Morgue: A Life in Death

This collection of narratives describes various high-profile and historically significant cases on which pathologist Di Maio has consulted during his esteemed career, including the trial for the murder of Trayvon Martin and the exhumation of Lee Harvey Oswald. He illuminates the world of forensic pathology while showing its contribution to the evolution of evidence-based judgments in criminal trials. Di Maio emphasizes the centrality of impartiality to the profession: how his job is to determine the cause and manner of death, regardless of any effects his conclusions may have. The examples well satisfy humanity's obsession with murder and justice. They are written (with journalist Franscell) skillfully enough that even when a suspect's guilt is painfully obvious, the methodical and deliberate presentation of proof helps the reader better appreciate and understand the challenges of the justice system. As with William R. Maples's Dead Men Do Tell Tales, Di Maio's work asserts the value of his medical specialty while lamenting the steadily decreasing number of its competent practitioners.