bisexualbookshelf's reviews
793 reviews

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC.

We Were the Universe by Kimberly King Parsons delves into the raw, unfiltered experience of motherhood through the eyes of a hyper-sexual, bisexual narrator. The book's exploration of the loneliness and chaos inherent in motherhood draws parallels to much contemporary women’s literature. However, despite its intriguing themes and moments of engaging prose, the novel ultimately falls short in several critical areas.

The novel's stream-of-consciousness writing style is both its strength and its downfall. While it effectively captures the protagonist's chaotic inner world, the constant shift between real-time interactions with her daughter and flashbacks to her past creates a disjointed narrative. This back-and-forth pacing can be jarring, making it difficult for the reader to stay engaged with the storyline. The long, uninterrupted chapters exacerbate this issue, contributing to a sense of narrative whiplash that detracts from the overall reading experience.

Another significant aspect that impacts the book's appeal is the portrayal of the narrator's bisexuality. The hyper-sexual depiction of the protagonist feeds into harmful stereotypes, reducing her sexuality to mere behavior rather than a multifaceted aspect of her identity. This approach not only feels voyeuristic but also undermines the complexity and depth that could have been explored in her character. The narrator's constant objectification of others adds to the discomfort, making it difficult to connect with her on a deeper level.

Character development in We Were the Universe is another area where the novel struggles. The narrator's actions and attitudes often feel inconsistent and underdeveloped. For example, her insistence on being a stay-at-home mom is contradicted by her resentment toward her husband's life outside the home. This inconsistency, combined with the lack of substantial growth or insight into her character, leaves the reader feeling disconnected and uninvested in her journey.

Despite these critiques, there are moments in the novel that shine. Parsons' ability to articulate the existential void of motherhood and the feral nature of the protagonist's desires offers a raw, unfiltered look at the complexities of modern womanhood. These glimpses of brilliance, however, are overshadowed by the chaotic structure and stereotypical representation that dominate the narrative.

Ultimately, We Were the Universe is a novel with potential that is hindered by its execution. The stream-of-consciousness style, while evocative, becomes tiresome and disorienting. The stereotypical portrayal of bisexuality and the inconsistent character development further detract from the book's impact. At 23% of the way through, it became clear that this book would not surpass a three-star rating for me, leading to my decision to stop reading.

For readers who enjoy deeply introspective and chaotic narratives, We Were the Universe might still hold appeal. However, those looking for a more coherent plot and nuanced character exploration may find themselves similarly disappointed.

Thank you to the publisher and author for the gifted ARC. 

In "Kissing Girls on Shabbat" by Dr. Sara Glass, the author offers a candid exploration of accepting her queerness within the context of being raised in Hasidic Judaism. However, my experience with the book was cut short due to concerns regarding the author's discussions of Israel.

In her author's note, Glass delves into the historical context of psychotherapy and questions the dominance of white male ideologies in the field. She touches on themes of decolonization and liberation, which initially intrigued me. However, as I delved further into the book, I encountered numerous uncritical references to Israel, including Glass's experiences studying there and her sister's marriage to an IDF veteran.

While Glass discusses themes of decolonization and liberation in reference to her own experiences, her silence on the issue of Israel's colonialism and genocide in Palestine felt glaring. Despite acknowledging the colonial roots of psychotherapy, Glass fails to extend this critical analysis to the situation in Palestine. This omission is particularly troubling given the ongoing violence, especially considering the book's publication timeline coinciding with recent events.

The author's failure to address the complexities of Israel's actions perpetuates a pattern of silence and complicity in these oppressive processes. As someone committed to anti-colonialism and solidarity with Palestine, I found this out of alignment with my values. While I acknowledge that the author may not have intended to endorse Israel's actions, her silence ultimately contributes to the erasure of Palestinian experiences.

In conclusion, "Kissing Girls on Shabbat" raises important questions about queer liberation and empowerment within ultra-conservative communities. However, the author's failure to engage with the issue of Israel's colonialism detracts from its overall impact. As a reader with anti-colonial and Pro-Palestine values, I chose to discontinue reading the book due to this significant oversight.

"Thunder Song" by Sasha taqʷšəblu LaPointe is a powerful collection of essays that resists the erasure of Indigenous cultural heritage, offering a poignant exploration of resilience, healing, and self-acceptance. LaPointe's essays serve as a testament to her great-grandmother's efforts to preserve their native Lushootseed language, weaving together narratives of music, identity, and activism.

Throughout the book, LaPointe navigates the complexities of her identity as a queer Coastal Salish person, shedding light on the impacts of racism and colorism on her life. With a reverent and grateful tone, she documents her journey of reclaiming lost cultural practices and traditions, while also advocating for solidarity between movements.

"Thunder Song" is not merely a reflection on personal experiences; it is a fervent reminder of the need to end Indigenous erasure and colonial violence. LaPointe courageously confronts issues such as substance abuse, sexual violence, intergenerational trauma, and suicide, shedding light on the ongoing struggles faced by Indigenous communities in the aftermath of centuries of oppression.

Among the standout essays are "First Salmon Ceremony," where LaPointe explores the process of decolonizing her diet, and "River Silt," a poignant reflection on body, sexuality, and their connection to the wildness of the land. These essays wonderfully exemplify the book's themes of resilience, healing, and the communal wildness shared between humans and the natural world.

Overall, "Thunder Song" is a beautifully written and deeply moving exploration of identity, activism, and cultural preservation. LaPointe's essays offer a compelling blend of personal narrative, cultural critique, and advocacy, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in Indigenous perspectives and the ongoing fight for justice and liberation.

📖 Recommended For: Advocates for Indigenous Rights and Decolonization, Readers Interested in Personal and Cultural Narratives of Resilience, Fans of Billy-Ray Belcourt.

🔑 Key Themes: Resistance Against Indigenous Erasure, Healing through Cultural Reclamation, Exploration of Queer Indigenous Identity, Anticolonialism and Decolonialism.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC!

In Daniel Sarah Karasik's "Disobedience," readers are plunged into a dystopian world rife with surveillance, oppression, and the struggle for identity and love. Shael, a young transfeminine person, navigates the confines of a vast prison camp, where revealing their true self and their forbidden love for Coe, a militant activist, could mean facing violent repercussions. As these dangers converge towards a tipping point, Shael escapes to Riverwish, a settlement striving to defy the camp's repression and forge a new way of life.

Karasik’s novel is adeptly interwoven with elements of queerness, liberation, and transformative justice. From the outset, the exploration of "between" as a gender identity offers a refreshing perspective, resonating with those who feel they exist beyond the binary. Shael's gender journey, especially in relation to their parents, offers a refreshing perspective on gender identity and heritage.

The book delves into the insidious nature of oppression and control, cultivating an immersive surveillance atmosphere and reflecting on the limits of obedience. Karasik's commentary on the shackling of imagination under capitalism resonated with me, reflecting on the erosion of individuality and creativity in the face of capitalist control.

Despite the thematic richness, some aspects of the book fall short. The prose at times feels clunky, hindering the immersive experience. Additionally, the narrative felt unfocused and the pacing uneven, leaving certain plot points unresolved and character development lacking. While the exploration of transformative processes and abolitionist ideologies is commendable, the execution may leave readers wanting more cohesion and depth.

Overall, "Disobedience" offers a thought-provoking exploration of identity, love, and resistance in the face of oppression. While the book grapples with complex themes and ideas, its execution may leave some readers, including myself, wanting more. While I appreciate Karasik’s reflections on power, freedom, and collective liberation, I think this needed a few more rounds of edits and could've benefitted from additional length. 

In David Martinez's poignant debut memoir, "Bones Worth Breaking," he navigates the complex terrain of loss, trauma, and identity with a raw and introspective voice that captivates from start to finish. Martinez delves into the harrowing journey of his incarcerated brother's death during the COVID-19 pandemic, intertwining it with their shared childhood marked by substance abuse and marginalization.

From the outset, Martinez paints a vivid picture of two immigrant skateboarding kids struggling to find their place in a world that seems stacked against them. Through evocative prose, he masterfully illustrates the wounds inflicted by oppression and familial dysfunction, offering a searing critique of the American prejudice and the toll it takes on those ensnared within its confines.

One of the memoir's most compelling aspects is Martinez's unwavering love for his brother, which permeates every page despite the pain and heartache that underscores their relationship. Through reminiscences of childhood escapades and heartfelt reflections on their shared struggles, Martinez illuminates the profound bond that sustained them in the face of adversity.

"Bones Worth Breaking" is as much a reckoning with the past as it is a search for identity and belonging. Martinez grapples with questions of race, heritage, and belonging, weaving together threads of his mixed-race ancestry with a keen sense of introspection and self-awareness. His exploration of cultural identity is both poignant and revelatory, offering readers a window into the complexities of navigating multiple worlds.

At its core, this memoir is a testament to human resilience and the power of relational bonds. Martinez's unflinching honesty and vulnerability invite readers into his world, inviting them to bear witness to his pain and triumphs alike.

Throughout the narrative, Martinez skillfully tackles themes of intergenerational trauma, dysfunctional families, and the enduring legacy of addiction. His prose is lyrical and emotive, infused with a sense of urgency and longing that lingers long after the final page is turned.

In conclusion, "Bones Worth Breaking" is a haunting and unforgettable read exploring racism, incarceration, religious trauma, and the American opioid epidemic. Martinez's courageous storytelling and unflinching honesty make this memoir a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of trauma, identity, and the bonds that hold us together in the darkest of times.

📖 Recommended For: Advocates for Social Justice and Prison Abolition, Readers Interested in Family Trauma Memoirs, Those Seeking Insightful Narratives on Mixed-Race Identity, Fans of Memoirs That Blend Cultural Critique with Personal Reflection.

🔑 Key Themes: Critique of the American Prison System, Sibling Bonding and Loss, Exploration of Mixed-Race Ancestry and Identity, Familial Dysfunction and Healing, Religious Trauma and Deconstruction.

Lamya H's "Hijab Butch Blues" is a revelation, a transcendent memoir that weaves together threads of identity, faith, queerness, and resilience into a rich tapestry of self-discovery. In navigating her journey from childhood to early adulthood, Lamya grapples with the complexities of agency, autonomy, and authenticity, all while traversing the intersections of her queer, Muslim, and immigrant identities.

At its heart, "Hijab Butch Blues" is a testament to the power of storytelling as a tool for liberation. Lamya invites readers into their world with candid introspection, inviting us to witness her struggles and triumphs as she seeks to understand and define herself beyond the confines of societal expectations. Their exploration of queer desire, juxtaposed against the backdrop of cultural and religious norms, is both poignant and illuminating, offering insights into the universal longing for affirmation and community.

One of the book's most striking aspects is Lamya's engagement with her faith and its teachings, particularly as they relate to queerness. Through their reinterpretation of Quranic stories and her personal reflections on the gendered and sexual politics within Islam, Lamya challenges prevailing narratives and confronts the tensions between tradition and self-expression. Her journey towards reconciling her queerness with her spirituality is both deeply personal and profoundly universal, resonating with anyone who has grappled with the complexities of faith and identity.

Lamya's prose is lyrical and evocative, infused with a raw honesty and vulnerability that is as refreshing as it is captivating. From their poignant reflections on queer desire to her incisive critiques of societal expectations and norms, every word is imbued with a sense of urgency and authenticity. Their storytelling is immersive, drawing readers into her world and inviting us to bear witness to her triumphs and tribulations.

Throughout "Hijab Butch Blues," Lamya deftly navigates themes of immigration, Islamophobia, and the intersections of race, gender, and sexuality. Her experiences as a queer, gender nonconforming, hijabi Muslim immigrant serve as a microcosm of larger societal dynamics, shedding light on the ways in which systems of oppression and marginalization intersect and shape individual lives. By centering her narrative on her own experiences, Lamya invites readers to confront their own biases and assumptions, challenging us to imagine a world where difference is celebrated rather than feared.

In conclusion, "Hijab Butch Blues'' is a courageous and radical memoir that celebrates the beauty of self-discovery, resilience, and hope. Through Lamya's journey, we are reminded of the resiliency of queer communities, the need to end Islamophobia, and the radical potential of community care. This book is a testament to the power of self-acceptance and a rallying cry for authenticity, acceptance, and liberation in all its forms.

📖 Recommended For: Advocates for LGBTQ+ Representation, Intersectional Feminist Readers, Those Seeking Provocative and Courageous Memoirs, Fans of Billy-Ray Belcourt’s “A History of My Brief Body.”

🔑 Key Themes: Queer Muslim Identity and Liberation, Exploration of Faith and Sexuality, Confrontation of Cultural Expectations and Gender Roles, Intersectionality and Solidarity in Marginalized Communities.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC! 

In her debut collection of short stories, Puloma Ghosh invites readers into a labyrinth of visceral narratives that traverse realms of desire, transformation, and existential inquiry. Each story, a constellation of its own, beckons the reader to delve into its depths, where sapphic yearnings intertwine with surrealist landscapes and existential ponderings.

Ghosh's "Mouth" is a collection that transcends traditional storytelling boundaries, offering a kaleidoscopic view of human experiences. Through a series of intricately woven tales, Ghosh navigates themes of disappearance, transformation, and the relentless pursuit of identity.

With "Dessication," Ghosh sets the stage for a journey into the depths of desire and disillusionment. Through the lens of a sapphic romance tinged with vampiric undertones, Ghosh explores themes of existential longing and the ephemeral nature of existence. The narrative brims with evocative prose, frenetic pacing, and atmospheric tension. In "Leaving Things," Ghosh invites readers to witness the process of rewilding—a metaphorical journey of feminine transformation and empowerment. Through the lens of environmental justice and personal growth, Ghosh crafts a narrative that is both introspective and illuminating. With "Anomaly," Ghosh ventures into the realm of temporal distortion and existential inquiry. Through the eyes of an enigmatic narrator, Ghosh navigates themes of identity and belonging with nuance and complexity. 

What sets "Mouth" apart is its remarkable cohesiveness. Ghosh demonstrates a keen thematic focus, with recurring motifs and threads that bind the stories together seamlessly. It's a rare feat to find a short story collection that feels so unified in its exploration of diverse themes.

Overall, "Mouth" is a testament to Ghosh's talent and creativity. Her ability to blend sapphic narratives with elements of horror and surrealism is both mesmerizing and thought-provoking. As we emerge from the depths of "Mouth," it's impossible not to be moved by the kaleidoscope of emotions and experiences that Ghosh has crafted. Through stories that transcend genre and convention, Ghosh invites readers to confront the complexities of the human experience with empathy and introspection. “Mouth” is a testament to Ghosh's prowess as a storyteller and a provocateur of thought.

In conclusion, "Mouth" is a triumph—both a testament to Ghosh's prowess as a writer and a captivating exploration of humanity. With its evocative prose and haunting narratives, this collection leaves an indelible mark. Puloma Ghosh is undoubtedly a writer to watch, and "Mouth" is a compelling showcase of her talent and vision.

📖 Recommended For: Advocates for LGBTQ+ Representation, Feminist Readers, Seekers of Surreal and Provocative Narratives, Fans of Carmen Maria Machado's "Her Body and Other Parties."

🔑 Key Themes: Exploration of Desire and Disillusionment, Feminine Transformation and Empowerment, Existential Inquiry and Identity, Reflecting on the Human Experience.

In "Dinner on Monster Island," Tania de Rozario offers a striking collection of essays that delve into the intricacies of queerness, body politics, family trauma, and the Singaporean diaspora. With a deft hand, de Rozario navigates themes of deconstruction, feminism, and the profound experience of growing up with an abusive mother.

From the outset, de Rozario celebrates the power of estrangement as a valid response to familial abuse, offering a bold narrative of empowerment amidst abuse. Each essay resonates with themes of queer empowerment, creating a space for sapphic reclamation and defiance.

One of the collection's strengths lies in its adept critique of fatphobia, especially within the context of racism and colorism. These essays deftly unpack the ways in which societal norms and parental influence perpetuate damaging attitudes towards bodies, particularly within mother-daughter relationships.

Throughout the essays, de Rozario illuminates the inherently political nature of queerness, emphasizing the importance of solidarity in the fight for liberation. Her introspective journey to confront the ghosts of her past underscores the need for collective action and mutual support in dismantling oppressive systems.

Anchored by a rich tapestry of pop culture references—from Carrie to Radiohead—de Rozario's analysis is both insightful and engaging. The collection's fascination with monsters serves as a lens through which to humanize and confront societal anxieties. In "Becoming Monsters," de Rozario offers a feminist, pro-survivor critique of Asian horror films, while in "Looks Like the Real Thing," she explores the artifice of national wealth through the lens of Westworld. The breadth of her critique is remarkable, encompassing topics ranging from antiracism to abolition and Singaporean prisons.

What truly sets de Rozario's writing apart is her razor-sharp prose, which cuts to the heart of complex issues with precision and eloquence. Her words linger, challenging readers to confront their own assumptions and biases. The collection is peppered with poignant quotes that encapsulate both her literary skill and the collection's central themes.

"Dinner on Monster Island" is a feast of intellect and emotion, a tour de force of personal narrative and cultural critique. Through her candid exploration of identity and resilience, Tania de Rozario invites readers to confront their own ghosts and embrace the journey towards liberation. “Dinner on Monster Island” is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the intersections of queerness, trauma, and social justice.

📖 Recommended For: Advocates for LGBTQ+ Representation, Intersectional Feminist Readers, Those Seeking Bold and Insightful Narratives, Fans of "It Came From the Closet"

🔑 Key Themes: Queer Empowerment and Reclamation, Confrontation of Trauma and Family Dynamics, Interrogation of Body Politics and Fatphobia, Collective Action and Solidarity in Liberation Movements.