Just as I Am

By: E. Lynn Harris

Narrated by: Michael Boatman, Brenda Braxton

E. Lynn Harris's blend of rich, romantic storytelling and controversial contemporary issues like race and bisexuality have found an enthusiastic and diverse audience across America. Readers celebrate the arrival in paperback of his second novel, Just As I Am, which picks up where Invisible Life left off, introducing Harris's appealing and authentic characters to a new set of joys, conflicts, and choices. Raymond, a young black lawyer from the South, struggles to come to terms with his sexuality and with the grim reality of AIDS. Nicole, an aspiring singer/actress, experiences frustration in both her career and in her attempts to find a genuine love relationship. Both characters share an eclectic group of friends who challenge them, and the reader, to look at themselves and the world around them through different eyes. By portraying Nicole's and Raymond's joys, as well as their pain, Harris never ceases to remind us that life, like love, is about self-acceptance. In this vivid portrait of contemporary black life, with all its pressures and the complications of bisexuality, AIDS, and racism, Harris confirms a faith in the power of love -- love of all kinds -- to thrill and to heal, which will warm the hearts of readers everywhere.©1999 E. Lynn Harris; (P)1999 Random House, Inc., Bantam Doubleday Dell Audio Publishing, A Division of Random House Inc.

sex

It is so tantalizing.. You've got to read it. He will make you forget where you're at and don't care.

Wonderful Listen

This was my first E. Lynn Harris book. What a delightful and touching story. I can't wait to read more from this author. Narration was superb.

Stay invisible or be seen?

This book starts with a big move for Raymond and career growth for him, but he is still battling the issues behind being in the closet or coming out and letting everyone know about his sexuality. Should he keep it invisible or accept who is. Nicole experiences new love but is she sure it is really love or is she just settling and will she accept the racism from her fiancé or let him go? There are two main characters in this book who share friends this book lets you see the different struggles that not only black gay men face but also black women face. It will make you laugh, and cry all at the same time, in the end friendship and accepting yourself is key in both Raymond and Nicole's lives.

enjoyable

This book was very enjoyable..the characters were fully developed, it had a quick pace and having two readers was a nice change. I look forward to reading more of E Lynn Harris' books.

Nice

I like the outcome for the couples. It is great to see a happy ending for gay and straight couples.