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4.23 AVERAGE
4.23 AVERAGE
emotional
informative
reflective
medium-paced
This was such a great book. I loved learning about Henrietta, her cells, and her family. I also loved Skloot's writing. It's clear that she cared deeply for Henrietta and her family, especially Deborah. And I think she did a good job presenting and explaining all the science.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Cancer, Racism, Medical content, Medical trauma
Moderate: Child abuse
Amazing story. I'm surprised that Henrietta Lacks isn't more of a household name. Fascinating the way she weaves scientific history with the family narrative.
This was a great read, for a masterful blending of history and science that kept me turning every page. I had heard of HeLa cells in college, and the basics of who she was, but learning about this story was remarkable. It's a point of humor to me that Baltimore showed up yet again, after being immersed in stories about the city.
This book, like many great examples in non-fiction, capture the big movements in the small moments, and how sometimes, fiction can only approach the surreality of life.
This book, like many great examples in non-fiction, capture the big movements in the small moments, and how sometimes, fiction can only approach the surreality of life.
informative
inspiring
medium-paced
The audiobook reader mispronounces the name of the cell line and as a PhD in the field, it really bothers me. Great writing, important story. I wish the reader said HeLa correctly. The author having a science background means the author knows the correct pronunciation. Why they were ok with the reader is beyond me. It really is an added insult.
This book was so readable and super interesting about a topic that could get dry. I loved learning about HeLa’s history and her family.
informative
inspiring
sad
medium-paced
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
sad
medium-paced
Extremely informative and gripping.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Terminal illness, Medical trauma
Moderate: Alcoholism, Child abuse, Child death, Racism
Minor: Suicide, Antisemitism
challenging
informative
inspiring
medium-paced
emotional
reflective
sad
medium-paced
medium-paced
Really enjoyed this book, very sad but I loved the multiple perspectives presented