Criminal Investigation, book review

Criminal Investigation by Karen Hess is a textbook used in criminology courses throughout the USA. I studied this book carefully as part of my research for writing one of my novels. The book is a thorough primer on the subject, starting with the basics and going all the way through to advanced techniques. Here’s my video review.

What I found most useful about this book was it’s organization. Without realizing it, I learned a bit about order and structure in the course of an investigation that applies to other areas of life, including writing a novel. Not that I always follow proper or even a logical procedure because part of writing is organic, taking its own course as it moves along. Nonetheless, a bit of formality improves the likelihood of success and I’m pleased to have received a tune-up in this area. So, if you’re someone who loves detective stories or just wants to have a look at the way a criminal investigation should be done, give this book a try.

Marsha Brown’s (video review)

Marsha Brown’s Restaurant is located in the center of New Hope, PA, USA. It’s a great restaurant for both lunch and dinner. The bar is also an enticing venue for people watching, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights as it is a watering hole for an eclectic crowd. Here’s my video review showing a recent lunch.

Hungry? I am. The meal was tasty and served up by a friendly staff. In particular, I find the bartenders here to be good at engaging the guest, keeping things moving, and serving up an honest pour. That’s the way I like it.

Occupy Philadelphia

While in Philadelphia City Hall on other business, I captured the following footage of the protesters operating under the banner of Occupy Philadelphia. Here’s a look at the tents, signs, and a few of the speakers. It’s worth watching and then you can draw your own conclusions.

So, what do you think?

Savaneta Water Tank

At the eastern edge of the area in Aruba known as Savaneta, there is a large water tank high up on the hill. When visitors ask me to give them a tour around the island, we drive up there for a beautiful panoramic view. Here’s a photo of the tank in the distance, as seen from a helicopter over the more populated area of the borough.

Just follow the winding road up to the silver tank in the middle of the frame. This location is a little tricky to find. In a couple of months I’ll be making one of those Aruba driving videos of mine that will show exactly how to get there. One note of caution: park with your car facing to the east, into the wind because when you open the door, the wind can catch it and kink the hinges. Hold tight to your hats as well.

Published in: on October 10, 2011 at 11:38 am  Leave a Comment  
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