G is for Genes: The Impact of Genetics on Education and Achievement.

Abstract

When I received this, I pictured myself conducting a review of the technical—scientific aspects of a pedagogic manuscript that 'mentions' genetics in its contents. However, there are no words to describe my surprise while perusing the copy. 'G is for Genes' is a well-balanced interpretation of the biopsychosocial model. Its contents are well structured, consolidated, and, most of all, structured with a proper basis. When reading between the lines, you can grasp all the years of hard work the authors have conducted in their respective fields. I was delighted with their skills in presenting the structure of this topic in a persuasive fashion. 'G is for Genes' is a book that describes the importance of genotyping in the coming generations as the basis for education's individualization. This is evident by early-stage identification of the innate aptitude of the child, and by establishing standardized but flexible behaviors adapted to the individual needs to ultimately promote suitable stimuli for altering environmental factors. As a critic with a scientific/clinical view, the hard data management that sustains this new pedagogic trend proposed by the authors has left me with a good after-taste. The book clearly states and completely harmonizes the concept that health is today's world trend (at least for the viewpoint of my area of expertise): Individualization of treatment based on the kitchen recipe for each person—their genes. I want to emphasize the complete picture presented from the genetic perspective: specifically the intricate details surrounding SNP discovery, to the potential impact in and on macro economies. Even though the approach and basis of their thesis is strong and excellently structured, I sense a lack of fluency in the structured methodology required to form an educational model that can be implemented in ordinary schools. Taking into account the high cost of genotyping, it is unlikely to be embraced or used in developmental countries such as Mexico in the near future (it is prudent to note that 'Mexico' is mentioned in the book as a country that can benefit from this model). 'G is for Genes' is a futuristic and controversial book, with excellent background and painless presentation. 'Controversial', in my opinion, is the parting point for changes and improvement, and 'futuristic' is today's tomorrow. I conclude this review by stating that the book should be directed not only to teachers, pedagogues and scientists, but also to all parents, since this is an excellent tool to promote optimal development of our children based on their individual characteristics and not merely social statistics.