Genes are what make you YOU! With 46 illustrations and easy-to-read captions, this book explains that genes are "chemical instructions" that living things need in order to stay alive and reproduce. Learn about genes and DNA, what genes control and how they are passed along from one generation to the next, and lots more about this fascinating subject. Perfect for ages 8 and up, it will spark children's curiosity and help foster their interest in science. AGES: 8 plus AUTHORS: An accomplished science and nature illustrator, Patricia J. Wynne is the recipient of the 2008 Theodor Seuss Geisel Honor and has won awards from Parenting magazine, the John Burroughs Association, and the National Science Teachers Association. Patricia's artwork has appeared in galleries, magazines, newspapers, and more than 100 books for both children and adults. She is the illustrator of numerous successful Dover titles on science and nature, including My First Book About Outer Space and My First Book About the Body. Trained as a research scientist, Donald M. Silver has written more than 80 books for students of all ages and for teachers. His One Small Square series takes a close-up look at plants and animals where they live. He has won numerous awards including the Children's Science Writing Award in Physics and Astronomy from the American Institute of Physicists. He lives in New York City where he has worked with Patricia J. Wynne since 1981 and with whom he has co-authored numerous successful Dover titles on science and nature, including the "My First Book" series.