Forensic Detective: How I Cracked the World's Toughest Cases

For a person with a very limited knowledge of the world of forensic anthropology, Dr. Robert Mann's book cuts right to the chase and leaves you spellbound chapter after chapter. After finishing the book in just two nights, this carefully written roller coaster ride of a book gave me a greater insight and understanding of just how much is involved with this noble profession. I do take my hat off to all of the forensic anthropologists around the country who give of themselves daily to help solve some of the most difficult crime cases imaginable. If it were not for the untiring work of forensic anthropologists one would have to think of just how big the list of unsolved cases would be from present levels. Thank you Dr. Mann for allowing people such as myself into your world and giving us individuals with a very limited knowledge of this noble profession of just how dedicated the men and women who choose this profession truly are. I do highly recommend anyone considering a career in anthropology or anyone curious about this profession to invest the time and money into buying and reading this book. You will not be disappointed. Dr. Mann and the men and women of the forensic anthropology profession your hard work and dedication is truly appreciated more than you could possibly know.

I started reading this book yesterday and have not been able to put it down. I am half way through the book, but people need to know that this is an excellent read. I am currently pursuing my Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice, about to graduate, and this has helped me lean toward a path that I may follow. Please note that I have met Dr. Mann and to then read this book is astounding. I will write more when I am finished with the book. For anyone who loves detective work or shows like CSI you have to read this! I finished the book and it was excellent. Some chapters spooked me, some brought tears to my eyes and others just astounded me. I feel like I have worked side by side with Dr. Mann for the last 20 years. Jeffrey Dhamer sure was an interesting and obviously disturbed individual. Chapter 2 brought insight as to how Dr. Mann came to be. Although I felt like I could actually smell chapter 3 it was fascinating. From the mummy, to the man hanged from the tree, to the house of horrors (which it definitely was), to the flies disguised as curtains, this book offered many tips and tricks of the trade. Chapter 15 not only choked me up but actually brought a tear to my eye. I actually feel like a forensic anthropologist. I wonder after reading this tasteful recount of events how anyone could possibly feel like they could commit a crime and get away with it!

There are many fascinating books for the general public on forensic anthropology. What makes this one different from those that I have read so far is that, in addition to descriptions of efforts towards resolving murder cases, it contains several stories about the identification of the remains of soldiers who have died in various military conflicts, e.g., both World Wars, Korea, etc. The author has also included some honest and open-hearted autobiographical information. The writing style is friendly and engaging. The book should be of interest to forensics buffs, but especially those with a penchant for forensic anthropology. I enjoyed this book and, as such, I have rated it as above average for this subject category, i.e., four stars; but I don't think that it quite has the gripping edge that would make it five star material, as some such books that I have read do.

This review is to reach those of you with a strong interest in the sciences. I found this book very hard to put down. Robert Mann has a way of writing that takes you through his eyes to live breath and yuck, smell the experiences that has lead him on his journey of becoming one of the world's best forensic detectives. It is easy to understand even if you don't have any clue into the world of anthropology. It has made me more curious of the field, and I will be looking forward to studying it further in school. I recommend this to anyone who can stomach it, and who loves to learn factual knowledge through others experiences.

Mann's Forensic Detective gives us the best view--to date--of the scope and complexity of forensic anthropology. Well written. Nice Job.