Written In Bone

From the world-renowned forensic anthropologist and bestselling author of All That Remains, Professor Dame Sue Black offers a captivating exploration of the human skeleton in Written in Bone. This unparalleled work delves deep into the secrets our bones harbour, revealing the hidden stories they hold about our lives. Recipient of the CWA Gold Dagger for Non-Fiction and hailed as one of THE TIMES' Best Memoirs of the Year, Written in Bone is a gripping and illuminating journey from skull to feet. Professor Black's expertise and storytelling prowess shine through as she dissects the human body, part by part. From the face and spine to the chest, arms, hands, pelvis, and legs, every section of our anatomy is meticulously examined to uncover the narratives etched into our very being. Drawing from her extensive research and remarkable career, Professor Black demonstrates how our bones retain records of everything we experience. Our diet, movements, and actions leave an indelible trace that can persist for months, years, or even centuries. It's these traces that forensic anthropologists like Sue Black decode to piece together the events of a person's life. While some information is straightforward, other data requires thorough scientific analysis to be unveiled. Through this meticulous process, the intricate story of an individual’s existence is reconstructed, limb by limb, case by case. Professor Black shares a series of poignant and gripping stories, ranging from criminal investigations to historical inquiries, and even some cases that defy categorisation. Her compassionate and sensitive approach reveals not just the facts, but also the profound human elements embedded in skeletal remains. Each tale underscores the remarkable insights that bones can provide about life and death, offering readers a unique perspective on the silent testimony our bodies provide. Acclaimed by readers and critics alike, Written in Bone has garnered accolades from prominent figures: 'Gripping from the start, Written in Bone is superb' - Dr Richard Shepherd, author of Unnatural Causes 'No Scientist communicates better than Sue Black' - Val McDermid, author of Still Life Praise for Sue Black: 'Utterly gripping' - The Guardian 'Fascinating' - The Sunday Times 'Moving' - Scotsman 'Engrossing' - Financial Times In Written in Bone, Professor Sue Black invites readers to explore the intricate and fascinating world of forensic anthropology, demonstrating with compelling clarity how the human skeleton reveals our secrets long after we are gone. This is a masterful narrative that will captivate anyone intrigued by the intersection of science and the human story.