Trace Your Roots with DNA: Use Your DNA to Complete Your Family Tree,   ISBN:9781594860065

Customer Rating: 

I agree with most of the positive statements made here by other reviewers. But, genetic genealogy is a field that is growing by leaps and bounds and much of the information in this book -- published more than 5 years ago as I write this review -- is outdated. Some websites they list as resources no longer work. Some statistics they quote are no longer valid.

So, if you're looking for a book to introduce you to the general topic, there's lots of great information to be found here. But if you buy this book, be prepared to be frustrated, as I was, by the amount of things that have changed since it was published.

I look forward to a second, updated edition!

Customer Rating: 

Helps to clarify the most commonly used terms in genetic genealogy. But goes off-topic with details concerning paternity tests, etc. Additionally it seems to go too far in making the case for forming online groups to identify potential connections. Would be a lot better if it stuck more to the topic of using genetics in genealogy and spent more time discussing the various tests in the marketplace and the existing sites associated with them.

Customer Rating: 

After slaving away at high school and college science classes I had completely lost any interest in the subject because I assumed it was too darn hard! But this book takes a HIGHLY complex subject, and with just a few backtracks on my part for clarity, takes, genetics, DNA, and the important differences between patriarchical/matrilineal and makes them meaningful and useful. Because I am working at establishing a tribal membership, the suggested sources and unique patterns to Native American DNA increased my confidence in applying. I am already in contact with a company they recommended for Native American tribal identification. Excellent and useful purchase.

Customer Rating: 

FOR ANYONE INTERESTED IN GENEALOGY, THE BOOK BY MEGAN SMOLENYAK TITLED TRACE YOUR ROOTS WITH DNA IS MOST INFORMATIVE. IT IS WELL WRITTEN AND EASY TO UNDERSTAND. I WOULD HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK FOR EITHER THE BEGINNING OR PROFESSIONAL GENEALOGIST.

Customer Rating: 

Megan Smolenyak Smolenyak - her real name - provides an excellent introduction of what DNA can and can not do in Genetic Genealogy.

Anyone starting their "Roots" research effort is advised to buy this book. It will help you save money by allowing DNA to focus on your line and not someone elses. Read the book for more details!