My Name is Gene is an extremely easy to read, down to earth science book that middle school students can really get in to. In simple, everyday layman's terms, Doctors N.C. Bailey and N.L. Eskeland explain the perplexing world of biotechnology and genetics. They explain the miraculous works of God in everything from the structure and job of DNA, to Mendel's heredity experiments, to the cloning of animals.

Students are given the exercises throughout the text, which brings a better understanding of the laws involved in such a complicated subject. By the end of this course, students will have a good understanding of basic genetics, including cell structure, cell reproduction, Mendel's heredity experiments, and dominant and recessive genes, as well as an introduction to biotechnology in relationship to cloning and mutations. They don't beat around the bush about their belief that cloning is wrong, but do feel the medical advances involving cloning are extremely important.

There is no mistake as to who the authors give credit to for the creation of DNA. Each chapter begins with a Bible verse, and the entire text is written from a Christian perspective giving credit to the Lord, as well as commentaries on Biblical principles and ethics in the scientific community. The authors have also published a secular version of the material, without any Christian references. The name of this text is Call me Gene. It is the same material used in the My Name is Gene text.

The companion workbook for both texts is Fun with Gene. The student should have finished the text, and have a good understanding of the material before beginning the workbook. The first section of the workbook involves solving "cases." Real cases involving diseases, as well as historical mysteries, are used. The workbook also points out the chapter in the text that the exercise relates to, making it easier for the student. Section 2 has hands-on activities and games, such as word searches, crossword puzzles, and even an experiment to extract DNA from an onion, which seems a little extravagant for the homeschool, but interesting. Section 3 reviews the structure of DNA and RNA, as well as mutation and the structure of the cell. There is a teacher's edition available as well.

You can find the whole Gene series online at www.science2discover.com, or call 1-888-359-6075. All in all, the "Gene" series is a great introduction to genetics. It's interesting, colorful, and easily understood. It is a solid choice for your middle schooler's science curriculum.



-- Product Review by: Rory Slaughter, The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine