Uses true crime stories to explain the science of forensics and trace evidence. Describes how detectives and scientists collect, analyze, and use trace evidence to solve crimes. Includes color photographs, profiles of jobs in this field, a glossary, and sources for additional information.

Putting pieces together -- Combing for evidence -- Not quite spotless -- When is trace evidence meaningful? -- Piling on the evidence -- Vanished with a trace -- The math behind the science -- Serving justice.