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Truth & Treasures |
May 2012 |
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by Rebecca Skloot Paperback: $16.00
Audio Book $35.00
Reviewed by: Freda Little Rarely do I come across a book so fascinating that I am compelled to read it twice. The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks is one of those books. The author very skillfully incorporated scientific and medical facts into this true story to give the reader a better insight into how such a terrible miscarriage of justice by the medical establishment could occur. This is the story of a black woman whose cells – taken without her knowledge or consent – transformed modern medicine. Her cells were instrumental in the research that led to cures for a wide range of diseases before and after her death. Interestingly, all of this research was done using her cells without her family’s knowledge. After ten years of research and developing a caring and trusting relationship with the Lacks children, Ms. Skloot introduces us to the woman behind the cells. This closer look allows us to discover more about this woman we know so little about. Despite the fact that the shipment of her cells all over the world for research created a billion dollar industry for the medical community, her family continues to live in poverty. In a quest to learn about their mother and what happened to her, the children experience a wide range of emotions. They move from anger initially to acceptance, and finally, through their faith, forgiveness. Join the Booklovers in discussing this powerful book on Sunday, May 27, 2012 following the 10:30 service.
Books are available in Truth & Treasures Bookstore or may be ordered here online.
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