Sept book discussion- The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks

[christy082]

I forgot to post this yesterday! Oops.

So, what did you think?

[christy082]

I found the book fascinating. It's amazing how there is still no clear cut legislation on doing research on people's cells.

I found it really sad how messed up the lives of her children were. And also that Deborah died before the book was released.

As much as I could "enjoy" this type of book, I did.

[labbie]

It's been a while since I read it, but I was engrossed from page one. I thought the writing was so approachable for such a complex topic, and I was impressed by the author's ability to make this story a blend of medical history, science, culture and bioethics. There are some interesting questions raised for certain.



Sent from my XT1080 using proboards

[aurora]

I need to get to my computer so I can write more, but I really enjoyed the myriad of ethical questions raised by the book. I do have to admit, though, that I enjoyed the first part more than later (when she was tracking down the families).

[apelila]

I loved this book. Loved it. I come from a science/medical lab background, and I found it so thoroughly interesting and easy to read, even for someone that doesn't have the same background. It was fascinating to realize that so many medical advances have been possible because of Henrietta. It was heartbreaking to realize that her family had no idea for so long, and even after they found out, how little they really understood. It is shocking that there still isn't any definitive legislation, like Christy said. Overall, just a GREAT book.

[mcfelix]

I didn't even know there was a book club board but I noticed this post in new topics.

I thought this book was amazing. I'll admit, as a Baltimore resident and Johns Hopkins alum, I felt a tie to it. I read it because there was a big write up in the alumni magazine about it.

I couldn't put it down. It has been awhile since I read it but I agree with the poster that said it raises a lot of ethical issues. I am a huge proponent of medical research and donating bodies to science. I sought out a place for donate my cord blood via mail since there is no donation program in my state. It was crazy to read what a huge impact her cells had, and that she had no clue. This makes me want to read it again!!