-level interpretation issues and included tons of diagrams, pictures, and relevant case studies. This book did an outstanding job explaining complicated and detailed subject matter in an easy to understand and interesting matter.

As a forensic scientist conducting DNA analysis for a crime laboratory, I'm constantly reviewing the latest literature on the subject. This text by Inman and Rudin is one that I've purchased and will keep on my desk for constant reference. My job requires that I not only conduct the laboratory analyses but also convey the results to a jury of lay individuals. This book bridges the gap between expert and novice and should be in the library of anyone with more than a casual interest in the subject.

As a practicing lawyer who earns a living in the criminal courts, I found this book an excellent and informative guide to this often problematic area. The authors introduce the subject in a way that is easy for the beginner to comprehend, but at the same time include sufficient detail to answer many of the most pressing problems facing a defence team in court.

Having left behind my interest in genetics in order to pursue tax accountancy, I've always been fascinated by accounts of DNA typing. This book provides a wonderful introduction that is accessible to even the novice geneticist like myself. Much of the information Rudin and Inman give is quite practical; with some help from a friend who works in a medical lab I was able to set up my own electrophoresis gels and PCR. A word of caution to the amateur, however: make sure you practice before drawing any conclusions from the "evidence." My wife, Amy, wouldn't speak to me for a week after I claimed that a stain on our bed linen did not match my DNA. It turned out that she had spilled some ice cream.

Nice figures, photos, schemes, and U.S. tables; lively comparisons show that authors are good teachers. Though technical part of the book outdates fast necessarily (acronym SNP has not been coined in 1996 yet), it is a shame that an interpretation part of the book neglects the current knowledge. Bayes theorem is known since 1763 and, nevertheless, likelihood ratio is not even mentined in the book! Books of Evett and Weir or of Robertson and Vignaux cannot be substituted by this book.

I suppose the most important question is why are you interested in this book. It would make a good textbook for an intro type class in this area or would be good for someone who doesn't know DNA analysis, but is involved in criminalistics. The level of detail is insufficient for anyone who actually understands the molecular approaches. It spends a fair bit of time talking about cases and HOW this particular approach was once useful. These are interesting little stories, but the book really didn't give me what I wanted. I have a background in molecular genetics and was interested in making a career shift to DNA forensics. There was little of value for me because it never really got to the details. I think it would be good for a class because it provides historical perspective on the now outdated techniques that would be important background for someone who never knew anything about the development of the previous techniques and only learned what is current today, but to someone who has that background...seemed like it just added a new chapter to an otherwise outdated book.

The service from this company is disgusting. I never received my book. I ordered my book on December 18, 2010 and I still did not receive it. I was even told that another copy would be sent out and I am still waiting. I will never order from this company again.

I am very happy to say that soon after I placed my order, I received the book in perfect condition. It was shrink wrapped and in great shape.

Thank you for your professsionalism and promptness :)

The book arrived in a very timely manner. I will most definitely buy from this seller again if need be.

This was an informative and comprehensive rewiew of typically boring material. I felt a new understanding of the topic of DNA.