Applying the quirky laws of quantum mechanics to DNA, McFadden (molecular microbiology, U. of Surrey, England) promulgates a new science of the origin of life. In a popular treatment, he claims that mutations driving evolution are not random; objects to complexity/chaos theory as an explanation for life's emergence; and asserts that we humans have "quantum evolved our own free will." Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)