Engagingly written, linking examples from real life with "how things work", this text explains the basis for life in a way everyone can enjoy, understand and learn from — from high school student to college professor. Topics range from what vitamins are and how they work, to an updated view of the "central dogma" of molecular biology and genomics, to such specific issues as "steroids — sex and other good things" to the brain, including "good and not-so-good things". Should be essential reading for an informed public!