Merino, Noel. Genetic Engineering.

Merino, Noel.  Genetic Engineering.  Cengage (Gale/Blackbirch/Greenhaven)     2013  227p  ISBN 978-0-7377-6425-3  series: Opposing Viewpoints     jr/sr  E   Nonfiction 

Dealing with a topic that concerns and affects many people of all ages, this book uses selected readings to look at genetic engineering as well as its effects on society and the environment. These are written by a wide variety of authors who discuss the issue in ways readers will find accessible, engaging, and relevant to their lives. The readings cover a fairly diverse array of opinions and issues surrounding genetic engineering, from the idea of designer offspring to the risks or non-risks of consuming genetically modified foods. Most of the pieces are between six and ten pages in length, and each includes an overview of the piece and three questions for readers to consider as they read it.  It is relatively important to note that articles in Greenhaven Press anthologies are often edited to meet page length requirements, and the original titles of works may be changed to clearly present the main thesis and indicate the author's opinion.  This means readers must assume that the material has not misrepresented the original author's opinion, or else be able to find the source material and verify the matter. It is not difficult to find original sources, however, as the editors make every effort to cite the source on the first page of each article.  At the end of each chapter there is a list of suggested readings on related subjects, and the last portion of the book includes a section on organizations to contact for more information.

The Opposing Viewpoints series presents previously published writings on a variety of controversial subjects in order to demonstrate alternative or opposing views and encourage readers to think critically about assumptions and bias.  

Summary: This title offers balanced pro/con articles about the issues surrounding genetic engineering both in food products and in people. These articles are written by a wide variety of authoritative voices that discuss the issues in ways readers will find accessible, engaging, and relevant to their lives.     

Genetic engineering                                  --Bethany Geleskie