Thomas Andrieu is quiet, withdrawn, isolated from everyone. However, with Philippe he opens up, reveals a loving side, and is more carefree. Thomas is a tragic character, the epitome of regression, shame, and guilt. He cannot accept that he is gay and therefore hides himself and forces Philippe to feel inadequate, angry and jealous. Be aware that this is not a happily-ever-after tale and there are several mentions of AIDs, as many of Philippe's friends succumbed to the disease. But the story of Thomas and Philippe starts out just before the epidemic really takes a hold. This book may have been short, but it packed a punch and was full of life. It was honest and heart breaking. This book reveals a history that many people wish to forget or refuse to admit, a history that seems to be repeating itself. As if the world cannot learn from its mistakes, from forcing people to hide who they are because it goes against some antiquated belief that homosexuality is wrong. Maybe if people realized that love is love than there would not be so much horror in this world. Philippe and Thomas's story is painful, but it is also revealing and the moments they did share together shaped the lives of these two men. I highly recommend this book to everyone, to understand a life lived in fear and repression. Philippe Besson's writing is breathtaking and Molly Ringwald perfectly conveys all the nuances.
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