The Boy Who Wasn't Short

human stories from the revolution in genetic medicine

By: Edwin Kirk

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Paperback | 13 May 2021

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Paperback
288 Pages

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23.4 x 15.3

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$42.50

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Genes - we all have them and we're all affected by them, often in unknown ways.

Whether directly inherited or modified by our environment, genes control or significantly influence almost every aspect of our lives. From the success of our conception and the development of our sexual characteristics, to the colour of our skin, hair, and eyes. From our height and weight, to our daily health. And, unfortunately, our genes are involved in an untold number of diseases. For many, the first time that genetics truly matters is in a doctor's office as they learn about a condition that may affect them, their unborn children, or even their wider family. Yet from the first laborious survey of the human genome twenty years ago to the commercial machines that now sequence 6,000 genomes per year, a revolution is taking place in medicine. Genetic screening is already available for major diseases and will become an increasingly prevalent medical tool. Around the world, teams of researchers are working on cures for diseases such as cancer, certain degenerative disorders, and a host of syndromes, while others are inventing new ways to conceive - and even modifying our genome in ways that could change what it means to be human.

Navigating this world of heartbreaking uncertainties, tantalising possibilities, and thorny questions of morality is Professor Edwin Kirk, who in addition to having over two decades of experience is that rare doctor who works both in the lab and with patients. In The Genes That Make Us, he explains everything you need to know with humour, insight, and great humanity.

Industry Reviews

'This is an excellent book that explores the history, ethics, patient stories, and explanations of science in a sensitive and relatable way. It is a very readable book that does not overwhelm the reader with scientific facts. It takes a complicated topic in medicine and makes genetics accessible to a wider audience.'

-- Judges' citation from the 2022 BMA medical book awards

'Admirable ... With great precision and detail, Dr Kirk explores the unexpected ways in which our genes shape our lives ... A renowned geneticist, Kirk is also a capable writer. He is humorous, modest, insightful, and humane.'

-- Kevin O'Sullivan * Irish Examiner *

'This new book sets out to share the experiences and anecdotes of a career in genetic medicine more than two-decades long, while narrating segments of the history of genetic pathology and exploring the world of genes today and to come ... Kirk makes effective use of footnotes to deflate the academic style and maintain a sense of personality and fun.'

-- David Ferrell * Canberra Times *

'Both an account of the human stories at the heart of Kirk's practice and a beginner's guide to genetic medicine, The Genes That Make Us tells of the significant progress that has been made in genetics over the past two decades, while also signalling how far there is left to travel.'

-- Diane Stubbings * Australian Book Review *

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