Watson & Crick and DNA

James Watson and Francis Crick rocked the world of science fifty years ago this week with their three-dimensional description of DNA. Their discovery of deoxyribonucleic acid's make-up and double helix form opened a new frontier in the study of genetics. Here are just a few of the great books KPL has on the subject of DNA and genetics, check them out!

In Pursuit of the Gene: From Darwin to DNA

The Genetic Strand: Exploring Family History Through DNA

Francis Crick: Discoverer of the Genetic Code

NPR (National Public Radio) has a great article about Watson and Crick called, The DNA Revolution, that is well worth reading. I hope it peaks everyone's curiosity.

In Defense of Food

OK I admit it, I love food and I love to eat! That's why I was so interested in reading In Defense Of Food: An Eater's Manifesto. The relationship between people and food is a subject author, Michael Pollan, explores often in his writing. Pollan's focus with this book is to "help us reclaim our health and happiness as eaters", which intrigued me. There have been so many books written about the subject of food and diets that it is overwhelming.

Pollan takes a step-back point of view with this confusing and complicated subject and offers a fresh perspective. He discusses the ideology of nutritionism and the roles of the food industry, nutrition science, and journalism. He looks at how food has become the "sum of their nutrients", the complexity of our modern food products, and what he calls "foodlike substances".

I feel that he offers a thoughtful big-picture approach to eating throughout his book. Even if you do not agree with all of his opinions, you think about what you eat and how you eat in a different way. I know I did. Check out Michael Pollan's other books at KPL, too!