Take a story's temperature by studying its tone. Is it hopeful? Cynical? Snarky? Playful?
Neutral
Rebecca Skloot's a science reporter, and she's really very good at delivering her information succinctly, clearly and non-judgmentally. That's especially critical in this work, when there are so many moments where Skloot could become judgmental or angry and sidetrack the purpose of the narrative. Even when describing some truly appalling stuff, she stays cool, but not cold. She's compassionate and respectful. She lets the family members provide the anger and frustration.