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4.23 AVERAGE
4.23 AVERAGE
Outstanding writing, excellent audiobook performance, devastating history and a host of terrifying and inspirational people to learn about. I think the author's dedication to putting in the time, educational and emotional resources is poignantly evident and makes Henrietta Lacks' and the whole Lacks family's life meaningful to everyone who reads it. This book is about science and history and the infuriating limitations of both, from scientific ego, policies and practice to cultural ignorance, emnity, racial inequality and ethical limbo. Yet it also remains respectfully anchored in the true human element of Henrietta and Deborah and the endless fight to make their stories known. One of my favorite books that I had no idea I wanted to read until I picked it up.
That being said, there is some truly disturbing content about human depravity and the author does not pull punches (also some brief swearing); its definitely not for anyone who struggles with triggers about domestic/sexual abuse, medical horror or violence.
*Spoiler warning!*
My favorite part was by far the author's revelation about both the scientific and spiritual nature of Henrietta's immortality and how regardless of belief, the beauty of understanding someone's story in its fullness is in it's own way, immortality.
That being said, there is some truly disturbing content about human depravity and the author does not pull punches (also some brief swearing); its definitely not for anyone who struggles with triggers about domestic/sexual abuse, medical horror or violence.
*Spoiler warning!*
My favorite part was by far the author's revelation about both the scientific and spiritual nature of Henrietta's immortality and how regardless of belief, the beauty of understanding someone's story in its fullness is in it's own way, immortality.
A shocking read on how the medical community misused one family in the name of science. I had to read this in one sitting it was so compelling.
I loved this book! What a fascinating but heartbreaking story. A must read!!
hopeful
informative
inspiring
slow-paced
This book had a little bit of everything in it. Science, history, politics, social issues, racism, etc. Enjoyable but I wish it focused more on the science aspect than the family history as the Lacks history is pretty dark and depressing.
emotional
informative
inspiring
medium-paced
challenging
informative
medium-paced
informative
medium-paced
challenging
emotional
hopeful
informative
reflective
sad
medium-paced
Went to a talk with Rebecca Skloot and history and chemsitry professors giving context. So excited to actually read the book...what a phenomenal (and heartbreaking) story, and sad that no one has thought to tell it until now.