Biotechnology And Genetic Engineering joins others in the publisher's 'Library in a Book' reference and deserves ongoing mention as an excellent single-volume basic introduction to biotechnology for readers at the high school level on up. From cloning to DNA mapping and legal ramifications of research, this packs in important history, ethical and moral discussions, and plenty of bibliographic references for further study.

After supper in my house, my children always ask if we can "do questions." This is a time where I ask them questions about geography, mathematics, history, science and other aspects of the universe. They repeatedly ask for more, and I often have to tell them that it is time to do other things. Their curiosity is very refreshing and makes this parent proud. For curiosity is one of the most valuable traits that a human can have, and is essential for success in science. With two pre-teen daughters, my focus is often on showing them different possibilities that they could pursue when it comes time to choose a career. Therefore, I am often looking for books that will demonstrate women who have been successful in specific careers.
This is a book that I consulted when I needed information about women scientists, and the descriptions of ten of the top women scientists of the past fifty years is good material for young girls to read. My only concern was that the chronologies of the lives of these scientists included their marriages and divorces right beside their scientific achievements, including in some cases, Nobel prizes. In my opinion, this information was unnecessary, and I do not recall ever seeing such events being listed in the chronologies of male scientists. The focus should have been on their career achievements, rather than their marital conditions.
I used the book as a resource for information about woman of high achievement in the sciences, but did not give it to my girls to read. While success often has a price, I want them to learn to aspire before they begin to consider the consequences. The not-so-subtle message is that a woman cannot have a career and a husband, and that is not the case.

I like this book very much. It could be read by a bright 6th grader and is definitely readable by middle-schoolers but there is no talking down in it and I would recommend it to adults. It talks about 10 women scientists, all of whom are (or were) US citizens. Three are Asian American, one is African American and the rest are white. Naturally, I would have liked to have seen at least one Native American and Latina included. Perhaps the author will write a sequel. Within those limitations though, its a good and useful book. Each bio has at least one portrait-type photo and at least one additional illustration or photo. The illustrations are informative and enlightening. The bios are interesting and each has a life chronology of important events and suggestions for further reading at the end. A great reference.

There have been a few books written about Black scientists that are as interesting as the one before you. Black Scientists profiles eight African-Americans who made significant contributions to the field of applied and pure science. Some of the individuals profiled are well known while others have faded into the backdrops of history. These African Americans who took on the field of science had to overcome many obstacles in obtaining their education, finding positions and acquiring funds for their research. All of them met the mark of excellence and we have become the beneficiaries of their work.

Unlike other biographies of Black scientists, the author dispenses with the well worn myths surrounding these figures. She focuses on what the individual actually contributed to their field other than being the "first" Black. You are in for a surprise when you find out the impact that one man had on the field of medical education for Black doctors and nurses. You will be astounded at the work done in chemotherapy, chemistry and computer science by highly assertive African-American men and women.

Learning about these great people is an eye opener. Science is a field wide open in which anyone can participate regardless of race. Their inspiring achievements and contributions tell us that African-Americans can and will continue to make strides in the area of science. Read these stories and consider walking in their footsteps.

this book is the most interesting book. It is full of pictures that are explained in the text given on the page. This is one of the best books that a kid can read with out being baffled. This book is for all ages. The information given is very organized. The author could not have put text any better. The words are kinda hard but there is a glossary in the back that can help you.

The author, Lisa Yount, has selected excellent examples of some of the most important pathfinders in the field of genetics beginning with the father of genetics, Gregor Mendel and ending with a noted pioneer in gene therapy, W. French Anderson. Each of the vignettes describes one or a small group of researchers who have made major contributions to the field. The vignettes are filled with wonderful sidelines, many quoting from the subjects, that give a human quality to the narrative. The scientific data is easy to understand and well presented. This is a wonderful book for anyone curious not only about genetics, but also about science and the scientific method.