DNA USA: A Genetic Portrait of America [Paperback]

Bryan Sykes, one of the worlds leading geneticists and best-selling author ofIt may seem odd for the author of a book on human genetics and heredity to thank his travel agent in the acknowledgments, but in the case of this hybrid work of science and cross-country reportage its a fitting gesture& Sykes writes lucidly, creating his own unique mixture in a book that might be described asAs the author ofAn authority on ancient DNA analysis, Sykes provides a nontechnical introduction to how Y chromosomes and mitochondrial DNA may be used to reveal ancestral heritage. Combining in-depth interviews with volunteers along with these genetic techniques, he attempts to create a biological portrait of the United States. & These DNA portraits illustrate the complexity of human inheritance and how difficult it is to assign individuals to distinct groups.Starred review. Human genetics energetically elucidated, entertaining travel writing, the fascinating personal stories of DNA volunteers, and Sykes candid musings on his awakening to the complex emotional and social implications of hidden biological inheritances make for a milestone book guaranteed to ignite spirited discussion.Crisscrossing the continent, a renowned geneticist provides a groundbreaking examination of America through its DNA.