Books Like...

'The Deviant's War' by Eric Cervini is a gripping account of the early history of LGBTQ advocacy in the United States, focusing on the life and struggles of Frank Kameny. The book delves into the battles faced by Kameny and the LGBTQ community, highlighting the challenges, activism, and spirit of the movement during a tumultuous period. Through engaging prose, the author brings to light the injustices, discrimination, and courage of those who fought for equality, providing a detailed narrative of a pivotal era in LGBTQ history.

The narrative not only captures the personal journey of Kameny but also intertwines it with the broader context of societal and political events, such as the Vietnam War, civil rights movements, and the Red Scare. By exploring Kameny's fight against discrimination and his advocacy for LGBTQ rights, the book sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of history, offering valuable insights into the struggles and triumphs of the early Gay Liberation movement.

'Real Queer America: LGBT Stories from Red States' by Samantha Allen is a memoir and reportage that takes readers on a journey through various red states in America, highlighting the stories of queer individuals who have carved out spaces for themselves in conservative regions. The author, a queer person herself, explores the struggles and triumphs of LGBTQ communities in red states, shedding light on their experiences, activism, and resilience. Through personal anecdotes and interviews with local activists and community members, Allen paints a vivid picture of the challenges and progress within these communities, offering a unique perspective on queer life outside of traditional urban hubs.

The book combines travel journalism with political activism, offering a blend of memoir moments and in-depth exploration of queer culture in the cities and states visited by the author. Allen's writing style is warm and inviting, full of vulnerability and perspective, as she delves into the complexities of identity, geographical belonging, and the fight for LGBTQ rights in hostile environments. Through heartfelt storytelling and nuanced observations, 'Real Queer America' celebrates the courage and resilience of queer individuals in red states, challenging stereotypes and inspiring readers to rethink their perceptions of LGBTQ life in America.

A Black Women's History of the United States by Daina Ramey Berry is a rich and insightful exploration of the history of Black women in America, spanning from 1619 to the present day. The book sheds light on stories that are often overlooked or not taught in traditional education, providing a deep dive into the experiences, struggles, and triumphs of African American women and their enslaved ancestors. The writing style is dense and fascinating, offering an expansive knowledge of history with abundant political and social context for each time period covered.

The book challenges the inadequacies of American public education in teaching Black history, especially the stories of Black women. It is described as a gem that everyone can benefit from reading, offering a different perspective on American history through the lens of Black women's experiences. Readers are left with a clear understanding of the significant contributions and sacrifices made by Black women throughout history, inspiring a deeper appreciation and awareness of their impact on shaping America.

'Seeing Gender: An Illustrated Guide to Identity and Expression' by Iris Gottlieb is an educational and comprehensive guide that explores topics related to gender, identity, sexuality, and intersectionality. Through colorful illustrations and engaging writing, the author covers a wide range of subjects including queer history, BIPOC communities, social issues, and personal anecdotes. is praised for its ability to break down complex topics in a way that is accessible to readers of all ages, making it a valuable resource for individuals looking to learn beyond traditional gender norms.

With a focus on inclusivity and understanding, 'Seeing Gender' delves into historical and personal narratives to provoke thought and discussion on gender structures and LGBTQ+ issues. is not only informative but also thought-provoking, humorous, and visually captivating, making it a perfect tool for those seeking to educate themselves or others on diverse identities and expressions.

'An Illustrated Book of Bad Arguments' is a concise guide to logical fallacies, presented through illustrations and clear examples. While the descriptions and definitions of logical fallacies are accurate and well-presented, the book also delves into biased examples that may confuse readers. Despite its short length, the book aims to educate readers on identifying and understanding various logical fallacies, making it a valuable resource for those looking to improve their critical thinking skills.

'Transgender History' by Susan Stryker is a comprehensive account of the history of transgender activism in the United States. It delves into the relationships between various groups such as drag, gay, and feminist communities and how they interact with the transgender community. The book provides insights into the struggles and advancements of transgender rights movements, shedding light on the complexities involved in supporting trans rights. Susan Stryker presents historical information about transgender life and gender pioneers from the 19th and 20th centuries, offering a framework for transgender feminism.

LatinoLand: A Portrait of America's Largest and Least Understood Minority by Marie Arana is a sweeping exploration of Hispanic life in America. The book intertwines personal narratives, historical insights, and over 200 interviews to highlight the diverse contributions Latinos make to society. Arana begins her narrative with her family's arrival in Miami in the 1950s, capturing the growth of the Latino population and emphasizing the complexities of Hispanic identity. Readers are taken through a rich array of themes, from historical injustices to contemporary success stories, showcasing the challenges and triumphs of the Latino community in the United States.

Arana's writing style is engaging and brisk, making complex topics accessible to the reader. She combines a celebratory tone with poignant observations about cultural identity, assimilation, and the need for greater representation. The book reads like a series of colorful portraits rather than a monotonous history, providing a fresh perspective on the Latino experience. Though some critiques point to a lack of depth in certain areas, the overall narrative captivates with its multitude of voices and perspectives, urging a deeper understanding of this vibrant and essential part of American society.

'Bi: The Hidden Culture, History, and Science of Bisexuality' by Julia Shaw explores the history and identity of bisexuality, shedding light on the struggles and violence faced by the bisexual community while also celebrating the joy and beauty of being true to oneself. Shaw presents the information in an engaging and accessible way, incorporating history and science to help readers better understand bisexuality. delves into the challenges faced by bisexual individuals, the importance of recognizing the 'B' in LGBTQ, and the need to embrace and support the bisexual community.

'Harvest of Empire: A History of Latinos in America' by Juan Gonzalez is a comprehensive exploration of the intertwined history between Latin America and the United States. The book delves into the reasons behind the south-north migration of Latinos and sheds light on the impact of US military and economic interventions in Latin American countries. Through personal accounts and historical analysis, Gonzalez uncovers the prejudice, discrimination, and challenges faced by Latinos in the US, while also highlighting their significant contributions to American culture. The writing style is described as engaging, lively, and informative, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the complexities of Latino immigration and cultural integration in the US.