Ludzie kochani,

I have to admit that I wasn't prepared for this.

Life sometimes throws unexpected things our way, and this situation is no exception.

I found myself in a place where I felt a bit lost and unsure.

But you know, even in the face of unpreparedness, there is always a glimmer of hope.

Maybe this is an opportunity for growth and learning.

To step out of my comfort zone and discover new strengths within myself.

Although I wasn't ready initially, I am determined to face whatever comes next.

With your support and love, I believe I can navigate through this uncharted territory.

Thank you for being here with me, my dear people.

"Tramps Like Us" is a captivating story that follows the lives of Joe and his friend Ali.

In a small town, they grapple with queer life, dream of bigger ambitions, and yearn to explore the world. However, their journey takes a tragic turn.

The book also delves into the AIDS epidemic that swept across the country, leaving a profound impact on Joe and his friends.

Although similar stories have been told before, "Tramps Like Us" serves as an important reminder of our past. It shows how far we have come in terms of acceptance and understanding of the LGBTQ+ community, but also highlights the work that still needs to be done.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and would highly recommend it to others who are interested in raw and honest stories with LGBTQ+ focused characters. It offers a unique perspective on a complex and often overlooked part of our history.

Overall, "Tramps Like Us" is a powerful and moving read that will stay with you long after you finish the last page.

A matter-of-factly told story about growing up in the USA in the years just before and at the beginning of the AIDS epidemic.

What really struck me most was, on the one hand, the writing style. It was naturalistic, yet it had a cumulative effect. As the story progressed, all the drugs, violence, and death were described with the same calm attitude as if it were just a weather report. It was almost eerie how matter-of-factly these disturbing elements were presented.

On the other hand, I was constantly amazed at how different the times were back then. You could just get up and go, travel around freely, and work wherever you wanted. Somehow, people not only managed to survive in such a chaotic environment but actually seemed to enjoy life a little. It presented a quite different picture compared to today. In today's world, there are so many restrictions and concerns. We are constantly aware of the potential dangers and risks. But back then, it was a different era, a time when people seemed to have more freedom and a more carefree attitude towards life.

Overall, this story provided a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era and made me reflect on how much things have changed.

**Tramps like Us by Joe Westmoreland: A Captivating Read**

Tramps like Us by Joe Westmoreland is a remarkable book that I had the privilege of reading through an eARC provided by NetGalley for its upcoming rerelease in 2025. With a 4/5 Stars rating, it's clear that this book has made an impact.

However, it's important to note that there are a lot of trigger warnings for this book. If you have any issues with topics such as abuse and substance abuse, it's crucial to be careful before starting. I, for one, didn't expect what this book had in store when I began. I thought it would simply be a lighthearted tale about sex, drugs, and rock n roll. But boy, was I wrong.

As I delved deeper into the story, I realized it was a fictional style retelling of Joe's life. My heart broke throughout as I witnessed the really sad moments of his childhood. Things only got worse during his teenage and young adult years. The final chapter, in particular, was so raw and emotional that it truly made me understand Joe's passion and the importance of his chosen family.

The book strikes a balance between being lighthearted and having dark undertones. It shows how in the past, young people could be careless without fully understanding the consequences, but slowly they started to learn and grow from their experiences. Overall, Tramps like Us was a great book. It had a slow burn that made it feel like reading a biopic you'd see on television. I highly suggest reading it, but again, be cautious if you're sensitive to the mentioned topics.

I highly recommend this gay coming-of-age book. It offers a profound and touching exploration of the journey of self-discovery and acceptance. The story follows the protagonist as he navigates the challenges and joys of growing up in a world that may not always understand or embrace his true identity.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this book is its portrayal of the importance of creating family. The protagonist forms deep and meaningful connections with a diverse group of individuals who become his chosen family. These relationships provide him with the support, love, and acceptance he craves, and they help him to find his place in the world.

The writing in this book is truly amazing. The author has a gift for bringing the characters and their experiences to life, making the reader feel as if they are right there with them. The story is both heartwarming and thought-provoking, and it will leave you with a greater understanding and appreciation of the LGBTQ+ community.

Take a tip from the main character and run off into the world.

Embrace the adventure of hitchhiking from one state to the next.

Leaving behind the familiar and stepping into the unknown, you never know what awaits you on the road.

Meet new people, hear their stories, and experience different cultures.

It's a journey that will broaden your horizons and change your perspective.

So, don't be afraid to take the leap and hit the road.

Who knows where it will lead you?

Maybe you'll discover a new passion, make lifelong friends, or simply have an unforgettable experience.

The world is waiting for you to explore, so go ahead and hitchhike your way across the states.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC!

"Tramps Like Us" is an extraordinary work that feels like a captivating blend of a confessional, a joyous celebration, a profound reflection, and a heartfelt love letter all in one. We accompany Joe, the narrator, as he takes us on a journey through his life. Starting from his humble beginnings in the south, he hitchhikes across the country and spends years in San Francisco.

The novel is rich with elements such as booze, drugs, anonymous sex, and the discovery of a chosen family. At its core, it is filled with hope and love, even in the face of the impending AIDS crisis in the 1980s. With each turn of the page, Joe's chosen family expands, and some of these characters become so familiar and beloved that they seem like they could be our own friends. The new forward and afterward add further depth and enrichment to the story within the pages.

I am truly delighted that this book is being republished! I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who has an interest in gay literature. "Tramps Like Us" has the potential to become a classic and a cornerstone piece of gay literature, standing alongside renowned works like "Giovanni’s Room" and "Stone Butch Blues." It is a must-read for those seeking a powerful and moving exploration of love, identity, and the human experience.