Introductory book about Human Biology and/or Genetics

[SmiSmi]

I am interested in learning about human biology and genetics and would like to read a book or two in this area. I am not stupid, but I am not a scientist, so something at about the same intellectual level as Bill Bryson's "A Short History of Nearly Everything" would suit me nicely. Can anyone recommend any books, preferably which aren't too expensive?

[theprof]

Well, without being biased as a biochemistry professor myself, I'd get a copy of "Asimov's New Guide To Science". Here's a typical link although you might be able to get it cheaper elsewhere:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Asimovs-Guide-Science- Penguin-Press/dp/0140172130/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8 &s=books&qid=1225215285&sr=1-1

I had the honour of working with Isaac for a short while and I was astonished at his ability to explain complex chemical and biological concepts in terms that the layman can understand. Although the book has not been revised since his death in 1992 and a lot has moved on, it will still give you a good, readable grounding in what you want and more.

[theprof]

Oops, looks like it may have been published as a revised edition in 1993 according to that website. My mistake.