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