page 14 vol. 33 no. 4

Paleoimaging: Field Applications for Cultural Remains and Artifacts

by, Ronald G. Beckett and Gerald J. Conlogue CRC Press Taylor and Francis Group, Septl\mber, 2009

Reviewed by: Michael D. Calhoun, R.T. Radiology Director Shady Grove Adventist Hospital

Kudos to Professors Conlogue and Beckett for writing a complete and insightful introduction and guide to paleoimaging~ This book deftly fills a-void for the radiographer desiring to learn more about this area of specialized imaging. Unfortunately, most schools of radiography never cover the material that is outlined in this book, leaving the would­be paleoimager to learn on-the-job, a less than desirable scenario. As well as the radiographer, this book may interest archeologists and anthropologists as an overview on how the tools of palioimaging provide useful data for their analysis, along with the added benefit of being non-destructive. Although an imaging background would be helpful , the explanations of various pertinent modalities make it easy for anyone to understand and to put the learning acquired in this book to good use .. I certainly do not put myself in the same category as the authors whose vast

demanding places. However, I've never been in a place so remote that I utilized a tent and generator as the authors have. The projects described within the book give a whole new meaning to "in-the-field" imaging, but demonstrate that seemingly insurmountable obstacles

can be overcome. The book provides great detail, but it is not tedious reading. The number of pages (390) is just about right, not too long, and filled with many interesting

--[,icture,s demonj trating creative, in-thecfield set-up with corresponding images. I was impressed with the flow of the book starting with the photography, conventional radiography, computer-based imaging, endoscopy and lastly, but most importantly, safety. The safety chapter discusses not only radiation safety, but physical hazards and risks associated with the field location and environment. Each chapter logically builds upon the next. Case studies, tables, and templates offorms for documentation enhance the text with practical

information. The companion CD provides a nice personal touch, giving one the feel of attending an

experience is vividly portrayed in this book. However, with almost 30 years of imaging experience and a veteran ofnine'forensie-ex-hMmaliOAS, 1 four.\dcmyself saying "Yes! Thafs right! They're dead-on!" - no pun intended.

- -----i;nfo""al, lotmd-table-elassroom~ecrur.e t>y one..of..lb,,-­authors.

For the radiographer who desires to do paleoimaging or forensic imaging, this book is a great how-to guide. It not only examines a range of imaging techniques, but also explains how these techniques can be applied to all aspects of forensic and archeological analysis. It is an instructive primer for anyone interested in pursuing or enhancing their skills in these areas. As I recalled previous forensiC: projects, I was able to correlate and collaborate many of the author's suggestions and mentally file away worthwhile and instructive ideas for future field projects. I wholeheartedly agree with the authors' recommendation that an experienced radiographer be part of any archaeological or forensic team. Adaptability, creativity and critical thinking are prerequisites for any successful paleo/forensic . radiographer. I thought I was challenged when selting up dark rooms in bathrooms, closets and other

I readily admit my bias and enthusiasm for forensic and archeological imaging, which must be apparent to anyone reading this review. I only wish I had the advantage of reading this book fifteen years ago, prior to my first forensic in-the-field experience. It would have enabled me to be more confident, and devoid of even the slightest glimmer of timidity when confronted by unexpectedly unique situations. This book will appeal to a limited demographic population. However, for the radiographer who seeks to advance in the discipline, it's a must read , indeed!