For follow-up discussion and general commentary on the topic. Comments are sorted chronologically.
Paul Davis
I would suggest your readers also take a look at a book written by a world acclaimed genetic scientist and evangelical Christian, "The Language of Science and Faith" by Francis Collins. This book and a companion web site "BioLogos" offers a Biblical and scientific alternative to the views expressed in the answer section. Leaders such as Tim Keller and Oz Guiness are strong supporters of this viewpoint so I submit that it's well worth an open minded study.
John P Curtin
The recent scientific discoveries DNA connecting Homo Sapiens Sapiens with Homo Sapiens Neanderthalensis has enabled a possibility that ADAM and EVE were Neanderthal. The archeological documentation of Neanderthal religious practices, advanced tool use, jewelry making, burial practices, herbal and medicinal knowledge, centuries long lifespans, 1,736 cc cranial capacity compared to 1,400 cc of modern humans, advanced hunting skills, a slower maturation rate to maturity and adulthood and a possibility that the original sin coming from our first parents is the scientifically documented 2% to 9% Neanderthal DNA which makes up modern humans DNA.