Woman Reading

Alert! alert! This is another book that EVERYONE should read! alert! Alert!

The phrase 'rush to judgement' is a silly one. When it comes to judgement, most of us don't have to rush. We don't have to even leave the couch. Our judgement is so easy to reach for.
None of these people who are talking know Craig or Harry, or even care about who Craig or Harry are. The minute you stop talking about individuals and start talking about a group, your judgement has a flaw in it.

I read a few reviews talking about the odd narration in this book, and I absolutely see what they are saying. When I started reading this book I thought the narration was odd too. However, when I got into the story the power of the story being narrated by those lost to AIDS was absolutely brilliant. There were a few times that their emotion brought tears to my eyes.

And there is such a beautiful array of characters. Peter and Neil, who have been in a loving High school relationship for one year. Avery and Ryan who meet for the first time and have an instant connection. Cooper... lost and self-loathing, alone and feeling like nothing. Then you have Craig and Harry, Two Boys Kissing, setting a world record and making a statement.

We get to read about their parents, some who struggle, some who turn away, and some who accept and just love their boys.

"I need you to say it," he tells them. "I need to hear you say it."
Mrs. Kim throws down the paper and hits the table. "What? That we're sorry? For not turning off the radio when some idiot said something idiotic? You're acting like a baby."
"No." Neil tries to keep control of his voice. "I don't need you to say you're sorry. I need you to say that I'm gay."
Neil's mother grunts and looks at his father. You deal with this.
"Neil," he says, "is everything okay? Why are you acting this way?"
"Just say it. Please! Just say it."
It's Miranda, his eleven year old sister, who speaks up. "You're gay," she says, with complete seriousness. "And I love you."
Tears spring to Neil's eyes.

There's a very important message in this book. The message that is so important for all of us to read. Ready for it?

The idea that all people are, in fact, born equal, no matter who they kiss or screw, no matter what dreams they have or love they give.