The DNA Book (Science Book)

Gr 5-8--Woollard and Gilbert introduce scientists such as Friedrich Miescher (the first to identify DNA as a distinct molecule), Maurice Wilkins (who shared the 1962 Nobel Prize with James Watson and Francis Crick), and Rosalind Franklin (who made a crucial contribution to the discovery of the double helix). Simple experiments are featured: Crush a strawberry and add rubbing alcohol to see DNA in real life (a precautionary warning is given about using rubbing alcohol). Other experiments include solving a crime with DNA profiling and cloning a plant. Colorful illustrations show cell particles with eyes, mouths, and arms. Stock photographs are intermixed throughout and provide close-ups of DNA, cell matter, mutations, and gene sequencing. The variation of text size, the flow of photos, and the eye-catching arrangement of information on each page are appealing. A time line from 1859 to 2003 highlights the major events of scientists learning about DNA. An in-depth glossary and index is included. VERDICT Excellent and appealing for readers who wish to peruse, as well as those seeking detailed information for report writing. A great resource for any library that needs to update this subject area.--Sandra Welzenbach, Villarreal Elementary School, San Antonio