A Child Against All Odds

by Robert Winston

One of Britain’s leading fertility specialists provides the definitive account of modern reproductive technology in this hard-hitting, sometimes humourous, look at the scientific, social and ethical background of the struggle to discover and control the secrets of reproduction.

Genres: Science, Nonfiction

352 pages, Hardcover

First published December 19, 2006

About the author

The Right Honourable Professor The Lord Robert Maurice Lipson Winston

Reviews

[Alan Heppenstall · Rating 4 out of 5]

Easy to read, interesting and exciting. Especially enjoyed the scientific research stories.

[Suzie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall a great insight. This book is really informative and presents both sides to everything

[Jack Kirby and the X-man · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book provides fantastic insight into the world of human fertility from a prominent researcher and science communicator...

The book begins by explaining the complexities in achieving a viable pregnancy... I've been through the process, and never really gave much thought to the intricate series of elements that needed to align to make it happen. In explaining this many of the common causes of infertility become obvious. Then Robert Winston discusses some of the treatments for these problems, in particular provides significant detail on IVF. Then he discusses some of the advances possible through the use of IVF - freezing of embroyos, eggs and sperm, and surrogacy (including non-IVF surrogacy). Then he continues into elements that cause much public debate - Pre-implantation diagnosis, cloning, stem cells and the creation of transgenic animals.

In the introduction Robert Winston explains he needed to write the book quickly to match the timetable of the accompanying BBC TV Series (which I have not viewed). In places this is obvious with mentions of people yet to be introduced and language yet to be defined - but these really do not hinder understanding.

[Adele · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book for a biology report and I found that the information was very useful. Robert Winston integrates biological information and ethical, moral and religious views together into a unbiased, thorough whole, that reads easily. Humour is added with his experiences and makes the book more personal. I liked this book so much that I continued reading it after I had finished and handed in my report!!

[Zhi Ling · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book expanded my scope of understanding about reproductive manipulation tremendously. Once again, Robert Winston has taught me the intricacies of the human body. Conception is indeed a matter of great luck for every couple, seeing how infertile humans are compared to other animals. Cloning and stem cell research were also discussed, and I like how the author states very legitimate arguments pertaining to these controversial issues.

[John Jordan · Rating 3 out of 5]

A great book for understading the history and development of assisted reproduction from one of the founding fathers of the modern era

[Pippa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating, and written in a clear accessible style.