As a retired high school biology teacher I found this book compelling. With some nonfiction books, even ones you enjoy, you don't always feel compelled to pick it up and read because there are always fun mysteries or interesting dramas tugging at you to read them instead. I found myself uninterested in reading a novel during the time I read Future Humans. Every time I set it down I wanted to hurry with my chores and so I could get back to it.
That said, I don't know that this book will interest a large audience. It is very science-y, but in an interesting way. If you are familiar with the basics of cells and DNA you will do fine. I learned so much. One of the reasons I read is to cause more connections between my brain cells. I could almost feel a few of them glowing at times!
Now that the Human Genome Project is finished researcher are starting a program to map the DNA of all the bacteria and other tiny creatures that live inside and on humans. Humans living in urban situations tend to have the least diversity of microorganism. Everywhere else in nature it is better to have great diversity. Have we killed off so much of our good bacteria that we won't be able to adapt to a crisis? Just one of the interesting topics discussed. I've read for years about building up good bacteria in our guts and I take a probiotic every day in hopes of doing that.
There's a section about sexual selection that was interesting. Also, what is technology doing to aid and hinder reprodution of the species.
Future Humans gives a great overview and provides a good basis to hook future information. I'd highly recommend to anyone who reads the jacket and feels some interest in this subject.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from The Yale University Press and NetGalley. This review reflects my honest opinions. No compensation was received.**
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