Bones Never Lie: How Forensics Helps Solve History's Mysteries

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How did King Tut really die The mystery of the young pharaohs death is only one of the puzzles that modern science has helped solve. Thanks to forensicsthe science of examining physical evidencewe now know that King Tut died of malaria. We also know that stomach cancer, and not arsenic as suspected, killed Napoleon. Seven intriguing stories about historical royal figures whose demise was suspicious, and hard scientific facts about crime-solving techniques make each event seem like an episode of CSI rather than a history lesson. Kids will be fascinated to find out how scientists use autopsy results, DNA testing, bone fragments, and even insects to determine the cause of death. At times a gripping whodunit, at others an exercise in deductive reasoning, this book will be hard to put down for any kids who love mysteries, murder, and suspense.

Reviews

starred review) When I was six years old, I read a book that set me on a scientific path toward a career in biological anthropology and university research. Bones Never Lie may be that kind of influential book for some of today's pre-teens... Readers are treated to historic mysteries about the identity, cause and manner of death of (in)famous individuals from 800 CE through 1946... Explanations of scientific method of thinking and logic are age-appropriate yet accurate, and I learned new information about cases I hadn't revisited in recent years... An interesting, informative and engaging read.--Nikki L. Rogers"Science Books and Film" (01/01/2014)
(starred review) When I was six years old, I read a book that set me on a scientific path toward a career in biological anthropology and university research. Bones Never Lie may be that kind of influential book for some of today's pre-teens... Readers are--Nikki L. Rogers"Science Books and Film" (01/01/2014)
This book devotes a chapter to each of seven historical mysteries and demonstrates how different aspects of forensic science have been used to uncover the truth. Each chapter is like an episode of CSI and readers will be pulled into the stories. The author engages the reader by giving a sense of place and illuminating personality traits of the high profile historical figures. Different aspects of forensics are presented in a concise, conversational manner and include everything from deductive reasoning to ballistics to DNA testing. Both science geeks and history buffs will find entertainment here. With intriguing photographs and illustrations, informative text features and side notes, this nonfiction text reads like a thriller and would be a great addition to middle grade collections. Recommended.--Cecelia Carmenates, Librarian, O.W. Holmes Middle"Library Media Connection" (12/01/2013)
An appealing introduction to some intriguing mysteries from history's cold cases.--Carolyn Phelan"Booklist Online" (04/19/2013)
Bones Never Lie enhances traditional history and science lessons with murderous mysteries, treacherous plot lines, and a funhouse touch of terror.--Nikki Luscombe"Quill and Quire" (01/01/2013)
Curious readers will devour this book which is attractively illustrated with appropriate colour and black and white photographs.--Val Ken Lem"Canadian Materials" (06/14/2013)
Great writing, spectacular science and all wrapped up in a story that is well told and forever fascinating!--Sally Bender"Sal's Fiction Addiction" (05/13/2013)
The topic is great for the intended age group; the discussion is sometimes gross and grisly but also realistic and accessible.--Leslie Vermeer"Resource Links" (06/01/2013)
With colorful photography, excellent graphic images, poignant questions and a fast-paced writing style, this intriguing book will fascinate young readers.--Karen Hildebrand"Reading Today Online" (05/22/2013)
Young readers ages nine to 12 will be intrigued by the book's whodunit style, and the many photographs, sidebars and glossary of terms, all of which contribute to the mystery-solving.--Brenda Hoerle"Guelph Mercury Record" (04/13/2013)

Author Bio

Elizabeth MacLeod is a prolific author of non-fiction books for children, including biographies, craft books, and the Ontario Library Association's Red Maple Award-winning "Royal Murder." She lives in Toronto.