The Code Breaker

March 1, 2022
A trimmed--but still hefty--young readers' adaptation of Isaacson's much-admired 2021 original. Substantial discussions of gene tailoring's promise and thorny ethical quandaries expand this story of how researchers discovered a mechanism that bacteria use to "remember" and nullify attacking viruses and how they have leveraged it with maladies from sickle cell anemia to Covid-19. The work centers pioneering researcher Doudna--tracing her Nobel Prize-winning achievements but also situating her in a teeming international community of fellow researchers whose relationships are fueled by a fizzy mix of egos and altruism. Young readers may be more interested in Doudna's discoveries than the details of a midlife existential reckoning or a fence-mending web chat with a formerly close colleague. But along with some photos, there are vivid word portraits of her as well as fellow scientists, from James Watson ("difficult and complicated") to He Jiankui, whose "thirst for fame" led in 2018 to his inserting genomic alterations into viable human embryos. That episode demonstrated that we actually can "hack evolution," for better or worse: "It's good that some people have strong opinions about gene engineering in humans, but it's even better if you know what a gene actually is." If some passages read like acronymic word salad, the whole package offers a stimulating and topical case study in how rewarding science can be when it's "letting data dance with big ideas." An index and resource list would have been helpful. Ambitious in scope; a distinctively nuanced picture of modern science in action. (endnotes) (Nonfiction. 13-18)

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April 15, 2022
Grades 7-10 This biography of Jennifer Doudna, a genetic researcher who won the 2020 Nobel Prize in Chemistry with Emmanuelle Charpentier for their work with CRISPR--a genome-editing system instrumental in the development of COVID-19 vaccines--is based on the 2021 adult title of the same name. This version covers Doudna's life and career, including technical explanations of her groundbreaking work in molecular biology and RNA research. Doudna's story serves as an inspirational model for young women who intend to pursue a career in science. Despite dealing with dismissive teachers, misogynistic discrimination, funding fights, patent feuds, restrictive government regulations, biohacking, and ethical challenges, Doudna has always persisted. The text refers repeatedly to her unwavering determination and her willingness to take risks, and maintains an upbeat, problem-solving tone. Coverage is current (Dr. Fauci makes an appearance), and readers will undoubtedly comprehend the urgency of developing new vaccines. It's also exciting to read about a contemporary scientist (Doudna was born in 1964). This offering should be promoted and prominently displayed on STEM-collection shelves.

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