Southern History Book of the Month: The Family Tree Guide to DNA Testing and Genetic Genealogy
by Mary Anne Ellis, Southern History Department, Central Library
The Family Tree Guide to DNA Testing and Genetic Genealogy
Blaine T. Bettinger
If you’ve read the Harry Potter books or seen the films, you know that Harry is often told that he looks like his father—except for his eyes. “You have your mother’s eyes.” Many of us generally think of genetics only as it pertains to family traits like hair and eye color or certain health conditions, but genetics for genealogical research is a trend that shows no signs of slowing down. If you are interested in genetic testing to help you seek out ancestors and relatives, Blaine Bettinger’s The Family Tree Guide to DNA Testing and Genetic Genealogy is an excellent place to start your research.
Bettinger, the creator of The Genetic Genealogist blog, starts with the basics of genetic genealogy, rightly pointing out that “Genealogical records are not perfect. Our ancestors had poor memories just like we do. They bent the truth to make themselves younger or seem more favorable just like we do, and they made up stories just like we do . . . Trapped within your DNA, however, are the stories of your ancestors.” Some research into genetic genealogy can possibly solve that family mystery and break down that brick wall that’s been frustrating you and halting your progress for years. Bettinger begins with a short history of DNA testing with its medical and genealogical applications, followed by “Common Misconceptions” about DNA research. There is a thorough examination of basic and advanced terminology, including some of the thorny issues that can arise if you are an adoptee who is interested in locating family members, along with some speculations about future developments that may increase the accuracy of your results from a DNA test.
For the researcher at any level, beginning, intermediate, or advanced, this is an excellent guide to keep handy when you get your test results back and start to interpret them—be sure to take a look at the research forms that will help you sort out all those cousins. Or if you’re still in the early stages, you may want to consult the chart that gives you suggestions for how to choose a testing company depending on the results you are trying to find.
Also, if you’re interested in genetic genealogy, don’t miss our upcoming Beyond the Basics of Genealogy class on April 7: “Map Your DNA.”
Good luck with your research!
For further information:
International Society of Genetic Genealogy
“7 Resources to Get You Started with Genetic Genealogy”
Introduction to Genetic Genealogy
FamilySearch Wiki: DNA Basics
“How to Choose the DNA Testing Kit That’s Best for You”
Blaine T. Bettinger
If you’ve read the Harry Potter books or seen the films, you know that Harry is often told that he looks like his father—except for his eyes. “You have your mother’s eyes.” Many of us generally think of genetics only as it pertains to family traits like hair and eye color or certain health conditions, but genetics for genealogical research is a trend that shows no signs of slowing down. If you are interested in genetic testing to help you seek out ancestors and relatives, Blaine Bettinger’s The Family Tree Guide to DNA Testing and Genetic Genealogy is an excellent place to start your research.
Bettinger, the creator of The Genetic Genealogist blog, starts with the basics of genetic genealogy, rightly pointing out that “Genealogical records are not perfect. Our ancestors had poor memories just like we do. They bent the truth to make themselves younger or seem more favorable just like we do, and they made up stories just like we do . . . Trapped within your DNA, however, are the stories of your ancestors.” Some research into genetic genealogy can possibly solve that family mystery and break down that brick wall that’s been frustrating you and halting your progress for years. Bettinger begins with a short history of DNA testing with its medical and genealogical applications, followed by “Common Misconceptions” about DNA research. There is a thorough examination of basic and advanced terminology, including some of the thorny issues that can arise if you are an adoptee who is interested in locating family members, along with some speculations about future developments that may increase the accuracy of your results from a DNA test.
Also, if you’re interested in genetic genealogy, don’t miss our upcoming Beyond the Basics of Genealogy class on April 7: “Map Your DNA.”
Good luck with your research!
For further information:
International Society of Genetic Genealogy
“7 Resources to Get You Started with Genetic Genealogy”
Introduction to Genetic Genealogy
FamilySearch Wiki: DNA Basics
“How to Choose the DNA Testing Kit That’s Best for You”
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