Genetic Engineering Debating the Benefits and Concerns

Children's Literature

As scientific advances continue to emerge in the field of genetic research a host of possibilities and questions arise. On the one hand, genetic breakthroughs have allowed for the development of pest resistant crops, the diagnosis of gene-related diseases and amazing medical advances in cancer treatment. Conversely, crops that have been genetically altered have also shown a tendency to cause unforeseen ecological problems and the use of processed stem cells taken from aborted fetuses is highly controversial. Most recently, stories related to cloning techniques that could lead to human reproduction via this process have caused widespread debate over a variety of ethical, moral and religious grounds. Genetic engineering is a subject that can polarize public opinion. In this information-laden study, Karen Judson weighs in on some of the most prevalent issues in this field of science. The author details the subjects already mentioned, as well as many others. Each controversy is presented in a fair manner. Opinions both for and against certain aspects of genetic engineering are presented in a thorough way. The author points out the possible developments in this field as well as some future lines of study. Readers will come away from this book better informed than they had been on a fascinating subject. This is a thoughtful book, however, be prepared for some heavy reading, as portions of the text are rather technical and dry. Part of the "Issues in Focus" series. 2001, Enslow Publishers, $20.95. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck

School Library Journal

Gr 6-9-Looking serene and absolutely "normal," Dolly the sheep clone stares out from the cover of this book. She is the perfect lead into the first chapter entitled "Welcome to the Clone Age." Judson presents not only the issues connected with animal and human cloning, but also the basic principles of genetics. The same care in the explanation of basics is applied to genetic engineering, gene therapy, testing, discrimination based on genetics, and "the gene business." Along the way, both benefits and dangerous implications of each topic are brought to the fore. Gary E. McCuen's Cloning, Science and Society (GEM, 1998) has more detailed discussions of specific aspects of the debate. James D. Torr's Genetic Engineering (Greenhaven, 2000) explores many of the same ideas for a more sophisticated readership. Judson's work has short chapters divided into clearly labeled and easily digestible sections, and includes a generous helping of simple diagrams and halftone photographs. Detailed chapter notes, a bibliography of works published in the 1990s, a substantial glossary, and a selective list of reliable Internet addresses increase the value of this compact volume.-Ann G. Brouse, Steele Memorial Library, Elmira, NY Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.