Mixing wrenching, atmospheric narrative with frank, informative prose... It's a compassionate offering that celebrates the community's perseverance just as loudly as it mourns its losses.-- "Publishers Weekly (starred review)"

Fiery, quick-moving... Activist teens who may be priming for some revolutionary movement of their own will likely be deeply inspired by the collaborative art, protests, and marches, as well as the more extreme but effective forms of dissent that finally brought needed change.-- "The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books"

A comprehensive sociopolitical history of the HIV/AIDS epidemic through an American lens... This work will provide readers with hope as they learn about their fierce ancestors who fought for dignity in the face of institutionalized homophobia from the government and medical establishment. Long clearly shows how these activists effectively asserted their right to have a say in their own healthcare through marches, civil disobedience, fundraising and the arts... Informative, heartbreaking, and inspiring.-- "Kirkus Reviews"

Riveting and a great choice for those interested in history or activism... Long's empathetic yet powerful writing beautifully portrays the awe-inspiring tenacity of the activists. Recommended for all libraries.-- "School Library Journal"

Long presents a detailed, well-researched resource on the history, science, and cultural impact of the AIDS crisis, including context related to the concurrent fight for LGBTQ+ rights and important events in that mission... By connecting these ideas with passages on queer history through the perspectives of those who lived it, Long paints a vivid picture of life during the AIDS crisis... With clear affection for the LGBTQIA+ community, Long describes the effect of AIDS not only on those who individually suffered from the disease but on the community at large--so many people lost so much, which he doesn't gloss over. Teen readers will come away with an enriched understanding of the context of the AIDS crisis and its effect on individuals and the community, as well as the modern struggles still faced by the queer community today.-- "Booklist"

Publisher: Norton Young Readers

Pub date: 2025-06-03

Length: 288 pages