HIV in South Africa: Talking about the big thing

P Of approximately 42 million HIV positive people in the world, 29.4 million live in sub-Saharan Africa and another 4 million in South Africa. Despite its relatively powerful economy and infrastructure, South Africa has been dramatically affected by the HIV pandemic. Using narrative analysis of a three year interview study and textual analysis of political materials, EM HIV in South Africa /EM examines the impact of HIV on people's everyday lives in the country. Examining the relationship between personal accounts of living with HIV and wider medical, political and religious discourses, the book also highlights the significance of class, race and gender on individuals' experiences. /P P /P P These engaging stories of everyday lives provide an accessible way to connect with HIV as a health and development issue. Fascinating, challenging and constructive, this is an important contribution in an area of great social relevance. /P

Corinne Squire is Co-director of the Centre for Narrative Research at the University of East London, UK