Book Review: The Double Helix
W. W. Norton & Company, New York, 1980, Gunther S. Stent, ISBN 0-393-95075-1, 298 pages, paperback

The first portion of the book (about half) is the story of the discovery of the DNA structure by Watson and Crick, written by James Watson. A rather easy read about the personalities and the nebulous world of relations among dozens of incredibly bright people who populate the various research laboratories, conferences, and learned publications around the world, and how two men combined their interests and unique styles of thinking to uncover one of the world’s greatest mysteries.
This book, initially entitled “Honest Jim,” was banned by Harvard after threats of lawsuits from Crick and Wilkins due to the many personal attacks found therein. Rewritten and retitled, the book was eventually published by Atheneum Press, another scientific publishing house.
The second section is Francis Crick’s short version of their journey of discovery.
The third portion is an almost unfathomable piece written by Linus Pauling, who recounts his attempts and mistakes while seeking to solve the problem.
Fourth is a short piece by Rosalind Franklin’s research partner, Aaron Klug, who suggests that Rosalind was quite close to making the discovery through her work in X-ray crystallography.
Then come the reviews by scientists from around the world. While these are interesting, they are also an often-tough read.
This book also contains 13 scientific reviews of “The Double Helix”, a well-established practice whereby peers offer their opinions of the work (and the authors). But first, we have a review of the 13 reviews! A review of reviews!
Interestingly, the book was initially banned by Harvard University, supposedly because it contained too many personal attacks on others. Nevertheless, the reviews are interesting if you have the energy to work through them. Watson’s short book is far more readable.
Finally, we have copies of the original scientific papers that were submitted for publication and criticism. The paper on the structure of DNA is concise; only 900 words. Again, a glimpse into the scary bright minds of the originators.
So now you have been given a peek into the window of the world of scientific creativity, with all its aggression, egos, competitiveness, and the rush to be first to publish. Of course, personalities clash, egos are bruised, and the players are all but too human. Nevertheless, you will enjoy the journey.
Ron Gilmore
Last Updated: November 17, 2024
Email: rvg3@me.com
Website: https://rgenealogy.ca