The Violinist's Thumb

And other extraordinary true stories as written by our DNA

By: Sam Kean

Write A Review

Paperback | 16 May 2013 | Edition Number 1

At a Glance

Paperback
496 Pages

Dimensions(cm)
20 x 12.5 x 3

Paperback

RRP $47.99

$37.95

21%OFF

or 4 interest-free payments of $9.49 with

Aims to ship in 25 to 30 business days

The epic true story of human DNA and what it can tell us about our world

Did the human race almost go extinct? Can genetics explain a cat lady's love for felines? How does DNA lead to people with no fingerprints or humans born with tails? And how did the right combination of genes create the exceptionally flexible thumbs and fingers of a truly singular violinist?

Unravelling the genetic code hasn't always been easy - from its earliest days, genetics has been rife with infighting, backstabbing and controversial theories - but scientists can now finally read the astounding stories inscribed in our DNA. As we make advances into DNA mapping and modification, genetics will continue to be the hottest topic in science, shaping the very make-up of our bodies and the world around us.

With the same masterful combination of science, history and culture he brought to The Disappearing Spoon, Sam Kean untangles the secrets of our genetic code, explaining how genetics has shaped our past and how DNA will determine humankind's future.

Industry Reviews

Summer's must-read non-fiction book * Huffington Post *
The Violinist's Thumb is one of the Ten Books to Look Out for in 2012 * New Scientist *
A fast-paced, breezy romp through history using DNA as a unifying theme... it's nerd-vana * New Scientist *
Explored in his Bryson-esque style, [The Violinist's Thumb] provokes fascinating stuff, full of oddball stories and amazing facts. Kean's book is full of wonderfully weird anecdotes, but it's also an accessible history of the discovery and mapping of DNA... compellingly entertaining * Daily Mail *
Sam Kean is the best science teacher you never had * Entertainment Weekly *

Shipping

	Standard Shipping	Express Shipping
Metro postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95
Regional postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95
Rural postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95

How to return your order

At Booktopia, we offer hassle-free returns in accordance with our returns policy. If you wish to return an item, please get in touch with Booktopia Customer Care.

Additional postage charges may be applicable.