Howard, Billy (photogs.) Epitaphs for the Living: Words
and Images in the Time of AIDS. Southern Methodist Univ. Pr.
1989. c.176p. photogs. ISBN 0-87074-289-2. $35
[PHOTOGRAPHY]
In an effort to depict visually the ravages and the human
toll of AIDS, photographer Howard has compiled a dramatic,
compassionate collection of photographs of people with AIDS.
Below each is a message written by the individual to convey his
or her thoughts about living with and dying of AIDS. Some
messages are upbeat: "I've finally been able to fulfill some
of my dreams"; "I begin graduate school in a few
months--that is my goal; my hope is to
finish." Others offer warnings: "To you who are still
free, I say, beware of the risks you may be taking with your
life." Many mention the spiritual growth they have attained
after diagnosis. Almost all offer hope: "Life gives us gifts
in strange packages. At first all I could see were the losses.
Now I can look for what can be gained." Highly recommended.
Kevin M. Roddy, Oakland Public Library, California