Author Shelby Smoak was in his teens when he contracted HIV through contaminated blood products given for his hemophilia in the early 1980s. His memoir begins on his 18th birthday, when his doctor reveals that he has been infected with HIV for the past five years. In a down-to-earth writing style, Smoak describes his efforts to hide his HIV and hemophilia while living in a college dorm and details the day-to-day practical reality of dealing with serious (and seriously expensive) chronic illnesses. In spite of the financial problems, hospital emergency room visits, and side effects, hope shines through in the form of ongoing support from his parents and the return of a past love. The author's writing has appeared in small press journals. Annotation ©2013 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)