analysts will be interested in the less common detectors such as the photo ionisation and chemiluminescence detectors as well as the electro conductivity coulometric and ion mobility detectors. The first two may well have application for the forensic scientist, the chemilumines- cence detector seeming particularly apposite for explosives work. A final miscellaneous chapter summarises the use of plasma emission, atomic absorption, ion selective electroids, piezoel- ectric and mass and infrared spectrometric detectors. Overall there is a wealth of information in this book which is well referenced. It is unfortunate that such a book should be so poorly written in style and with so many typographical errors. The author would have done well to have examined the style of the companion volume, which is most readable.

The reviewer found this volume to be a most efficacious cure for insomnia. I cannot see this volume being every forensic chemist's laboratory companion and would expect it to be used only as a reference book.

BRIAN CADDY

MAKING THE MOST OF IT

Techniques of Crime Scene Investigation 4th edn BAJ Fisher, A Svensson and 0 Wendel (Elsevier Science Publishing Co Inc, New York, 1986, 524pp, index, ISBN 0 444 01 081 5, $36.50) This book sets out clearly all the elements of scene investigation. It deals with the importance of the basics such as plan drawing and note taking, and up-to-date techniques of the use of lasers and other technology in order to obtain as much as possible from any scene. It shows the various ways that trace evidence can be collected and the importance of identification, and it also demonstrates how easily a scene can be ruined. The importance of crime scenes is illustrated by some very interesting cases. The chapters in the book deal with a wide range of offences, from 'hit and run' road accidents to cases of murder.

The text of the book is easy to read and set out in such a way that it would be an invaluable reference book for any person who is involved, or interested, in crime scene investigation. I found the book very refreshing to read as it sets out the pitfalls that one can experience in scene investigation and also updates the reader with all the contemporary technology which can be used as an aid by the investigator. There are very few books which have covered this subject in all its aspects. In conclusion, I would recommend this book as it does highlight the importance these days of a team effort in carrying out this work and sets out an appendix of equipment that would be required to carry out the work efficiently.

BRIAN TILT