An extract of the full book provided by Netgalley (Ch 7).
This was an interesting and accessible read from Richard Dawkins newest book which explores how the genes of a species can be read as a book of its hereditary life lessons for survival. Chapter 7 'In Living Memory' looks at how lessons are learned through reward and pain, amongst other means. While none of the information is likely to be new to anyone with an interest in the field, it is a thoughtful and thought-provoking piece of writing. It references many famous experiments throughout and is peppered with dashes of wit and precise commentary. Dawkins makes a complex topic engaging for a mass audience.
Thoroughly recommended.

Dawkins’ upcoming title The Genetic Book of the Dead is divided into 13th chapters, and this extract is the 7th chapter with its end notes included.
As with his other work, Dawkins manages to strike the right balance between modern scientific writing and storytelling, and makes his research and analyses equally interesting and accessible.
I was not a fan of all the images (both illustrations and photos), and wondered if some of them could be more relevant or better quality.
I will surely read the full book based on this extract that goes into Skinner’s work, and contains Dawkins interesting analogies. It was informative.

Although the ARC only includes chapter 7, I found it fascinating and couldn't stop reading about natural selection. I was so engrossed that I felt disappointed when it suddenly ended. I was a bit frustrated because there was a reference to chapter 2, which I couldn't access. However, I am impressed by how this ARC offers an engaging and clear explanation of how we carry the genetic legacy of our ancestors while continually updating our molecular features. I love how it smoothly presents and explores the connections between humans and animals in an easily understandable way.