Nonfiction at Night Book Discussion: The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks

About this event

Board Room - 2nd Floor. For readers who like captivating true stories and thoughtful conversations. This month's book is The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot (2010). Book Description: Henrietta Lacks, a poor Southern farmer, had cells taken from her without her knowledge or compensation. These first “immortal” human cells grown in culture, are still alive today, though she has been dead for more than sixty years. These cells were vital for developing the polio vaccine; uncovered secrets of cancer, viruses, and the atom bomb’s effects; helped lead to important advances like in vitro fertilization, cloning, and gene mapping; and have been bought and sold by the billions. Pick up books at the Guest Services Desk one month in advance or go to the catalog and reserve the book.