Genome by Matt Ridley

The first book I've ever read about genetics, this book guided me on a layman's tour of the human genome, pointing out one interesting gene on each chromosome. I need to work on my genetic language and cannot yet express freely my intrigue with any of the ideas presented because I simply lack the vocabulary. 

It was nice to have chemistry behind me which gave some insight into how substrates and enzymes function, and how methalization and other changes might take place. 

Mad cow disease turns out to be particularly interesting because it is not created by DNA or RNA yet affects genes. These prion molecules are scary and mysterious. Crazy to see just how vast our ignorance is. 

Some other interesting issues raised about nature vs. nurture and how impossible it is to separate cause and effect. Both genes and environment affect behavior and trying to determine which is more important is futile and pointless.

Lots of other stuff which I'm sure will become more clear as I learn biology and biochemistry...