Forensics
Teacher Resources

Forensics: Cool Women Who Investigate

By Anita Yasuda  
Illustrated by Allison Bruce
How do scientists solve mysteries? With forensics, the use of scientific methods to solve crimes! In Forensics: Cool Women Who Investigate, readers ages 9 through 12 meet three women who are trailblazers in the field of forensics and discover what it takes to succeed in this fascinating field.
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Reviews

Children's Literature Review
“Yasuda examines the professional lives of three female forensic scientists and their paths to success as a way of introducing the field of forensic science to girls. The depictions of the women suggest varied racial and ethnic backgrounds which adds a subtle and welcome statement about the appeal of the forensic sciences to girls of diverse backgrounds. Part of the Girls in Science series, (the) book does a good job of the series stated goal: to supply a bridge between girls interests and their potential futures by presenting a brief yet comprehensive explanation of the field, illuminated by three real-life women who have made successful careers in the forensic sciences. This book would be a good addition to career literature in middle school libraries and as a focus for discussion about careers in forensics for the classroom.”

Booklist Online Exclusive
“Through movies and television, forensics has become one of the hottest STEM topics. This latest in the Girls in Science series provides a glimpse into the details of the early lives and careers of three leading women in the field, examining their interests as kids, their educational choices, and their typical job responsibilities. A thorough overview of the field of forensics and fingerprinting is offered alongside a time line of the development of forensic studies. After each section, an "Ask and Answer" feature encourages readers to reflect on what they've read by asking open-ended questions that gauge their own career preferences. QR codes and keyword search prompts are located in the margins, allowing readers easy access to multimedia interviews, images, and interactive enrichment activities. A heavy emphasis is placed on primary sources, connecting readers with actual forensic scientists through archival materials. High-interest content coupled with relatable role models make this a quality career and occupational resource.

Archimedes Notebook
“This is the perfect book for a young woman headed to college with an interest in sciences, but not quite sure what she wants to do.”

Rebecca Barlag, PhD, Assistant Professor of Chemistry, Director, B.S. Forensic Chemistry Program, Ohio University
“Forensics  is an educational book that encourages young women to pursue forensic careers through engaging examples of real women in the field. The inclusion of stories about how these women worked to overcome challenges as well as celebrated their successes sends a powerful, much-needed, nonfiction message to young women who are constantly bombarded with fictional forensic shows.”

Dr. Thomas Parsons, Director of Forensic Science, International Commission on Missing Persons
“If you are interested in learning what it's like to set out in forensics, this is a great place to start!”

Allison Y. Eastman, PhD, Associate Professor of Biology, University at Albany, SUNY
“Forensics: Cool Women Who Investigate introduces exciting forensic science career opportunities to young readers. The women interviewed make it clear that the road to becoming a successful forensic scientist requires determination, smarts, and self-discipline, and everyone encounters stumbling blocks along the way!”

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Detailed Book Description

How do scientists solve mysteries? With forensics, the use of scientific methods to solve crimes! In Forensics: Cool Women Who Investigate, readers ages 9 through 12 meet three women who are trailblazers in the field of forensics and discover what it takes to succeed in this fascinating field.

  • Combines subjects of math, chemistry, biology, and literacy.
  • Forensics is a high-interest topic made popular by TV shows such as the CSI franchise.
  • Readers learn about the history of forensics, career options, and key people in the field.
Available In:
Hardcover, $19.95
9781619303461
Paperback, $9.95
9781619303508
Includes: Table of Contents | Timeline | Charts | Glossary | Resources | Index
Specs: 5 3/4 x 9 size | 4-color interior | 112 pages
Subject: Language Arts | Science
Content Focus: Chemistry | Language Arts

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction
What Is Forensics?

Chapter 1
Fingerprints and the Future

Chapter 2
Christine Gabig-Prebyl

Chapter 3
Jessica Frances Lam

Chapter 4
Stephanie Kristen Callian

Timeline
Essential Questions
Glossary
Resources
Index