School Library Journal Review

Gr 9 Up-This documentary explains how the body develops from a single cell to a baby who can make sense of the world. It explores variations in the human body, as well as disorders that can occur. Development within the womb is shown using incredibly realistic CGI animation. Segments focus on variations and disorders via sensitive interviews with people all over the globe. Three unique episodes cover the three trimesters of pregnancy. "The First 8 Weeks" looks at the effects of the growth gene, harmless genetic mutations like having six fingers, and proper prenatal conception. "One of a Kind" explores the development of sexual organs, intersexuality and transgender individuals, how the human face forms, and how a flood of testosterone in the brain at 15 weeks can lead to risk-taking and thrill seeking. "The Final Countdown" examines bone and blood development, the growth of the brain and its wiring, color blindness (a segment cleverly filmed in black-and-white), the development of the five senses, and the effects of stress on pregnancy. VERDICT With its amazing CGI and captivating interviews with wildly diverse groups of people, this DVD would be a worthwhile addition to a high school biology or anatomy class. The topics covered make for fine jumping-off points for class discussions.-Geri Diorio, Ridgefield Library, CT © Copyright 2016. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.