{Good Reads}: The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks

January 16th, 2012

I like books that are real. That come from people whom don’t take sides and just tell a good story. I like books with a bit of controversy. That are complex and sad and make you feel differently after you’ve read them.

This is that book.

I got this book for Christmas from my darling husband because I saw it at the bookstore and HAD to have it right then. After he pried it from my hands, I was told I was not allowed to buy myself anything before Christmas.

Doctors took her cells without asking. Those cells never died. They launched a medical revolution and a multimillion-dollar industry. More than twenty years later, her children found out. Their lives would never be the same.

What the description left out is that it is also a book about self-discovery. About a family who is so blinded by anger they live their lives in a cloudy mess until this author takes them by the hand and leads them to places, even she, never expected. Out of anger. And sometimes into more hurt. It is a story of gain, buy mostly loss. It is tragic and wonderful. What this family has sacrificed so that science would never be the same, and that humanity can say they’ve been cured, is touching and also disturbing. (I also really like that the author becomes a character in the story.)

You must read this book. And then come back to me so we can chat. :)

Proceeds go toward the education of the descendants of Henrietta Lacks. A++++

Cheers!

*This is the first of 10 books I’m reading this year (even though my goal is still 30) for my 30 Before 30 List*