Saratoga Reads wrapped up a fabulous 2011-12 season with a capstone event on April 26 featuring a conversation with David "Sonny" Lacks and David Lacks Jr.—the son and grandson of Henrietta Lacks. Henrietta's compelling story is told in this year's book of choice, The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, by Rebecca Skloot.
The event was moderated by Joe Donahue, the familiar voice of the "Roundtable" and the "Book Show" on WAMC Northeast Public Radio, and drew an audience of some 200 area residents to the Bernhard Theater on the Skidmore College campus. Following the discussion, there was an open question-and-answer session with the audience and a book signing.
Earlier in the day the father-son duo participated in an interview on the "Roundtable" as well a press conference with area media. To read the Times Union article by Paul Grondahl click here: "Cell Case Still Unsettling."
The capstone evening topped off a series of some 20 community events based on The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks or the related junior companion books for young readers. The programs—ranging from a panel on bioethics and social equity to a presentation for kids on brain science by visiting author John Fleischman—were designed to appeal to a wide audience and diverse interests.
"All of this is made possible through the efforts of Saratoga Reads leaders, readers, volunteers, partners, sponsors and grant providers," said Tabitha Orthwein, chair of the Saratoga Reads board. "Thank you all for a terrifically successful year!"
Images from a conversation with David Lacks and David Lacks Jr.
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