Book Review: DNA for Native American Genealogy

by Roberta Estes. Genealogical Publishing Co., 2021. 176 pages.

The following book review was written by Bobbi King:

Roberta Estes is a popular lecturer and master educator on Native American research. She writes her blog https://dna-explained.com where a wealth of information offers researchers the latest methodologies and resources for genealogists exploring their Native American heritage. 

Ms. Estes, a prodigious author on genetic genealogy, is featured prominently at the Native Heritage Project at www.nativeheritageproject.com. Her authority on Native genealogy is grounded in meticulous research and historical context.

DNA for Native American Genealogy fills a critical gap in genealogy research, addressing the unique challenges and opportunities in researching Native ancestry. The book is divided into major sections: 

“Seeking Native Ancestors” is a discussion of tribal membership and the First Nations of Canada, cultural appropriation, and the Genealogical Proof Standard;

“Ethnicity and Population Genetics” is a discussion of the DNA complexities of tracing and discovering Native ancestry;

“DNA Testing Vendors and Autosomal Tools” is a discussion of the advantages and unique information available from the four major DNA vendors;

“Mitochondrial DNA - Ancient and Modern” and “Y DNA - Ancient and Modern” analyzes and interprets the different DNA tests utilized in researching Native American heritage; and 

“Your Roadmap and Checklist” is a short, helpful, chapter guide for charting the tasks, tools, and status of your project.

A glossary defines the scientific terms and clarifies the DNA terminology.

The generous use of charts, graphs, illustrations and maps offer visual aids that complement the technical instruction. Plenty of white space rests the eye and eases the comprehension for the brain, and provides plenty of space for personal note-taking.

The author has balanced science, history, and cultural perspective to offer a research guide that is informative as well as enlightening.

DNA for Native American Genealogy is available from the  publisher, Genealogical Publishing Co., at: https://genealogical.com/store/dna-for-native-american-genealogy/.