Like a Love Story PDF is a young adult novel written by Abdi Nazemian and published by Balzer + Bray, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers. It was first published on June 4, 2019.
The book has received rave reviews for its sensitive portrayal of LGBTQ+ themes and its examination of the HIV/AIDS epidemic during the late 1980s and early 1990s. It has been praised for its authentic representation of the diverse experiences of queer people and its exploration of the intersectionality of identities such as race and gender.
Through the eyes of these characters, the novel explores themes of love, friendship, family, activism, and the power of art in times of crisis. The story is particularly poignant in its depiction of the impact of the AIDS epidemic on the queer community, and the ways in which it both galvanized and divided activists. Like a Love Story is available in several formats, including hardcover, paperback, e-book, and audiobook.
Table of Contents
Plot Summary
The story revolves around three main characters: Reza, Judy, and Art. Reza is an Iranian-American teenager who is struggling to come to terms with his sexuality. He begins to develop feelings for his friend, Judy’s, ex-boyfriend, and he must navigate the challenges of being gay in a conservative and homophobic community.
Judy is a fierce and outspoken high school student who is passionate about fighting against the AIDS epidemic. Her uncle has died of AIDS, and she is determined to make a difference by organizing protests and spreading awareness about the disease.
Art is a gay photographer who is navigating his own relationships and activism in the face of the AIDS epidemic. He becomes a mentor to Reza and helps him to accept his sexuality and find the courage to be himself.
As the story progresses, the characters grapple with issues of love, friendship, family, and the power of art. They must also confront the impact of the AIDS epidemic on the queer community, which both galvanizes and divides activists.
Major Characters
Certainly! Here are the major characters in “Like a Love Story” by Abdi Nazemian:
- Reza: A teenager and an Iranian immigrant who is coming to terms with his sexuality.
- Judy: Reza’s best friend, an aspiring fashion designer, and an outspoken activist in the fight against AIDS.
- Art: Judy’s uncle, a photographer, and a prominent figure in the LGBTQ+ community. He navigates his own journey of love and self-acceptance.
- Reza’s mother: A loving and supportive mother who grapples with cultural expectations and her son’s revelation.
- Reza’s father: A traditional Iranian immigrant who struggles to understand and accept his son’s sexuality.
These characters play significant roles in the story, their interactions and personal journeys contributing to the overall narrative of love, acceptance, and self-discovery during the AIDS crisis.
Where to Buy?
Like a Love Story is available on Amazon for purchase in several formats, including hardcover, paperback, e-book, and audiobook.
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About Abdi Nazemian
Abdi Nazemian is an Iranian-American author, screenwriter, and film director. He was born in Iran in 1974 and grew up in the United States. He graduated from Columbia University with a degree in English Literature and went on to pursue a career in the entertainment industry.
Nazemian is known for his work in film and television, including writing and producing the hit series “The Authentics” and “The Stoning of Soraya M.” He has also written for numerous publications, including The New York Times, Salon, and Out magazine.
“Like a Love Story” is Nazemian’s first novel. It was inspired by his own experiences growing up as a gay Iranian-American during the AIDS epidemic. The book has received critical acclaim and has been praised for its authentic portrayal of LGBTQ+ experiences.
Nazemian is an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has used his platform to raise awareness and promote social justice. He currently lives in Los Angeles with his husband and two children.
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Critical Reception
- The New York Times: The New York Times praised the book for its nuanced portrayal of queer identity and the AIDS crisis. The review highlighted Nazemian’s ability to capture the intensity of emotions and the resilience of the characters, while also offering a tribute to the activists of that era.
- Booklist: Booklist gave a starred review to “Like a Love Story,” commending its authenticity and the depth of its characters. The review noted that Nazemian’s writing skillfully weaves together personal stories with historical events, creating a moving and thought-provoking narrative.
- School Library Journal: School Library Journal called the book a “must-read” for teens, highlighting its LGBTQ+ representation and its exploration of friendship, love, and the impact of the AIDS crisis. The review praised Nazemian’s ability to evoke a sense of time and place, as well as his memorable and relatable characters.
- Kirkus Reviews: Kirkus Reviews described “Like a Love Story” as a “brilliantly layered” novel that combines history, art, and activism. The review praised the book’s emotional depth, its examination of family dynamics, and the way it tackles difficult subjects with sensitivity and grace.
