Glowing Bunnies?! Why We’re Making Hybrids, Chimeras, and Clones

A chickenosaurus hatches, a liger stalks prey, and a cyborg rat zips through mazes in Campbell’s (Last of the Giants) unique look at animal bioengineering. An opening essay explains how genetic modification works, and explores questions concerning contemporary society’s interpretations of the science. In short, colorfully designed chapters accompanied by photos, the narrative delves into myriad accounts detailing genetic experiments, such as bringing back the extinct woolly mammoth to aid in the Siberian grasslands’ environmental rehabilitation and cultivation, and engineering lab-grown meats to feed a booming world population. Each section is followed by a brief spread on various fledgling experiments within the bioengineering space, including improving human bodies using genetic modification and “biohacking” single-celled organisms to create fuel. Campbell’s intriguing, easily digestible foray into animal gene editing, its effects on present and future scientific climates, and its contemplation on whether these practices are ethically responsible, practical, or inherently harmful proves thought-provoking. This enlightening work encourages readers to ask questions and conduct their own research, while maintaining that science continues evolving and changing faster than one can blink. Back matter includes an author’s note, glossary, and more. Ages 11–up. (May)