The AIDS Epidemic: Private Rights and the Public Interest

First published last May as a special issue of the New England Journal of Public Policy , these 34 essays address important questions concerning AIDS. Covered are the characteristics of the HIV virus, methods of transmission and prevention, an analysis of the epidemic's extent, and stories of individual AIDS patients. The variety of studiesclinical, social, political and personalprovides a comprehensive overview of the disease. The material is often unnerving, particularly the journal of a dying patient and a projected death toll, but the book is not alarmist. Most essays are by professionals in AIDS research or education. One of several exceptions is by Shaun O'Connell, an English professor whose ``The Big One: Literature Discovers AIDS'' discusses both fictional and nonfictional treatments of the tragedy. By presenting both scientific and private realities of those who, in one way or another, face AIDS, this anthology is a worthy achievement and a valuable service. O'Malley is a senior associate at the John W. McCormack Institute of Public Affairs, University of Massachusetts, Boston. (Jan.)