GLOWING BUNNIES!?

New tools have opened new avenues to genetic engineering of animals, living and dead. Is this a good idea?

This engaging introduction invites readers to form their own conclusions about the new world of genetic modifications. An opening essay provides an overview of the book’s structure, relatively simple explanations of how the process of genetic change works and new gene-editing technology, and some questions to consider about projects of this sort: Are they practical and effective? Are they socially and morally acceptable? Will genetic changes harm the animal (or other animals) in any way? In subsequent sections, further divided into short chapters, Campbell describes projects connected to animal conservation, the restoration of extinct animals and damaged ecosystems, our food, our pets, and our own health and medicine. Each major section is followed by a spread on a specific topic: genetic engineering, cryobanking, synthetic biology, and efforts to improve humans. The conversational text is comfortably accessible, broken up with frequent topic headings and photographs and enhanced by the colorful design. The examples—from ligers and tigons in zoos to the titular glowing bunnies created in a French lab and pigs for human organ transplants—are intriguing. The writer’s emphasis on animal welfare will resonate with his audience, and there is extensive backmatter for readers interested in going further.

A controversial subject presented with verve that allows readers to make up their own minds.