Why read My Government Means to Kill Me?

Book cover of My Government Means to Kill Me

Book description

A NEW YORK TIMES NOTABLE BOOK · A NEW YORK TIMES BOOK REVIEW EDITOR'S CHOICE

The debut novel from television WRITER/PRODUCER OF THE CHI, NARCOS, and BEL-AIR tells a fierce and riveting queer coming-of-age story following the personal and political awakening of a young, gay, Black man in 1980s New…

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Why read it?

3 authors picked My Government Means to Kill Me as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

Cody Sisco

Author

This book provided a relatable glimpse into coming-of-age during the HIV/AIDS epidemic in New York City and the activism of the LGBTQ community.

From Cody's 3 favorite reads in 2024.

Hari Ziyad

Author

Rasheed Newson's powerful debut is an eye-opening exploration of historical injustice and the resilience Black and queer people in particular have cultivated to overcome it.

The protagonist, Trey, comes into his political awakening through his work volunteering at an AIDS hospice, with many parallels to my own journey. Though this book is set in the past, it offers profound insights into the systemic issues that persist today.

From Hari's list on loss and grief from a certified death doula.

Federico Erebia

Author

This is a compelling, historical fiction story centered around a gay, black teen in the 1980s.

There is a fictional, but believable mentor-like relationship with civil rights leader Bayard Rustin. The audiobook narrator, Jelani Alladin, is perfect for all the characters. I loved all the historical references, and the respectful portrayal of the devastation that HIV/AIDS unleashed on the gay communities.

There are many unforgettable characters, and moments. Remarkable.

From Federico's list on LGBTQIA+BIPOC coming of age.