Look and Listen

Biography

Instead of about me, I'll talk about something interesting - the subject of my book, and how to talk to fundamentalist Muslims about HIV prevention. First, you grab as many free condoms from the Tashkent Peace Corps medical office (sadly, no longer there), then buy a kilo of cucumbers in the bazaar. Go to local school officials and offer to teach their high school students. Odds are that they'll say yes because they're scared to death to talk about it themselves. The principal will tell you that HIV is not a problem in their nation, and will also say they are too busy at that moment to stay for your presentation. You can talk to the Russian kids and to the Uzbek boys, but to the Uzbek girls it's impossible - the mere mention of the word 'sex' makes them ashamed. After the presentation is over, get out of the school as fast as possible because the kids will mob you for your autograph.

Inspiration

My inspiration for 'Taxi to Tashkent'? My former students and friends who taught me the meaning of hard work and perseverance in light of overwhelming odds.