A review by meant2breading
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot

challenging dark emotional informative reflective sad medium-paced

5.0

Never has a non-fiction held my attention in the way that the story of Henrietta Lacks has. Normally, I read nonfiction slowly and a few chapters at a time to make sure I absorb, helps me remember important information! However, though story of Henrietta and her family was so heartbreaking, I could NOT put this book down. Incredibly astonishing. I work in Medical Affairs and thought Skloot’s work felt very well researched, including the history of cell development. Given the remarkable yet terrifying aspects of this story involving health care disparities, systemic racism within our society including in medicine, and the ethical considerations surrounding autonomy and consent, this should be a required read for anyone pursuing research or medical fields. This is one of the best books I’ve read this year and a new favorite non-fiction book of all time. Please check TWs 💕.
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