Adam Levin next to his new book.
Went to the book launch for aidsafari last evening. It started with its author, Adam Levin, saying something like, “I’m really happy to be here tonight. No, really; you have no idea how happy I am to be here.” (Bu-dum-cha.)
I’m not sure I can describe what it was like to hear readings about Adam’s life. It was sad, inspiring, romantic, voyeuristic, unreal. I don’t know him, and I’m not sure if I’ll read his book – but I have immense respect for what he is trying to do.
The book is not heroic, says Adam. It is simply about his struggle to survive, “what anyone would do.” From what I heard of / from it, it’s funny. It’s gut-wrenching. It’s honest. But mostly, it’s for many others with (or without) AIDS to find a safe space, to find hope. He was literally on death’s door not long ago – and after 2 years of dancing, crying and tiara wearing, he’s living (I wouldn’t say well, but it’s all relative – and this man loves living, so I guess he’d say well), and with his new book.
(paraphrasing) “It’s not about testing postitive or negative. The world has AIDS; live a lesson in compassion.”
Available in bookshops all over South Africa, and online from exclusive.
