Christianson, Scott

Shares the stories behind fifty great escapes in which people were able to free themselves from kidnappers, oppressive regimes, prison and the law, man-made disasters, war, and nature.

Examines developments in the field of forensic science over the last seventy years and explores the links between crime scene investigations, forensic laboratories, and the court of law.

Relates the fascinating-and appalling-stories of the discovery, development, applications, and occupational and public health hazards of natural and human-made gases. Some of these gases have figured in mass extinctions. Others have created havoc through their use in chemical warfare or their accidental release. Colorful accounts capture the characteristics and history of each of these mysterious substances, focusing on key episodes in scientific discovery and exploration since WWI.