From DNA Newbie to Gene Genius: My Journey with 'The Complete Guide to Family Tree DNA'

Hey there, fellow genealogy enthusiasts! Some of you likely saw my posts on Facebook and LinkedIn announcing that I would be reviewing a couple genetic genealogy how-to books. Well, the wait is over, and I'm thrilled to share my thoughts with you!

Joe Garonzik, the Marketing Director at Genealogical.com, recently reached out to me with an exciting proposition: review two cutting-edge books on genetic genealogy. Talk about a DNA-lover's dream come true!

Today, we're diving into the first of these literary gems: "The Complete Guide to Family Tree DNA" by Roberta Estes. 

The Complete Package: From Roadmap to Research

Let's take a step back and look at the big picture of what "The Complete Guide to Family Tree DNA" offers. It's like a Swiss Army knife for genetic genealogy – it's got all the tools you need, and then some!

1. Your DNA Roadmap: The book kicks off by helping you chart your course. It's like a genetic travel agent, helping you figure out which DNA tests you need to answer your burning questions without breaking the bank. Budget-friendly ancestry hunting? Yes, please!
2. The Science Deep Dive: Hold onto your lab coats, because this book isn't afraid to get scientific. For some of us (guilty as charged), this part might make our eyes glaze over a bit. But for those who love to know the "why" behind the "what," this section is a goldmine of information.
3. Tools of the Trade: Here's where the rubber meets the road. The book walks you through, step by step, how to use the various tools and read the many reports Family Tree DNA offers. It even offers many illustrations and screenshots to help you find and use the tools. So if you are a visual learner like me, this is a must! It's like having a personal DNA tour guide, showing you how to decode what your genetic data is whispering about your matches. And it doesn't stop there – the book even briefly discusses third-party tools like Clustering and DNA Painter, giving you a peek into the broader world of genetic genealogy resources.
4. From Analysis to Ancestors: The final piece of the puzzle! The book doesn't just leave you with a bunch of data – it helps you take that analysis and apply it to your research. Whether you're hunting for ancestors, exploring your ethnic origins, or trying to write your family's genetic story, this book has got your back.

Final Thoughts

"The Complete Guide to Family Tree DNA" is truly a game-changer in the world of genetic genealogy. It's taken me from the basics of test selection to the intricacies of chromosome browsing. I even have my next project planned, how cool is that!

What sets this book apart is its ability to cater to every level of genetic genealogist. Whether you're a newbie just dipping your toes into the DNA pool, or a seasoned pro looking to dive deeper, this book has something for you. It breaks down complex scientific concepts into bite-sized, digestible pieces, while still offering enough depth to satisfy the most curious minds.

But it's not just about theory – this book is a practical toolkit for solving real genealogical mysteries. The author even uses her own family research to show real life scenarios and results. It's become my trusty companion for everything from breaking down brick walls in my Jenkins line to uncovering elusive Native American heritage.

The comprehensive coverage – from account settings to advanced analysis techniques – makes it an invaluable resource. And with its focus on Family Tree DNA, it's become my go-to guide for navigating this powerful platform.

But wait, there's more! Remember, this is just the first part of our genetic journey. Stay tuned for my upcoming review of "DNA for Native American Genealogy" – the second book in this dynamic duo. Trust me, you won't want to miss it!

Happy exploring, gene geniuses! May your family trees grow tall and wide, and your DNA matches be plentiful. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have some more reading to do. See you on the flip side for our next DNA adventure!