Vampire Forensics: Uncovering The Origins of an Enduring Legend by Mark Collins Jenkins
Reviewed by: Sarah Baker, Circulation
Genre: Non-Fiction
Suggested Age: Adults
What is the book about?: The legend of the vampire is almost as old as human civilization, but the origins of the legend are differing across time and cultures. Jenkins examines the mythos, starting with the most recent incarnation of the legend of the vampire – the Hollywood one, specifically Dracula. But as we move through the chapters, Jenkins goes further back, examining the history of Vlad Dracul, the signs that denote a vampire, and the different types of vampire from around the world. Forensic knowledge meets folklore and myth with satisfactory result.
My Review: I saw this on the shelf and knew I needed to read it. I’m fascinated by vampires in American culture, and hoped this would shed more light on that subject. It did – less in a cultural lens and more in a historical one. The “vampire” burials – where the corpse would have a brick or rock in its mouth, nails driven into the body, the head removed (either completely or relocated to between the legs), even the classic stake through the heart – are examined in broader context than just that corpse. When forensics are applied, it becomes clear that fear and ignorance led to desecration of innocent victims’ bodies. This book proved a quick read, and an engrossing one.
Rating: 4/5
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About FDL Reads
Welcome to FDL Reads, weekly book reviews from Fondulac District Library. Librarians (and possibly some other guest reviewers) review all types of books, from children’s picture books, young adult favorites, to the latest adult thriller, and share their thoughts each week at fondulaclibrary.org. If the book is owned by Fondulac District Library (or another local library), you’ll see a direct link to the catalog entry and whether or not it is available. If it is checked out or at another local library, you will be able to place a hold as long as you have your library card and PIN numbers. As with any book review, these are our opinions…we disagree amongst ourselves about books frequently. We all have different likes and dislikes, which is what makes the world an interesting place. Please enjoy, and keep on reading!