National Geographic Investigates: Genetics: From DNA to Designer Dogs (National Geographic Investigates Science) - Hardcover

Simpson, Kathleen

3.74

46 ratings by Goodreads

9781426303616: National Geographic Investigates: Genetics: From DNA to Designer Dogs (National Geographic Investigates Science)

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 1426303610 ISBN 13: 9781426303616

Publisher: National Geographic Children's Books, 2008

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Ever since scientists first cloned Dolly, genetics has been a hot-button topic in the media and the political world. Genetics brings readers the inside story, and looks objectively at this fascinating modern science. From the Human Genome Project to stem cell research to the National Geographic’s own Genographic Project, scientists are exploring and rapidly advancing our knowledge of the human condition.

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About the Author:

Kathleen Simpson lives in the hill country of central Texas with her husband and dogs. She has authored numerous works for young people, including the National Geographic Investigates books Extreme Weather: Science Tackles Global Warming and Climate Change, Genetics: From DNA to Designer Dogs, and The Human Brain: Inside Your Body’s Control Room.

From Booklist:

Despite the odd choice of a placid sheep gracing the cover of this entry in the National Geographic Investigates series, the content is fairly exciting and should grab the attention of its target audience. Simpson begins with an ancient mystery: an Egyptian mummy is found who may or may not be the long-missing pharaoh Hatshepsut, but only DNA testing can prove if she was related to other Egyptian royalty. These archaeological adventures are paired with the less visceral (but every bit as important) study of the heredity of pea plants done by Gregor Mendel in the 1800s. The photographs throughout are of high quality and match the unique angles taken by each chapter: plant genetics are seen through the prism of the Chernobyl explosion; long-life genes are discussed by asking the reader to examine different parts of their body in the mirror; and genetic duplication is broached by introducing Ditteaux, a clone who is the hope of the endangered African wildcat. An engaging look at a complex topic. Grades 4-6. --Daniel Kraus

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