Did the human race almost go extinct?

Can genetics explain a crazy cat lady’s love for felines?

How does DNA lead to people with no fingerprints, or humans born with tails?

And how did the right combination of genes create the exceptionally flexible thumbs and fingers of a truly singular violinist?

Unraveling the genetic code hasn’t always been easy—from its earliest days, genetics has been rife with infighting, backstabbing, and controversial theories—but scientists can now finally read the astounding stories inscribed in our DNA. As we make advances into DNA mapping and modification, genetics will continue to be the hottest topic in science, shaping the very makeup of our bodies and the world around us.

With the same masterful combination of science, history, and culture he brought to The Disappearing Spoon, Sam Kean untangles the secrets of our genetic code, explaining how genetics has shaped our past, and how DNA will determine humankind’s future.

SAM KEAN is a writer in Washington, D.C. He is the author of the New York Times national bestseller The Disappearing Spoon, which was also a runner-up for the Royal Society’s book of the year for 2011. His work has appeared in the New York Times Magazine, Mental Floss, Slate, and New Scientist, and has been featured on NPR’s Radiolab and All Things Considered.

Listen to Terry Gross interview Sam Kean on Fresh Air.

All Authors Series events are free; however, registration and printed tickets are required to attend the event.

Tickets will be granted in the order which registration is received.

Events generally consist of a talk by the author and a Q&A period with the audience followed by a book signing. Books are sold on-site by Joseph Fox Bookshop.

Seating begins 15 minutes prior to event start time.

Questions about Authors Series events? Please call 215-898-3955 or email specialevents@wistar.org.

This event is presented in partnership with WHYY.