Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!

In the vibrant landscape of contemporary literature, "It Ain't Over Til the Bisexual Speaks: An Anthology of Bisexual Voices," edited by Vaneet Mehta and Lois Shearing, stands as a resounding testament to the power of diverse representation and solidarity in the face of oppression. This anthology, comprising fifteen essays by bisexual activists, theorists, and writers, offers a poignant exploration of the multifaceted experiences of bisexual individuals, challenging stereotypes and advocating for visibility and equity.

From the outset, the anthology boldly confronts bi-erasure, amplifying voices from marginalized communities, including BIPOC, autistic, disabled, polyamorous, transgender, and gender nonconforming individuals. Through a lens of intersectionality, the collection celebrates the fluidity inherent in bisexuality, rejecting monolithic definitions and embracing plurality while also offering a platform for some of the most marginalized voices among us.

Central to the anthology's narrative is the intersectional analysis of bisexuality with other gender and sexual identities, challenging colonial capitalism, heteronormativity, and class-based stereotypes. The essays delve into the complexities of identity, highlighting the profound impact of body politics and disability justice on societal perceptions.

Throughout the collection, themes of anti-monosexism, anti-heteronormativity, and anti-purity culture emerge, fostering discourse about corrective rape, the myth of straight passing, and the Gender Critical Movement. The anthology also addresses the stigma surrounding bisexuality in the context of the AIDS epidemic, emphasizing the importance of queer eldership and solidarity in the face of adversity. Tangible activism and organizing strategies also permeate the essays, with mutual aid emerging as a liberatory practice in many of the pieces.

Among the standout essays, "Bodies of Knowledge: Bisexual Men and Sexual Violence" by Tanaka Mhishi poignantly addresses antimisogyny within queer communities, while Heron Greenesmith's "What If We Weren’t Born That Way?" challenges notions of sexual and gender identity immutability. In addition, Ourania Vamvaka-Tatsi's "A Quick Guide to the Experiences of Arrival and Settlement of LGBTQ+ Forced Migrants in the UK" sheds light on the increased bi-erasure faced by bisexual BIPOC individuals under white supremacy.

However, the pinnacle of the anthology lies in Shiri Eisner's "Why I Call Myself an Anarchabisexual," where the intersections of feminism, anarchy, and queer activism converge. Eisner's eloquent prose dismantles notions of assimilation, advocating for radical kinship and relationality. The essay’s impassioned call to arms against assimilation and the heteronormative status quo is both radical and inspiring. By embracing their identity as a bisexual, genderqueer, disabled activist, Eisner invites readers to envision a world where queerness isn't merely tolerated but celebrated for its subversive potential.

In conclusion, "It Ain't Over Til the Bisexual Speaks" transcends the boundaries of traditional anthologies, offering a profound exploration of bisexual experiences through a lens of intersectionality and collective liberation. As a reviewer, I found the anthology to be a revelatory journey, illuminating the complexities of bisexuality with nuance and empathy. While each essay presents a unique perspective, the overarching themes of resilience, activism, and community resonate deeply, making "It Ain't Over Til the Bisexual Speaks" a must-read for anyone interested in social justice and LGBTQ+ advocacy.

📖 Recommended For: Advocates of LGBTQ+ Rights, Intersectional Feminists, Readers Exploring Bisexual Experiences, Bisexual People Everywhere.

🔑 Key Themes: Bisexual Visibility, Intersectionality, Collective Liberation, Anti-Biphobia, Solidarity, Disability Justice, Sexual Fluidity.