Brief History of Everyone Who Ever Lived, A
Rutherford, AdamWho would have thought that humans have fewer genes than a banana or a grain of rice? In 2003 the Human Genome Project revealed this information, but their most unexpected discovery was just how little we do know about our genes. Sorting the facts from the hype, author Adam Rutherford gets us up to speed with what we do know: how we came to be, and who we are now.
This is a fascinating and lively account of our collective story spelt out through our genes.
Pages
419
419
Year
2016
2016
Reviews
10-07-2024
Lots of interesting information here! We found some of the metaphors a bit dense - maybe better for a documentary than a book. We had a great conversation about royal inbreeding, and DNA tests.
25-06-2024
Once we got through the first section most of us managed! Rutherford has brought a dry subject alive - he would make a very entertaining lecturer, I'm sure. We're just not sure we'll remember everything!
15-06-2022
Once we got into this book we all loved it. But we needed longer to get through it. Funny, informative, and some great stories.
30-09-2020
Rutherford keeps up a non-stop commentary on 'Our Genes', challenging our pre-conceptions on who we are, why we are, and what future we can have.
19-08-2020
A very mixed overall opinion of this book. Most thought it very interesting in parts, but very heavy reading!
05-08-2020
Not an easy read but very worthwhile, and those who persisted gave it a high score. The ability to track and trace through DNA back thousands of years is resulting in a re-write of much of our established anthropology - fascinating.
24-06-2020
This was not a successful book for everyone. A couple did not read it, but those who did, found it interesting, a challenge, and good for discussion.
23-03-2020
Not all got through the book in the time available. For some the science was too dense. Nevertheless, the combined insights gained gave rise to a good discussion.
17-07-2019
A bit wordy, people enjoyed some details. Fascinating topic, but a varied reaction in group. Some loved the scientific development.
17-07-2019
We all enjoyed and learned a lot from this wonderful book. It's easy to understand - it feels like he's talking to you, but never "down to you". Adam Rutherford is a great communicator. Highly recommended, and thanks for adding it to the BDS library.