In another part of the environmental forest, Roy Burdon鈥檚 The Suffering Gene (Zed Books, 拢12.99/$19.95) is an unexpectedly satisfying review of the environmental threats to our genes. From gender-bending chemicals to genetic engineering, free radicals to mobile phones, this is as honest, clear and salutary a guide as you will find.
More perspectives from the front line, this time of ecology, in Edward Wilson鈥檚 latest prizewinner, The Future of Life (Abacus, 拢8.99). The great man is living on his reputation here, and some gripping early writing gives way to rather routine conservation proselytising.