'An incredible testimony to the darkest hours of Australia's queer history and the organisation that helped change everything. A story of devastation, resistance and, ultimately, survival, every Australian should know.' - Benjamin Law
'An incredible testimony to the darkest hours of Australia's queer history and the organisation that helped change everything. A story of devastation, resistance and, ultimately, survival, every Australian should know.' - Benjamin Law
Fighting For Our Lives is the inspirational story of communities directly affected by the AIDS crisis. Against a harrowing backdrop of illness and death, fear and anger, hate and discrimination, they bravely took action.
During the darkest years of the epidemic, marginalised communities mostly gay men, sex workers and people who inject drugs came together to form organisations that gave them a voice in the corridors of power. They built an unprecedented alliance with politicians and medical experts, a three-way partnership that made Australia's response to AIDS one of the most successful in the world.
Fighting For Our Lives captures the high-stakes drama of this extraordinary period and the stories of the people at the very centre of a life-or-death struggle. It is a gripping read, an important story, and one that must never be forgotten.
'Fighting For Our Livesisan impressive history on the scourge of HIV/AIDS in Australia, and how affectedcommunities came together and forged a remarkable alliance. Nick Cook'sexhaustive and meticulous research highlights the extraordinary resilience ofthese communities and how they literally rose up and fought for their lives.' - Peter FitzSimons
'This book is proof positive that light, hope and courage can grow out of the darkest corners of human experience.ACON emerged in 1980s to give leadership in the Australian struggle against HIV/AIDS.Soon that challenge expanded to a myriad of new controversies: gay rights, drug use, sex work, trans and prisoner experience.Nick Cook chronicles the terrifying early years of the HIV epidemic, identifying heroes and villains.And the story continues to this day to call forth our "better angels".' - The Hon. Michael Kirby AC CMG, Past Justice of the High Court of Australia and Patron of the Kirby Institute
'Fighting for Our Lives is a well-timed reminder of the potential in this country to transcend a climate of hysteria and reactionary public policy in the coordination of humane, evidence-based public health initiatives, backed by medical and scientific experts, and delivered by and for the communities directly affected. Lest we forget.'- Dion Kagan, The Age
'...brings to life the dramatic struggle that marked Australia's response to HIV/AIDS- a tale of illness, death, hate, discrimination, unity, hope and ultimately triumph...This is our origin story and it is ultimately a life-affirming tale of triumph over adversity. This is the best account yet of the community's struggle against AIDS and it should be required reading for all gay men. As Cook writes, this is a story that must never be forgotten.'- Tom Hunter, DNA Reviews
'An incredible testimony to the darkest hours of Australia's queer history and the organisation that helped change everything. A story of devastation, resistance and, ultimately, survival, every Australian should know.' - Benjamin Law
Fighting For Our Lives is the inspirational story of communities directly affected by the AIDS crisis. Against a harrowing backdrop of illness and death, fear and anger, hate and discrimination, they bravely took action.
During the darkest years of the epidemic, marginalised communities mostly gay men, sex workers and people who inject drugs came together to form organisations that gave them a voice in the corridors of power. They built an unprecedented alliance with politicians and medical experts, a three-way partnership that made Australia's response to AIDS one of the most successful in the world.
Fighting For Our Lives captures the high-stakes drama of this extraordinary period and the stories of the people at the very centre of a life-or-death struggle. It is a gripping read, an important story, and one that must never be forgotten.
'Fighting For Our Livesisan impressive history on the scourge of HIV/AIDS in Australia, and how affectedcommunities came together and forged a remarkable alliance. Nick Cook'sexhaustive and meticulous research highlights the extraordinary resilience ofthese communities and how they literally rose up and fought for their lives.' - Peter FitzSimons
'This book is proof positive that light, hope and courage can grow out of the darkest corners of human experience.ACON emerged in 1980s to give leadership in the Australian struggle against HIV/AIDS.Soon that challenge expanded to a myriad of new controversies: gay rights, drug use, sex work, trans and prisoner experience.Nick Cook chronicles the terrifying early years of the HIV epidemic, identifying heroes and villains.And the story continues to this day to call forth our "better angels".' - The Hon. Michael Kirby AC CMG, Past Justice of the High Court of Australia and Patron of the Kirby Institute
'Fighting for Our Lives is a well-timed reminder of the potential in this country to transcend a climate of hysteria and reactionary public policy in the coordination of humane, evidence-based public health initiatives, backed by medical and scientific experts, and delivered by and for the communities directly affected. Lest we forget.'- Dion Kagan, The Age
'...brings to life the dramatic struggle that marked Australia's response to HIV/AIDS- a tale of illness, death, hate, discrimination, unity, hope and ultimately triumph...This is our origin story and it is ultimately a life-affirming tale of triumph over adversity. This is the best account yet of the community's struggle against AIDS and it should be required reading for all gay men. As Cook writes, this is a story that must never be forgotten.'- Tom Hunter, DNA Reviews
From award-winning poet Saeed Jones, How We Fight for Our Lives—winner of the Kirkus Prize and the Stonewall Book Award—is a “moving, bracingly honest memoir” (The New York Times Book Review) written...
An inspirational story of resilience and recovery from UFC and WWE legend, Ronda RouseyFrom Sunday Times bestselling author, British Sports Book of the Year Award winner, and trailblazing athlete...
BookLoop is your trusted local Australian destination for books, games, toys, puzzles, tarot cards, stationery, and thoughtful gifts, offering a huge range of carefully curated products for curious minds of all ages. As a proudly Australian-owned bookstore, we are passionate about connecting our community with inspiring reads, creative play, and unique finds that bring joy, spark imagination, and support lifelong learning. Whether you're shopping for bestselling fiction, children’s picture books, educational resources, or non-fiction titles that encourage mental health, mindfulness, and personal growth, our ever-expanding book collection has something for everyone—including titles from local Australian authors that celebrate homegrown talent and storytelling. But we’re more than just a bookstore—our diverse range includes engaging puzzles for solo or family fun, educational and screen-free toys designed to develop skills and creativity, and family-friendly board games that bring people together. If you're looking for something with a little extra meaning, our beautifully illustrated tarot cards and oracle decks are perfect for beginners and seasoned readers alike, with options chosen for their artistry, symbolism, and accessibility. We also carry a range of gifts and stationery, from handcrafted journals and high-quality pens to bookmarks, greeting cards, candles, and calming tools, making it easy to find the perfect present for birthdays, celebrations, or simply because. Every product on our shelves is selected with care, quality, and purpose, making BookLoop a one-stop shop for thoughtful, meaningful shopping that supports creativity and wellbeing. We believe in the value of small business and community connection, which is why we’re committed to sourcing products that reflect our values and offering the kind of friendly, personalised service that big retailers can’t match. When you shop with us, you’re not only choosing beautifully curated items—you’re supporting a local Australian business that genuinely cares. We ship Australia-wide with a flat rate to keep things simple and affordable, and every order is carefully packed and quickly dispatched by our small, dedicated team. Our online shopping experience is safe, easy, and user-friendly, making it convenient to explore our wide range of books, gifts, and games from the comfort of home. We’ve seen a growing demand for titles and toys that support mental health, especially in children and teens, and we’re proud to stock a growing number of books on ADHD, emotional regulation, positive thinking, and self-esteem, as well as calming puzzles and sensory-friendly gifts that are both fun and supportive. Whether you're looking to inspire a young reader, encourage imaginative play, find your next favourite novel, or gift someone something truly special, BookLoop has you covered. Thank you for choosing to shop local and support a business that believes in the power of stories, creativity, and connection—explore our full collection today and experience the difference of thoughtful, heart-led retail with BookLoop.
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