Written In Bone: hidden stories in what we leave behind

Written in Bone is a fascinating book by Professor Dame Sue Black, a world-renowned forensic anthropologist, that explores the hidden stories in our bones. It demonstrates how each part of our body leaves a trace that can be deciphered by forensic anthropologists, revealing our diet, location, and activities. Black reconstructs the lives of individuals with intimate sensitivity and compassion, showcasing the remarkable ways in which science can uncover the mysteries of the past.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 03 February 2022
Publisher: Transworld Publishers Ltd

Written in Bone, the captivating work of Professor Dame Sue Black, has been awarded the prestigious CWA Gold Dagger for Non-Fiction. This gripping narrative delves into the intricate world of forensic anthropology, where the bones of the deceased become the silent witnesses to the lives they once led. Through her extensive research and remarkable experiences, Black unravels the secrets hidden within each part of the human body, revealing the stories etched into their marrow.

From the skull to the feet, via the face, spine, chest, arms, hands, pelvis, and legs, Black demonstrates that each component of our anatomy holds a tale to tell. The foods we consume, the places we visit, and every action we take leave a trace, a message that patiently waits for months, years, or even centuries to be deciphered by a forensic anthropologist. Some of this information is readily accessible, while others require scientific coaxing to be unearthed. Nevertheless, by meticulously piecing together the evidence, Black reconstructs the hidden stories within what we leave behind, with an intimate sensitivity and compassion that is truly remarkable.

In her book, Black explores a diverse range of cases, spanning from criminal investigations to historical mysteries and even some inexplicably bizarre incidents. She skillfully reconstructs the lives of the deceased, bringing them to life with vivid detail and emotional depth. Her writing is praised for its ability to make blood and bones come alive, captivating readers from the very first page.

Black's work has garnered widespread acclaim from critics and readers alike. She has been described as a "marvellous writer" by Ruth Davidson, the Scottish Member of Parliament, and a "corpse whisperer" by the Spectator. Her book has been praised for its gripping narrative, fascinating insights, and moving storytelling. It has been described as "engrossing" by the Financial Times and "moving" by the Scotsman.

Written in Bone is a testament to the power of forensic anthropology and the remarkable work of Professor Dame Sue Black. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the human body, history, and the mysteries that lie within us. Through her meticulous research and captivating storytelling, Black has opened our eyes to the hidden stories that our bones tell, and has left us in awe of the incredible lives that once unfolded before us.

Weight: 248g
Dimension: 127 x 197 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529176605