NextGen Genealogy: The DNA Connection

(Paperback)

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Description

DNA testing can serve as a powerful tool that unlocks the hidden information within our bodies for family history research. This book explains how genetic genealogy works and answers the questions of genealogists and individuals seeking information on their family trees. Now that DNA testing for genealogical purposes has existed for nearly a decade and a halfand been refined and improved during that timeit has established its value among family history researchers. It is now becoming accepted as another tool in the kit of well-rounded genealogists. This book covers this fast-growing application of genetics, empowering genealogists to apply this information to further their research. It will also enable general readers to understand how genetic information can be applied to verify or refute documentary researchand to break down frustrating walls that block the discovery of ancestors. The book describes the three major categories of DNA testing for family history research: Y-chromosome tests for investigating paternal (surname) lines, mitochondrial tests for investigating maternal (umbilical) lines, and autosomal tests for exploring close relationships. Expert genealogist David Dowell provides guidance on deciding which test to take and identifying which members of your family should be tested to answer your most important genealogical questions. Readers will also learn how to interpret the results of tests and methods for further analysis to get additional value from them.

Reviews

NextGen would be a good introductory book . . . . I came away with a good understanding of DNA and why genealogists want to use it. Mr. Dowell is a good writer, and has written an excellent DNA book for those who are utilizing this set of information to establish family lines. * Eastman's Online Genealogy Newsletter *
NextGen Genealogy is a must-read for anyone who is new to genetic genealogy and wants to learn how to apply DNA testing to their genealogical research. You will appreciate Dowell's breezy, conversational writing style, which keeps the subject matter from coming across as too academic or technical. Each chapter is sourced with detailed footnotes, and a glossary of genetic genealogy terms is included at the back of the book. While I do not consider myself to be a DNA novice, I found NextGen Genealogy to be an enjoyable and educational read, and I highly recommend it. * FGS Forum Magazine *

Author Bio

David R. Dowell, PhD, is an author and genealogist who has been researching his family history since the 1960s. He is the manager of two surname DNA projects and was an academic librarian for 35 years.