Member Reviews
Covers very useful information and breaks it down in a way that almost everyone will be able to understand. There are sources listed to allow you to followup and do more research on your own. It's an overwhelming prospect to undertake trying to possibly find family using DNA - and that's predicated on those biological family members also having used the same service, and then whether or not they want to be found - so having a book/guide like this is something I would recommend anyone who's looking to search for biological family via means of DNA to read, not just those who have been adopted.
The sub-title of this book is a little misleading. There are reasons why even DNA will not solve an adoptee's questions, there are families that prefer to remain "lost"
That being said, the information related about DNA and the science behind its use is excellent. The book is organized clearly and written quite conversationally. I gained valuable tips and methodology that I will put to use and share. The Adoptee's Guide to DNA Testing is a reference book that will benefit genealogists at all levels.
Weinberg's useful guide intended to assist adoptees in their quest to identify birth families is beneficial to anyone wanting to gain a better understanding of genetic genealogy. She explains the types of tests offered, the testing companies offering each, and a bit about the differences in the results. She then offers information on how to reach out to matches, how to make use of GEDmatch's tools, and using other third party tools. She closes with several case studies designed to inspire those seeking their families. Appendices include frequently asked questions and worksheets which could be adapted to Excel spreadsheets to help keep track of genetic genealogy research. The book contains an index. Any book on genetic genealogy will likely be out-of-date on at least one or two points by the time it is printed. Her frequently asked questions poses a question about the safety of testing results. It is clear the section was written before the announcement concerning the Golden State Killer's discovery through using genetic genealogy databases. Several more arrests were made using the databases after this. I suspect the next edition will include a "caution" statement although it won't discourage the use of the databases for most individuals. I wish she had covered more third party tools, although I'm certain the editors were trying to keep the book a manageable size. The illustrations help the reader visualize the information presented. This book belongs in most libraries and private genealogy collections along with Blaine Bettinger and Debbie Parker Wayne's <i>Practical Genetic Genealogy</i> and Blaine Bettinger's <i>The Family Tree Guide to DNA Testing and Genetic Genealogy</i>. I will be ordering my own copy and recommending it in my DNA lectures and workshops. This review is based on an electronic advance copy received through NetGalley with the expectation an honest review would be written.
#TheAdoptee'sGuideToDnaTesting #NetGalley #Genealogy #Heritage
An excellent handbook for any person looking to recreate the genealogy tree. the book covers subjects such as the 101 genealogy, ADN, the most used ADN online search services, the famous GEDMatch, modern techniques and very usuful real cases.