Book Review of Huntington’s and Me     Reviewed by Brendon Monk
A Guide for Young People
by Alison Gray
Huntington’s Disease Association (Wgtn) Inc.
61 pages, $12-00 plus postage.

 Huntington’s and Me is a guide for young people who live in a family where someone has Huntington’s Disease. It provides those young people with an honest account of what Huntington’s disease is, how it affects families, and strategies that they can use to help them accept, and cope with the situation they find themselves in.

 Huntington’s Disease is a genetically inherited disease. For a young person to understand the cause of the disease and their chances of getting it, they must first have a basic understanding of the science of genetics. Huntington’s and Me provides a lucid explanation of the relevant aspects of genetics and leaves the reader with a clear understanding of the factors determining whether somebody will get Huntington’s Disease. It would be a very useful resource for year 11 science students as it provides a real-life application of the genetic theory that they learn as part of their course.

 As well as providing young people with knowledge about Huntington’s Disease, Huntington’s and Me also serves the equally important purpose of making them aware that they are not alone in what they are experiencing. Quotes, poems and stories from young people who have a parent with Huntington’s Disease, provide a poignant account of what it is like to be in that situation. While being honest in its portrayal of Huntington’s Disease the book also reassures the reader that coping with Huntington’s Disease is not all negative. In particular it emphasises the strength and courage that HD families gain.

 Huntington’s and Me is essential reading for any young person in an HD family, someone who has a friend in an HD family, or anybody who wishes to better understand this disease.

 Brendon Monk – Science Teacher