A book review of Bones Never Lie: How Forensics Helps Solve History’s Mysteries by Elizabeth Macleod
Stars: ***
Annick Press (2013)
Children’s History/Science
160 pages
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This post contains affiliate links.
Summary: How did King Tut really die? The mystery of the young pharaoh’s death is only one of the puzzles that modern science has helped solve. Thanks to forensics—the science of examining physical evidence—we 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.
Bones Never Lie
Annick Press always has good books for teaching children about history and science and this is just like the others. Elizabeth Macleod shares seven stories from times past where we didn’t know exactly what happened back then, but now, with DNA and other crime solving techniques we have figured it out.
If your child loves mysteries, history or CSI this book will enthrall them. Each story (such as how did King Tut die) is followed from what we knew back then to what we’ve learned since. The book is full of related photographs and illustrations that help you follow along with what is going on.
The book is designed for ages 9-11 but could still be of interest to ages 12+. I found it interesting and I’m an adult. It’s a great book for those who are interested to pick up, or to use as part of a homeschool.
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