Essential Science: The Human Genome

by Jeremy Cherfas, John Gribbin

Big ideas made simple -- six books in an incredible new series that explains important scientific ideas more clearly than ever before. One of the greatest achievements of the age, the sequencing of the human genome is here explored and explained in detail, from the work of the earliest geneticists to the publication of the genome itself, with all the implications it has for the future. This stimulating new series uses an innovative mix of graphics, artwork, and photographs to explain and illuminate the most important scientific topics of the day. Unique in popular science guides, Essential Science uses bright, full-color images to make traditionally "difficult" subjects more accessible. Each title focuses on a scientific or technological topic that is currently provoking debate and is likely to have a widespread impact on our lives. Lively, readable text from top science writers ensures all readers -- from 14+ schoolchildren to academics -- gain a full understanding of the facts and related issues. Under the direction of renowned science writer John Gribbin, expert authors describe, in lively, jargon-free text, the principles and discoveries behind each subject, summarize what is currently known, and predict future issues and trends.

Genres: Science, Popular Science

72 pages, Paperback

First published March 7, 2002

Reviews

[Nan · Rating 2 out of 5]

Although the book is very well documented and illustrated with a lot of interesting facts about the history of genetics, in my personal experience, I found it a bit boring. I must admit that this may be because it is not my area of expertise and many of the processes described in the book were difficult for me to understand. Interestingly, I found that the book was very useful as a sleeping pill: I literally fell asleep within minutes after reading it.

Despite this, I must emphasize that what caught my attention the most was the part that deals with ethics in genetic research. I think it is a very important and relevant topic nowadays.

As to whether I would recommend this book, I would say that it would perhaps be more appropriate for those who are just starting out in these subjects or for those who are looking for something to relax before going to sleep. However, if you have a genuine interest in genetics, the book certainly offers a wealth of valuable information.

[Gustavo Perez Ortiz · Rating 5 out of 5]

De las pocas, escasas cosas buenas que ha hecho la SEP en su historia. A través de la Comisión de Textos Gratuitos y como parte de la colección Libros del Rincón, se tradujo esta maravilla de libro, eso sí, con algunas erratas que a los enterados en ciencias biológicas no pasarán desapercibidas —¿ya dije que era de la SEP, verdad?—, pero que no dañan la esencia de la obra.

Jeremy Cherfas no solo te cuenta la historia de cómo nacieron los proyectos que completarían el primer borrador del genoma humano, sino que va más atrás, hasta la pregunta elemental que originó todo esto: porqué cada niño es como sus padres, no idéntico, pero lo suficiente como para hablar del parecido familiar.

Pero esto se logra explicar en tan solo 72 páginas, lo cual me parece asombroso.

Un imprescindible para cualquiera.

[Abhik · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice introduction to the topic!