In the Defense of Banned Books: Why Like A Love Story Should NOT be Banned

Abdi Nazemian’s book Like A Love Story is now banned in Utah schools for
being considered “pornographic.”

Nazemian's YA novel is a well-rounded story that truly encompasses
the range and complexity of young adult lives. Within 67 pages, I could already find a
multitude of themes relevant to this age group: friendship, coming-of-age, anxiety around lack of education, sex
education, safe activism, and loss.

The story is about three best friends as they navigate high school, friendship,
family drama, discovering their sexuality, and growing up in New York City in 1989
during the AIDS crisis. Art and Judy, best friends for as long as they can remember, are
the counterculture of their school. Art is the only out-and-proud teen, and Judy is a
staunch ally who feels alienated in other ways. They spend their time at ACT UP meetings
with Judy’s uncle, Stephen, fighting for gay rights with their queer community. Reza, a recent immigrant,
stumbles his way into the group. Being the new kid, he struggles not only with
adjusting to New York City, but also coming to terms with his sexuality and what it
means to be gay during the height of the AIDS crisis.

The book discusses the ups and downs of friendship, and how to work through
complicated situations. Reza, still unsure if it is safe to come out, ends up hurting Judy
when he goes along with her notions of a relationship. Art, finally finding a person he
can love, commits the biggest act of betrayal when he starts dating Reza behind Judy's back.
Throughout the book they are seen fighting and avoiding each other, but they
communicate and work through it instead of hurting each other more. This provides an
example of healthy friendships to the young adults who are dealing with their own
complicated situations.

This book also gives young adults something to relate to when it comes to
coming-of-age and dealing with uncomfortable situations. The characters
are growing into themselves, figuring out crushes and dating, and realizing they are
sexual beings. It’s awkward and embarrassing at times, but it’s part of learning and
growing. It gives readers something to relate to, and can be a space for them to
process their own experiences through the characters.

Part of coming-of-age is having sex. Yes, sex is discussed in this book. However,
it is not in the context of pornography, or for the prurient interest. It isn’t even
graphic. Instead, sex education is discussed, as well as the unreasonable but
completely valid anxiety that comes from a lack of education. Throughout the book,
Reza struggles to come to terms with his sexuality because he fears it automatically makes him diseased. This comes from a lack of education about the topic, and his anxiety holds him back from learning. This is completely valid and normal for
all young adults who haven't received adequate sex education. Reza doesn’t just
magically get over this after a pep-talk and some courage. No, instead Nazemian writes
about mentors like Stephen giving him guidance and providing him with important,
factual information to educate him so that he can make informed decisions and not go
on living in fear. This, in turn, educates readers, providing a starting point for those who feel like Reza did.

What makes this book truly special is the parents’ involvement, and the
presentation of all sides of the discussion. Throughout the book, Art, Judy, and Reza
are seen having discussions with their parents about their interests, worries, and
sexuality. While their parents might say things that upset them, and the kids protest, it
brings up both sides of the discussion and demonstrates healthy communication. This book is
an effective medium for people to be exposed to the opposite perspective in a peaceful
way so that they are able to truly listen and understand.

Like a Love Story is a well-rounded young adult novel that truly encompasses
the range and complexity of young adult lives and should remain on school library
shelves.