Dark Inheritance Author:W. Michael Gear, Kathleen O'Neal Gear At the behest of a wealthy geneticist researching the minute genetic differences that separate humans from chimpanzees and control the way the two species think and learn, a number of U.S. scientists have been asked to raise and study bonobo chimpanzees in their homes. One such chimp is Umber, placed with Dr. Jim Dutton, an anthropology professo... more »r. Umber, however, is startlingly different from the other chimpanzees Dutton has studied. Quick to learn, Umber soon acquires a prodigious sign language vocabulary and manipulates the computer, tools, and kitchen appliances with remarkable ease. After comparing notes with other host families, Dutton starts wondering if the chimps were somehow altered. The question galvanizes Dutton and Canadian journalist Valerie Radin to seek the trutha truth that will soon lead to a horrifying discovery An anthropological/archaeological writing team, the Gears have achieved international success with their USA Today bestselling First North Americans prehistory series, whose 10 titles in print have sold over eight million copies in the U.S. and Canada. The Visitant (Tor, 8/99), the Gears modern-day archaeological mystery, has over 50,000 hardcover copies in print.« less
Well-written, suspenseful, and thought-provoking story. It was unlike other (historical fiction) books I've read by these authors, and more like a Michael Crichton story. Enjoyable!