DISCOVERING LIFE’S STORY

An overview of scientific research into genetics.

Hakim dives into the stories of scientists who explored the structure and function of cells and teased apart the mysteries of “the code that carries the instructions that make us who we are.” Thirteen chronological chapters interweave breakthroughs in cell research with major social, political and technological factors that facilitated advancements, such as better microscopes, advances in photography, and a new culture of collaboration. The book also covers setbacks and dead ends, which helps readers better understand how scientific progress is made (“Science is full of wrong conclusions.…Even brilliant thinkers can make mistakes”). Hakim emphasizes the cooperative nature of research and discovery and highlights contributors whose work went unacknowledged due to racism and sexism, including Ernest Everett Just and Rosalind Franklin; she profiles some of these figures in eye-catching text boxes with colorful backgrounds. The present-tense narration immerses readers in the drama of discovery, such as when early-1900s Columbia University researchers studied Drosophila melanogaster in the Fly Room (“That’s the kind of mutation Morgan has been waiting for!”). The frequent illustrations, bold design, chapter heading quotations, and approachable writing style provide teen appeal. Though the scientific content grows increasingly complex as the book covers subjects such as transfer RNA and messenger RNA, Hakim presents the big-picture ideas clearly and closes by setting the stage for the next series entry.

Rivetingly told, with an eye to inclusive coverage and collaborative efforts.