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Synopsis
Explores DNA, how it determines heredity, and some of the implications of recent genetic discoveries. Includes related activities.
Ruth Buchholz - Children's Literature
DNA, cloning, genes and tracing family history aren't just for science fiction or detective shows any more. These topics are more relevant than ever. This book discusses genetics in-depth. The first half of the book is so in-depth, though, many adults might even have trouble following it. The second half is closer to the appropriate language level. Though the level sometimes kicks into high-gear, the text is thorough, accurate and filled with fascinating facts. The same elements as in the rest of the series make the complex topic easier for the reader. There's an interview with Dolly (the first successfully cloned mammal), a "Solve-it-Yourself" mystery, activities and career information. Plus, kids will love reading about the "blue Fugates"—a real story about a human family tree filled with people with blue skin. The story behind the "elephant man" is also explained. The book includes many interesting photographs and illustrations, but like all books in the series, the layout is overwhelming, with too much text and too little white space. This, combined with the high-level text, makes it even more challenging to read and stay interested. Part of the "Discovery Channel School Science Universes Large and Small" series. 2004, Gareth Stevens Publishing, Ages 12 to 15.
Editorials
Children's Literature
DNA, cloning, genes and tracing family history aren't just for science fiction or detective shows any more. These topics are more relevant than ever. This book discusses genetics in-depth. The first half of the book is so in-depth, though, many adults might even have trouble following it. The second half is closer to the appropriate language level. Though the level sometimes kicks into high-gear, the text is thorough, accurate and filled with fascinating facts. The same elements as in the rest of the series make the complex topic easier for the reader. There's an interview with Dolly (the first successfully cloned mammal), a "Solve-it-Yourself" mystery, activities and career information. Plus, kids will love reading about the "blue Fugates"—a real story about a human family tree filled with people with blue skin. The story behind the "elephant man" is also explained. The book includes many interesting photographs and illustrations, but like all books in the series, the layout is overwhelming, with too much text and too little white space. This, combined with the high-level text, makes it even more challenging to read and stay interested. Part of the "Discovery Channel School Science Universes Large and Small" series. 2004, Gareth Stevens Publishing, Ages 12 to 15.—Ruth Buchholz