It is, in fact, a manual describing the techniques and outcomes that genetics research in the laboratory can expect. Locating specific genes on specific chromosome molecules is referred to as DNA sequencing, and Alphey describes how it is done.
Manual techniques are for small batches.
Presumably this would be in the case for such tasks as genetic fingerprinting in a forensics lab, or seeking the presence of a detrimental mutation in preparation for genetic counseling. It soon becomes obvious from Alphey's description that each of the multiple steps in the process requires considerable skill and attention. There are kits with supplies of the chemicals and apparatus required, but only practice will produce good results. The equipment for automated sequencing enables much more throughput, but it too needs expert fine-tuning and operation. The final third of the book is devoted to bioinformatics.