The author of a best-selling new book on the African-American woman who donated the world's first cells grown successfully in a laboratory will make two public appearances here this week.

Rebecca Skloot, a University of Pittsburgh graduate and author of "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks," will appear from 7 to 10 p.m. today at the Alto Lounge, 728 Copeland St., Shadyside. She will also appear from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday at the Cafe Scientifique at the Carnegie Science Center on the North Shore.

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