To the Friend Who Did Not Save My Life
Credit: Special Arrangement
This list includes memoirs of those battling AIDS and essays on the subject. World Aids Day is on December 1
To the Friend Who Did Not Save My Life (1990)
Author: Hervé Guibert
This is a poignant memoir that explores themes of friendship, illness, and the complexities of human relationships. Written during Guibert’s battle with AIDS, the book reflects on his sense of betrayal by a close friend who failed to offer support. Through the candid, emotional writing, Guibert addresses isolation, vulnerability, and existential questions surrounding life and death.
Aids Sutra: Untold Stories from India (2008)
Editor: Negar Akhavi
This book includes several essays by prominent writers and activists. In this anthology, each essay explores a unique aspect of the epidemic. William Dalrymple interacts with ‘devadasis’, many of whom are victims of HIV, while Kiran Desai travels to the coast of Andhra Pradesh, engaging with sex workers. Salman Rushdie spends time with Mumbai’s transgenders and pens his observations. The book captures insights from interactions with housewives, homosexuals, police and sex workers, among others. It covers the impact of stigma and discrimination on those affected, and shares personal stories of individuals living with HIV/AIDS. The book features a foreword by Amartya Sen and an introduction by Bill and Melinda Gates.
How to Survive a Plague (2016)
Author: David France
The author chronicles the early years of the AIDS epidemic and the activism that emerged in response. The book highlights the efforts of multiple organisations, focusing on their fight for medical research, government action, and better treatment for those affected by HIV/AIDS. France talks about social justice, activism, and the intersection of politics and public health.
Love Is the Cure: On Life, Loss, and the End of AIDS (2012)
Author: Elton John
In this memoir, the singer reflects on his personal experiences with addiction, loss, and his commitment to HIV/AIDS activism. The book highlights his work with the Elton John AIDS Foundation and the importance of compassion in the fight against the epidemic. His advocacy work has focused on raising awareness, funding research, and fighting stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS.
(These books are available online)