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Penguin acquires popular science title on genes

25.03.11 | Charlotte Williams

Penguin Press has acquired a non-fiction science title about a subset of genes and the story of their discovery, by Professor Daniel M Davis.

Editorial director Will Goodlad bought UK and Commonwealth rights in Compatibility on pre-empt via Caroline Hardman at the Christopher Little Literary Agency.

The book will focus on the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) genes and present a new argument that "a shocking amount of what we do and who we are is dictated by how our immune system fights disease", combining evidence from many different areas of research. Hardman described it as the "first ever popular book" on the subject.

Goodlad said: "The answer to an increasing number of questions seems to come down to one thing: the immune system. And yet, despite the central importance and fascination of this subject, there seems to be a real lack of understanding about it. We are incredibly excited that Dan Davis, one of the world"s leading researchers in this field - and a wonderful writer - is bringing us all this book.

"It promises to be of huge interest to experts and non-experts alike."

Professor Davis is head of immunology and infection at Imperial College, London. Penguin Press plans to publish in 2013.
 

• Charlotte Williams
• Penguin
• Rights deal
• Will Goodlad