"Just Kids" is a memoir by Patti Smith that explores her youth and artistic journey in New York City during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Central to the story is her close relationship with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, whom she met when they were both struggling artists. Their bond defined their personal and professional lives, serving as a backdrop for their explorations into the vibrant and sometimes turbulent New York art scene.
The book captures the essence of a transformative era marked by creativity and social change. Smith reflects on her experiences in the bohemian world filled with musicians, poets, and visual artists, offering an intimate glimpse into her process of becoming an artist while navigating love and ambition. The narrative is both nostalgic and poignant, illustrating the challenges they faced in pursuit of their dreams.