Title: The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks
Author: Rebecca Skloot
Publisher: Crown Publishing
Publication Date: February 8, 2010
Genre: Non-fiction, Science, Biography
Pages: 336
ISBN: 978-0-307-26976-2
Summary:
“The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” is a non-fiction book written by Rebecca Skloot that tells the story of Henrietta Lacks, an African-American woman whose cancer cells were taken without her consent and used in medical research, leading to significant advances in medicine. The book explores the history of Henrietta’s life, her diagnosis and treatment of cervical cancer, and the subsequent use of her cells, known as HeLa cells, in scientific research.
Content:
The book is divided into three parts. The first part tells the story of Henrietta’s life, including her childhood, marriage, and diagnosis of cervical cancer. The second part explores the history of medical research and the development of HeLa cells, including the role of George Gey and his team at Johns Hopkins Hospital. The third part delves into the ethical issues surrounding the use of HeLa cells, including the lack of consent from Henrietta and her family, and the commercialization of her cells.
Impact:
The book has received widespread critical acclaim for its engaging and accessible writing style, as well as its thought-provoking exploration of the ethical issues surrounding medical research. It has been praised by experts in the field, including scientists and medical professionals, and has won several awards, including the National Book Critics Circle Award.
Reception:
The book has received positive reviews from readers and critics alike, with many praising its clear and concise writing style, as well as its ability to make complex scientific concepts accessible to a broad audience.
Citations:
[1] https://www.sparknotes.com/lit/immortal-life/summary/
[2] https://www.amazon.com/Immortal-Life-Henrietta-Lacks/dp/1400052181
[3] https://bjgplife.com/book-review-the-immortal-life-of-henrietta-lacks/
[4] https://www.univ.ox.ac.uk/book/immortal-life-henrietta-lacks/