Mendel in 90 Minutes

by John Gribbin and Mary Gribbin

In this easy-to-read series, eminent science writers John and Mary Gribbin look at the lives and work of eight major scientists. Each book is accessible enough to be read for fun but informative... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0094771200
• ISBN13: 9780094771208
• Release Date: January 1997
• Publisher: Constable & Robinson
• Length: 80 Pages
• Weight: 0.24 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 4.8" x 7.9"

Customer Reviews

So That Is Why They Named The Science Building after Him!

I had always wanted to know more about Gregor Mendel since studying science in Mendel Hall during my high school days at Augustinian Academy. This book gave me that opportunity.Mendel was an interesting character. Known mostly for his work in the field of genetics, Mendel was not a one dimensional character. Born in Moravia of peasant (an honorable estate in the time and place) in 1822, the priesthood provided Mendel with his only chance to obtain an education.His entrance into the Augustinian Monastery at Brunn provided Mendel with an opportunity to purse his scientific studies without the distraction of worrying about earning a living. After ordination, Mendel taught at the equivalent of a high school.It was Mendel's work in genetics that made him a subject worthy of a biography. His work involved studies on the transmission of characteristics over generations of peas. Mendel's conclusions were in accord with some the theories of Charles Darwin, a fact which limited the promotion of his findings among his peers. His work did earn him the title of "Father of Genetics".Mendel's scientific work slowed with his election as Abbot in 1868. Mendel had desired the post because it enable him to financially help his family. I do not understand how this is consistent with his vow of poverty. As Abbot, Mendel dealt with issues of taxation, management of the monastic estates and offices in various scientific societies. Mendel died in 1884.I enjoyed learning more about Gregor Mendel than I had known before. I was disappointed in learning so little about his contributions to the religious life of his community. Overall this book is s worthwhile introduction to an interesting life which left me looking for more.