QUICKSAND

Ten years ago, there was a dearth of recent books on HIV/AIDS for young people. Now, as if the disease has vanished from America, it is rare to find a book with contemporary information. This slim book fills this void with up-to-date medical information and a personal perspective offering insight into what it is like to watch someone battle with HIV/AIDS. That the author felt the need to publish anonymously is telling of the extent to which the social stigma of the disease persists. She chronicles the journey of Jay, her brother-in-law, from his diagnosis to his death, describing the emotional toll his illness and death took on family and friends and sharing practical advice on how one can remain a good friend to someone diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. Interspersed throughout is current information about the virus, including origins, communicability, precautions, symptoms and treatments, with a great deal of attention to addressing the myths about how the virus is transmitted. An accessible, informative, insider’s view, this book reminds readers that there is still a long way to go. (further information, glossary, bibliography, index) (Nonfiction. 10-16)