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Want an introduction to DNA functional organization and how it's recorded to describe explicitly specify your unique body?
In "Genome: The Autobiography of a Species in 23 Chapters (P.S.)", Matt Ridley provides the layman with an understandable, complete introduction to a complex subject that most field professionals could not supply if their life depended on it.

First published in 2000, the book sets forth the then-current knowledge of DNA. Since then, obviously an enormous amount of subsequent research has been added to our understanding of the subject.

However, DNA basic structure has not changed and the basic mechanisms by which DNA forms its genome blueprints doesn't change either.

One thing that is startling is that your DNA includes the DNA of ALL of your ancestors. Succeeding changes (mutations) are simply appended to your existing DNA record. In this sense, DNA takes that behaviour of a CD-ROM (you can add material but not delete data already written.

Also startling is that DNA replicates itself by making copies of itself. And sometimes the transcription process itself is flawed - introducing a copy which is NOT a duplicate. The new copy can be said to be a mutation of the old blueprint.

Hence, Ridley's book provides solid content which you can use to relate to current discoveries.

Want an outstanding example of what an outstanding technical writer can present to an audience of both professionals and lay persons?
Read "Genome: The Autobiography of a Species in 23 Chapters (P.S.)" and try to duplicate Matt Ridley's skills to benefit the audience for your next presentation. At least raise your standards for technical writing about your professional work. (Doesn't the content of this site make you wish my writing skills came even close to his?)