Parents' Guide to

Like a Love Story

By Samara Meyer, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 15+

Emotional tale about self-acceptance set during AIDS crisis.

Book Abdi Nazemian Coming of Age 2019
Like a Love Story Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this book.

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age 16+

Based on 1 parent review

jpompilio
jpompilio Adult
May 25, 2020
age 16+

wonderful tale about friendship, first love and activism

Growing up in the 80s in Kentucky, I was never really aware of how the AIDS crisis affected families and teens since our Catholic household and schooling never addressed it. This was an enlightening book told from the viewpoint of an Iranian gay teen, who becomes friends and (eventually) romantic partners with two good friends during the AIDS crisis in New York City. Overall, the characters are wonderful, and the adults show a mix of great role models (Uncle Stephen), to horrible role models (Art's parents). It would be a great historical fiction read for younger readers too except for a love scene towards the end of the book; while it is a short scene, consensual and practices safe sex, as a doctor and mom of a 14yo son, I thought it was too graphic for readers who might not be emotionally mature enough for it (hence, rec'd for ages 16+). Older teens should definitely read it.

This title has:

Educational value
Great messages
Great role models
Too much sex
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What's the Story?

In LIKE A LOVE STORY, it's 1989 and Reza is an Iranian immigrant adjusting to his life in New York City with his mom, stepdad, and stepbrother. About to start his first year at an American high school, Reza is terrified that his deepest secret will get out before he even accepts it himself: He's gay. With the AIDS crisis reaching its most devastating point, the idea of living proudly and happily seems like an impossible dream to Reza. All this starts to change when he meets his classmates Art, a rebellious photographer and the only openly gay student at school, and Judy, an aspiring fashion designer who quickly develops a crush on Reza. Together they explore the world of New York, American pop culture, and the iconic music of the '80s. The trio becomes involved with the ACT UP movement under the guidance Judy's uncle Stephen, a gay man living with AIDS who's a dedicated member of the activist group. Reza starts to date Judy in order to hide his identity from his family, but struggles with his feelings for Art. With ACT UP's biggest protest on the horizon and Stephen's health declining, the three friends must face hard truths and emotions to come together for the greater good -- and the love of Madonna.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (1 ):
Kids say (5 ):

Author Abdi Nazemian has crafted a powerful, entertaining story with as many heartrending moments as there are laughs and Madonna references. Partially based on the author's own life experiences, Like a Love Story paints a vibrant and complex portrait of gay culture at a time when the LGBT community was facing one of the darkest chapters in its history. But even when things are at their worst, the resilience of Reza, Art, and Judy shines through and keeps the story moving. Each character feels unique and personal. As we witness the trio navigate such turbulent years, we get to know them at their lowest and highest points; their failures and successes become our failures and successes. And although it can be frustrating when one of them makes a wrong turn, it's all the more rewarding to see how they learn and grow from their mistakes.

The name-dropping of prominent celebrities, popular media, and fashion trends of the may be too heavy-handed for some teens to appreciate, but the wealth of influences present in Like a Love Story help enrich this compelling and worthwhile read.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about immigration stories. What impact does being from an immigrant family have Reza's identity and experiences? How is Like A Love Story different from other immigrant stories you've read or heard?

  • What did you already know or think about the AIDS crisis before reading this book, and what ideas have changed? What did you learn about activism and the gay community that you didn't know before?

  • Why is it important to be honest with your friends? What would you do if you found out a friend was keeping a big secret from you?

  • Have you ever listened to Madonna's music? Why do you think Reza, Art, and Judy look up to her?

Book Details

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