Like a Love Story by Abdi Nazemian

How I Heard About It:  While browsing online for new young-adult novels and novels published for adults, I came across this title.  After reading the many 5-star reviews from readers, I knew I had to order the book and read it as soon as possible.  


What It Is About - FIVE Things You Need to Know:  
1.  *Abdi Nazemian takes the reader back to 1989 in New York City during the height of the AIDS crisis.

2.  *For three young people; Madonna is their choice of music, expressing themselves in high on their list, and making sure our country takes care of those dying is their number one priority.  

3.  *Art and Judy have been the best of friends forever.  They are two "outcasts" at their high-school, but as long as they have each other, they will be just fine.  

4.  *Reza has recently moved to New York City.  His family is originally from Iran.  As much as Art is out and proud, Reza wants to keep his secret to himself.  

5.  *As more and more gay men are dying from AIDS, Art wants to make a huge difference in the world, Reza wants to stay healthy and alive, and Judy wants to find true love.  


What I Thought Of It - Five Observations/Reflections:
1.  *Wow!  This was such a wonderful and intense story.  

2.  *Being a young-adult myself during 1989, the story brought back lots of memories of that time:  the music, the pop stars, the politicians, and the events happening in our country regarding the AIDS crisis.

3.  *I found each of the three characters to be real, authentic, and sympathetic.  I could feel their pain, joy, and struggle to find their place in the world.  

4.  *The writer did a fantastic job of taking the reader back to this time in history and accurately described what was going on for many of our citizens.  I'm glad to say that we have come a long way in many aspects.  

5.  *The relationships between these three young-adults was the center-point of the story and carried me on an emotional journey that I won't soon forget.  


Who Should Read It:    This is definitely a story for the high-school reader and above.  There are a few sexually graphic love scenes that may or may not be appropriate for a younger reader.  Of course readers older than high-school would definitely appreciate and enjoy the story; especially if you were a teenager during 1989.  Happy Reading!  

Rating:   4+ STARS out of 5 Stars!