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4.23 AVERAGE
4.23 AVERAGE
A masterpiece of hybrid, narrative science-medical writing /memoir that deftly balances scene + summary. Originally read this as an assigned book during my MA in Science Writing program at Johns Hopkins, and re-read it now, about 8 years later. Potently alive with visual, sensory details and lyrical language in the Lacks family scenes; in the summary chapters, the complicated history and complexities of cell science and its ensuing commercialization, patient informed-consent, and much more are unpacked and explained by the author with astounding clarity and accessibility. Recommend to everyone who has interactions with the medical industry (ie, everyone), and especially for students learning to skillfully craft narrative science-medical writing.
informative
emotional
informative
medium-paced
great read - so many layers to this book - from science to human interest. I just found it fascinating.
This book was perfect. It had heart and science, but mostly heart. I’ll read it again. Henrietta Lacks was a hero without knowing it.
informative
reflective
medium-paced
Skilled writing and moving story.
Fascinating story of HeLa, Henrietta, and the Lacks family.
Fascinating book about HeLa cells, the woman from whom they originated, Henrietta Lacks, and the impact they had, both on the world and the people to whom they mattered most. This book is less scientific than you'd expect, although some of that is in there and it has inspired me to read The Emperor of All Maladies. It is mostly the story of Henrietta and the family she left behind. Rebecca Skloot also has a primary role and is definitely more than an objective journalist. It was an enjoyable, interesting read, although I'm looking forward to digging deeper into the science.
dark
informative
tense
medium-paced
challenging
emotional
informative
sad
medium-paced