The Wonder of Genetics: The Creepy, the Curious, and the Commonplace

Despite a title that's reminiscent of 1950s science books for kids, this book is an excellent introduction to heredity and modern genetics aimed at the general reader. Dealing with questions ranging from the basic (such as how genetic traits are inherited) to the more complex and topical (genetic therapy and stem-cell research), Kowles (Biology [emer.], St. Mary's University of Minnesota) shows how genetics are studied in plants and animals, and demonstrates the importance of genetics for many areas of our lives. While some readers may take issue with the author's views on radiation and genetically modified organisms, most will enjoy this wide-ranging (and good-humored) introduction to genetic science. Annotation 穢2011 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)