67 pages • 2 hours read
And The Band Played On
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Book Brief
636
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 1980s
1987
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
And The Band Played On by Randy Shilts investigates the early years of the AIDS epidemic, tracing its origins from 1976 and highlighting the case of Dr. Grethe Rask. The virus spreads globally, uniting some in a fight for answers yet hindered by political neglect, scientific rivalry, business irresponsibility, and media indifference, until the death of Rock Hudson forces collective action against the crisis. Topics include serious illness and government neglect during the AIDS epidemic.
Informative
Mysterious
Emotional
Challenging
Unnerving
Reviews & Readership
30,195 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
And the Band Played On by Randy Shilts has been praised for its exhaustive research and compelling narrative, offering a critical look at the early years of the AIDS epidemic. Readers commend its journalistic rigor and emotional depth, though some criticize its complex structure and occasional bias. Overall, it remains a significant work in public health literature.
Who Should Read And The Band Played On?
Readers interested in And The Band Played On by Randy Shilts typically appreciate meticulously researched non-fiction that tackles public health crises and social justice issues. Fans of The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot or Silent Spring by Rachel Carson will likely find this book compelling for its impactful narrative and historical significance.
30,195 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Dr. James Curran
Dr. James Curran
An epidemiologist leading the task force on AIDS at the CDC, who previously headed their Venereal Disease division and collaborates with prominent doctors to address the AIDS epidemic.
Dr. Selma Dritz
Dr. Selma Dritz
Infectious disease specialist for the San Francisco Department of Public Health known for her expertise in enteric diseases and meticulous tracking of the AIDS epidemic, gaining trust from various communities despite controversial decisions.
Dr. Donald Francis
Dr. Donald Francis
A retrovirologist at the CDC with a background in eradicating smallpox, actively involved in understanding and addressing the AIDS epidemic by advocating for a retrovirus lab to identify the virus responsible.
Dr. Robert Gallo
Dr. Robert Gallo
A retrovirologist at the National Cancer Institute who is credited with identifying the viral agent behind AIDS and developing an HIV blood test, despite challenges and competition with other researchers.
Cleve Jones
Cleve Jones
A gay rights activist and co-founder of the San Francisco AIDS Foundation, influential in rallying community support against AIDS and organizing significant protests after political assassinations.
Bill Kraus
Bill Kraus
A gay rights activist and congressional aide instrumental in advancing gay issues in politics, campaigning for sex education, and securing AIDS program funding while supporting bathhouse closures.
Larry Kramer
Larry Kramer
A writer and activist, known for founding the Gay Men’s Health Crisis (GMHC) and being a critical voice in the AIDS crisis, whose work includes a controversial book and play spotlighting the epidemic.
636
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 1980s
1987
Adult
18+ years
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