bisexualbookshelf's reviews
793 reviews

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC!

In "The Garden Against Time: In Search of a Common Paradise," Olivia Laing delves into the lush terrain of gardens with a keen eye for the political, the personal, and the profound. Through a masterful exploration of paradise, queerness, and famous English gardens, Laing invites readers on a journey that transcends mere horticulture, delving deep into community care and our relationships with land.

Laing's narrative is a rich tapestry, woven with threads of history, literature, and social critique. With an unwavering gaze, they dismantle our preconceived notions of gardens as mere patches of greenery, revealing them instead as battlegrounds of power and resistance. Through Laing's lens, gardens emerge as sites of both cultural memory and radical possibility, challenging us to rethink our relationship with nature and each other.

What sets "The Garden Against Time" apart is its unflinching commitment to liberation. Laing refuses to sanitize the unruliness of nature, instead celebrating its wild, untamed beauty. In their exploration of Edenic myths and Milton's "Paradise Lost," they offer a searing critique of capitalism and colonialism, exposing how these systems have shaped our understanding and expectations of paradise. 

“The Garden Against Time” moves beyond mere critique to echo calls for solidarity and collective liberation. Through Laing's story of restoring their own garden, we are reminded of the transformative power of tending to the land and tending to ourselves. They skillfully navigate the intersections of class, race, and gender, illuminating how gardens often reflect the power dynamics of the societies that tend them.

In conclusion, "The Garden Against Time" is a tour de force that transcends genre and expectation. With luscious prose and incisive analysis, Olivia Laing invites us to reimagine our relationship with the natural world and each other. This book is not just a garden; it is a sanctuary, a refuge, and a call to arms. As Laing instructs, “Take it outside and shake the seed.”

📖 Recommended For: Advocates for Environmental Justice, Intersectional Activists, Readers Challenging Colonial Narratives, Seekers of Personal Narratives with Political Impact, Fans of Robin Wall Kimmerer’s Braiding Sweetgrass.

🔑 Key Themes: Environmental Justice and Political Liberation, Deconstructing Colonialist Ideals of Paradise, Interconnectedness of Nature and Power Dynamics, Resilience and Healing Through Gardening.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC!

If you're ready to immerse yourself in a whirlwind of unsettling beauty and existential dread, then buckle up for Nour Abi-Nakhoul's Supplication—an enigmatic voyage into the depths of horror. This is a sublime “WTF did I just read” book featuring body horror and weird insect stuff, playing out like a poorly-lit indie horror darling. Abi-Nakhoul's prose is a mesmerizing tapestry woven with threads of doom and empowerment. Each page drips with a visceral sense of foreboding, balanced delicately by the protagonist's evolving sense of agency. From the chilling opening scene of awakening in a basement to the surreal encounters with strangers and the haunting exploration of memory and identity, Supplication is a literary rollercoaster that will leave you breathless. The narrative unfurls with the protagonist awakening in a basement, tied to a chair—a metaphorical rebirth into a nightmarish reality. Death and rebirth become intertwined as the protagonist navigates a labyrinth of uncertainty, encountering surreal horrors and grappling with fragmented memories. Themes of agency, identity, and the elusive nature of humanity permeate the narrative, shrouding the reader in an aura of existential unease. While Supplication dazzles with its lyrical prose and thought-provoking themes, there are moments where the narrative falters, leaving the reader grappling with ambiguity and confusion. The last third of the novel definitely needed some tightening. Supplication will resonate with readers who appreciate atmospheric horror, experimental narratives, and introspective storytelling. Fans of authors like H.P. Lovecraft and Jeff VanderMeer will find themselves drawn into Abi-Nakhoul's dark and surreal world. In the end, Supplication is a haunting meditation on the human condition, offering glimpses into the abyss of our fears and desires. While not without its flaws, it stands as a testament to Abi-Nakhoul's skill as a writer and her willingness to push the boundaries of genre and form.

📖 Recommended For: Fans of avant-garde horror, lovers of atmospheric prose, seekers of philosophical depth, admirers of unconventional narratives, and those intrigued by explorations of existential dread and empowerment.

🔑 Key Themes: Surreal Horror and Existential Dread, Agency and Autonomy in the Face of Uncertainty, Memory and Identity, The Boundaries of Humanity and Inhumanity, The Fragility of Perception, The Complexity of Human Connection.

Nobody Needs to Know by Pidgeon Pagonis is a profound and observant memoir that delves into the complexities of intersex identity and the societal constructs surrounding gender. Pagonis, with their Greek-Mexican-Albanian-American background, brings a unique and diverse perspective to their analysis, weaving together themes of intergenerational trauma and the pervasive impact of gender socialization.

From the haunting childhood desire to conform to societal norms of gender to the profound journey of self-discovery and activism, Pagonis's narrative is both deeply personal and universally resonant. Through their story, they shed light on the invisible power dynamics that shape our understanding of gender and the harmful effects of cisheteronormative beliefs on intersex individuals.

One of the most compelling aspects of Nobody Needs to Know is Pagonis's exploration of the intersectionality of their identity, including the ways in which racism and colorism compounded their medical trauma. By bravely sharing their experiences, Pagonis challenges the reader to confront the inherent biases and prejudices embedded within our society's treatment of intersex individuals.

The memoir adeptly deconstructs the traditional notions of gender and biological sex, dismantling the rigid binaries that confine us. Pagonis's staunch anti-gender essentialism themes offer a powerful critique of the oppressive forces that seek to define and control our bodies and identities.

Throughout the book, Pagonis's activism shines through, illustrating their unwavering commitment to social justice and advocacy. From their fight to end the medicalization of intersex children to their broader efforts to dismantle systemic oppression, Pagonis emerges as a powerful voice for change.Their courageous storytelling invites readers to question the status quo and envision a world where all individuals are free to embrace their authentic selves without fear of judgment or discrimination.

Recommended for readers interested in intersectional feminism, LGBTQ+ rights, and social justice activism, Nobody Needs to Know is a poignant testament to the strength of human will and the enduring quest for liberation and equality.

📖 Recommended For: Advocates for Intersex Rights, Intersectional Feminists, Activists Challenging Gender Norms, Seekers of Personal Narratives with Societal Impact, Admirers of Memoirs That Illuminate Social Justice Issues, Fans of Critical Analysis on Gender and Sexuality.

🔑 Key Themes: Intersex Identity and Autonomy, Intersecting Forms of Oppression, Deconstructing Cisheteronormativity, Exploring Interpersonal and Societal Expectations, Resilience and Self-Discovery, Advocacy and Activism, The Power of Personal Narrative in Social Change.

Thank you so much to the author for the gifted ARC!

In Joelle Baron's "Excerpts from a Burned Letter," queerness is more than just flat representation on a page; it’s palpable and tangible, stretching throughout time into the present. In their collection, Baron reinvents conversations between historical queer women to reflect on their own stifled queer childhood. 

Baron’s imagery grabs hold of you from the first page, painting scenes so vivid you can almost touch them. Lines like "my throat full of grief-thirst that received / no answering gulp” evoke such familiar experiences, they sit like stones in your gut long after you’ve finished reading. 

Yet, the potency of these poems extends beyond their imagery; it lies in the layers of meaning woven throughout the collection. Through metaphor and symbolism, Baron navigates themes of queer identity, desire, and belonging with a profound depth that reverberates with readers. The line "A woman / was a vessel, in one way or another" transcends mere femininity, speaking to the expectations and constraints imposed by patriarchal structures. Moreover, the recurrent allusions to history and mythology imbue the poems with a richness that extends beyond the collection, anchoring each entry within broader cultural contexts.

The poems in "Excerpts from a Burned Letter” don’t just tell stories; they invite you on a journey of discovery, nostalgia, and transformation. Each poem serves as a conduit for shared understanding and connection between reader and writer. Within these verses, Baron delves into disability, deconstruction, autism, motherhood, grief, and more.

One of the collection's most compelling aspects is its embrace of ambiguity and uncertainty. Baron invites readers to grapple with open-ended phrases and fragmented narratives, fostering space for multiple interpretations and personal reflections. This approach not only enriches the poems but also mirrors the multifaceted nature of queer experiences and histories. As Baron asks, “What is queer knowing, / if not an unnamable vortex / of some things human / and some, beyond.” 

At its core, "Excerpts from a Burned Letter" is a poignant exploration of queerness and otherness. Baron confronts oppression and harm head-on, challenging readers to interrogate their own assumptions about identity and difference. Themes of desire, longing, and transformation permeate the collection, buoyed by sensuous and decadent language that beckons readers to read these poems aloud.

In summary, "Excerpts from a Burned Letter" is a captivating and thought-provoking collection that resonates deeply with the queer experience. Joelle Baron's poetry shines with its rich imagery, nuanced themes, and visionary reflections, inviting readers on a transformative journey of self-discovery and affirmation. For queer millennials seeking literature that authentically reflects their values and experiences, this collection is indispensable. Joelle Baron's masterful craftsmanship and heartfelt expression render this collection an indispensable addition to contemporary queer literature.

Highly recommend this one for fans of Gay Girl Prayers by Emily Austin!

Thank you so much to the publisher for the gifted ARC!
 

In Dear Bi Men, J.R. Yussuf undertakes a vital exploration of the complex intersection of biphobia, race, and masculinity. With incisive analysis and reflective personal narratives, Yussuf expertly dismantles stereotypes surrounding bisexuality, particularly within the context of Black identity. The book serves as a beacon of visibility in a landscape often marred by bi-erasure and misconception.

Yussuf delves into the various roots and manifestations of contemporary biphobia, revealing its many origins in the HIV/AIDS epidemic and the impact that’s had on today’s conceptions and stigmas. Through a lens of anti-patriarchy and anti-racism, Yussuf reveals the dual struggle faced by bisexual people in unlearning both homophobia and biphobia. While the book speaks directly to bi men at times, the insights provided are universally enlightening, offering valuable lessons for all readers.

One of the Dear Bi Men’s strengths lies in its radical inclusivity, reflecting Yussuf’s commitment to collective liberation and encouraging the same from readers. Despite its focus on bisexual masculinity, Yussuf extends his analysis to acephobia, femmephobia, and transphobia, never failing to employ gender-inclusive language. However, at times, the book's structure may feel somewhat disjointed, with intermittent questions and reflections disrupting the flow of the book’s investigation.

Nevertheless, Yussuf’s exploration of biphobia is both comprehensive and compassionate, shedding light on its multifaceted manifestations and impacts. Dear Bi Men deftly addresses the intersection of biphobia with cisnormativity and challenges various STI stigmas perpetuated by bias and stigma. The book also delves into the complexities of power dynamics and consent, advocating for self-acceptance and empowerment as catalysts for collective liberation. Yussuf’s call for accountability and growth resonates throughout the text, urging readers to confront and rectify past harm while striving for a more equitable future. 

In conclusion, Dear Bi Men is a groundbreaking work that offers profound insights into bisexuality, racism, and the complexities of masculinity. Regardless of sexual orientation, readers will find invaluable wisdom and practical guidance within its pages, making it essential reading for anyone committed to fostering inclusivity and equity in today’s world.

📖 Recommended For: Advocates of LGBTQ+ Liberation, Supporters of Bisexual Visibility, Admirers of Intersectional Analysis, Fans of Sherronda J. Brown, Da'Shaun L. Harrison, and Audre Lorde.

🔑 Key Themes: Bisexual Resilience, Intersectional Identity, Biphobia and Racism, Building Community and Solidarity, Resistance Against Oppression, Embracing Authenticity and Self-Acceptance.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC!

In the realm of experimental literature, Myriam LaCroix’s debut novel, "How It Works Out," stands as a bold exploration of queer love through a series of unconventional scenarios. Each chapter presents Allison and Myriam, the book’s sapphic couple, in a different surreal setting, ranging from bizarre to poignant.

From discovering a baby to navigating through acts of cannibalism, LaCroix delves into the depths of human connection with dry humor and dark wit. The book reads like a collection of experimental short stories, each chapter a unique attempt to unravel the complexities of queer love. Amidst the absurdity, themes of solidarity and community emerge, highlighting the resilience and vulnerabilities inherent in relationships. Allison and Myriam’s journey reflects the struggles of opening up and trusting one another, grappling with the boundaries of sacrifice in the name of love.

Despite the varied scenarios, the underlying pulse of love beats throughout the entire narrative. LaCroix skillfully captures the essence of queer desire and longing, infusing the story with rich representation and relatable experiences. Through Allison and Myriam, the author paints a vivid portrait of the hunger and driving force of love, tempered by moments of doubt and self-discovery.

One of the book’s strengths lies in its exploration of different modes of expressing love and care. LaCroix masterfully navigates themes of power dynamics, anticapitalism, and queer liberation within the context of the couple’s relationship, offering a nuanced portrayal of contemporary queer experiences.

The prose is infused with lyrical beauty, juxtaposed against moments of body horror and gore. LaCroix’s writing style and characters, both reminiscent of the movie Bottoms, draw readers in with their emotive depth and introspective candor. The narrative unfolds with a natural flow, punctuated by reflective language and poignant musings.

As a reader deeply invested in diverse representation and queer liberation, I found "How It Works Out" to be a refreshing addition to contemporary LGBTQ+ literature. LaCroix’s exploration of queer love transcends conventional boundaries, offering readers a captivating and thought-provoking journey.

In conclusion, "How It Works Out" is a compelling and daring exploration of sapphic love, wrapped in dark humor and poignant introspection. Through Allison and Myriam’s journey, Myriam LaCroix invites readers to embrace the complexities of human connection and celebrate the resilience of the human spirit.

📖 Recommended For: Sapphic Millennials, Challengers of Traditional Literature, Seekers of Unconventional Romance, Admirers of Speculative Fiction, Fans of Carmen Maria Machado's "Her Body and Other Parties" and the film "Bottoms"

🔑 Key Themes: Queer Love and Identity, Subverting Norms and Expectations, Surreal and Imaginative Storytelling, The Intersection of Love and Horror, Reimagining Relationships, Embracing the Absurd, The Power of Human Connection.

"Horse Barbie" is a profoundly impactful memoir by Geena Rocero, a trans Filipina pageant star, offering a poignant exploration of femininity, identity, and resilience in the face of oppression. Rocero's narrative is a powerful testament to the challenges and triumphs of navigating the intersections of gender, race, and colonial history.

Throughout the memoir, Rocero fearlessly delves into the complexities of feminization, shedding light on the relentless pressure to conform to narrow standards of beauty and gender expression. Her candid reflections on the fear of being "clocked" are extremely poignant, offering insight into the lived experiences of trans individuals, particularly transfemmes, in society.

Against the backdrop of the American modeling industry, Rocero unveils the insidious forces of white supremacy, beauty standards, colorism, and transphobia, illuminating the systemic barriers faced by marginalized communities. Her unwavering commitment to anticolonial and decolonial themes underscores the importance of reclaiming and celebrating trans Filipina heritage.

Central to Rocero's narrative is the theme of chosen family and solidarity within the trans community, highlighting the transformative power of support and collective action. Her portrayal of trans joy and resilience amidst adversity serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for readers grappling with their own identities and struggles.

Rocero's voice is both intimate and inviting, infused with moments of humor and levity that balance the weight of the narrative. Her journey as an immigrant navigating the complexities of identity and assimilation in America offers a nuanced perspective on the intersectionality of gender and migration.

"Horse Barbie" is not merely a memoir; it is a manifesto of trans empowerment and liberation, challenging societal norms and reclaiming agency over one's identity. Rocero's unwavering commitment to self-love and acceptance serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and beauty inherent in trans existence.

As Rocero eloquently states, "trans joy can never be fully extinguished," and "Horse Barbie" is a testament to the enduring spirit of resilience and determination within the trans community. Through her courageous storytelling, Rocero invites readers to reimagine their own histories and embrace their authentic selves with pride and confidence. "Horse Barbie" is a transformative and essential read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of gender, identity, and the power of self-affirmation. Geena Rocero's memoir is a triumph of trans resilience and joy, and I hope you’ll pick up a copy today. 

📖 Recommended For: Advocates of Trans Liberation, Critics of Gender Norms & Roles, Supporters of Intersectional Feminism, Advocates of Decolonialism.

🔑 Key Themes: Trans Empowerment, Decolonization of Beauty Standards, Chosen Family and Community Support, Immigrant Experience and Identity, Resilience and Self-Love, Intersectionality and Solidarity, Reclaiming Trans Joy and Agency.

In "Divided Island" by Daniela Tarazona, readers are invited into a haunting and introspective journey through one woman’s struggle with cerebral dysrhythmia. Translated with care and precision, this novella is a quiet yet profoundly eerie exploration of the human psyche.

Tarazona's prose is both observant and elusive, weaving a tapestry of poetic language that evokes deep emotions and lingering impressions. Despite its brevity, the novella is rich in depth and feeling, capturing the essence of the narrator’s internal turmoil with haunting clarity.

At its core, "Divided Island" delves into themes of autonomy and control, as the narrator grapples with the fractured nature of her own identity. Through the lens of cerebral dysrhythmia, Tarazona illuminates the fragility of the mind and body, highlighting the inherent struggles of the human condition.

The novella is highly experimental, challenging readers to confront the limitations of language in capturing the complexities of lived experiences. Tarazona deftly navigates the intricacies of the human psyche, crafting a narrative that is as enigmatic as it is thought-provoking.

While the novella may leave readers with unanswered questions and a sense of ambiguity, its elegant and evocative prose ensures that it remains a captivating read from start to finish. I often wasn’t exactly sure what was going on throughout this book but found I couldn’t step away from Tarazona’s indelible prose. While I’m not sure the novella added up to anything impactful for me, I still enjoyed reading Tarazona’s compelling glimpse into human consciousness.

I would recommend this one for fans of Anne Boyer and Eliza Berry Callahan. 

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC!

"Intertwined: Women, Nature, and Climate Justice" by Rebecca Kormos is an exploration into the interconnectedness of gender liberation and environmental stewardship. Kormos eloquently argues that true gender liberation cannot be achieved without a simultaneous acknowledgment of the importance of environmental justice. Through a series of interviews, the book presents a rich oral history showcasing the indispensable role women have played in caring for the land throughout history.

Kormos skillfully navigates the complex relationship between climate events and gender-based violence, shedding light on how environmental crises exacerbate existing inequalities. Drawing upon Indigenous knowledge and frameworks, "Intertwined" powerfully illustrates the detrimental impacts of colonialism on both the land and women, highlighting their disproportionate vulnerability to climate-related displacement and harm.

The book is meticulously researched, blending referenced literature with ethnographic interviews to provide a comprehensive analysis of the intersection between feminism and climate justice. However, despite its strengths, I couldn't fully endorse "Intertwined" due to some notable limitations.

One area of concern is the book's political stance, which diverges from my own beliefs and frameworks. While Kormos advocates for transforming existing institutions, I found myself yearning for a more abolitionist perspective. Additionally, the lack of gender-inclusive language and queer representation within the analysis of feminism and climate justice is a notable oversight.

Furthermore, the uncritical portrayal of NGOs and the absence of critique regarding labor hierarchies left me wanting more nuanced discussions. Instead, these entities are sometimes idealized, detracting from the book's overall depth.

In conclusion, "Intertwined" offers valuable insights into the intersection of women, nature, and climate justice, making it a suitable choice for individuals early in their exploration of radical concepts. However, for readers seeking a more comprehensive and critically engaged analysis, this book may fall short. While it illuminates important issues, it leaves many potential intersections and critiques unaddressed.

Overall, "Intertwined" serves as a thought-provoking entry point into the discourse on gender and environmental justice but ultimately leaves room for further exploration and interrogation of its themes.

In Sunaura Taylor's groundbreaking work, "Beasts of Burden: Animal and Disability Liberation," readers are invited into a realm where the intersections of disability justice, animal rights, and environmental activism converge. Taylor's poignant exploration sheds light on the parallels between ableism, speciesism, and capitalism, urging us to reconsider our perceptions of normality and challenge the systems of oppression that underpin our society.

The book delves deep into the intertwined narratives of disability and animal liberation, offering a critical analysis of the inherent ableism and anthropocentrism embedded within our language, culture, and institutions. Taylor deftly navigates complex topics with a blend of introspection and emotive language, inviting readers to reevaluate their understanding of cognition, agency, and autonomy.

One of the most striking aspects of Taylor's work is her ability to draw parallels between seemingly disparate struggles. Just as the queer community grapples with the need to assert and validate their identities, individuals with invisible disabilities often find themselves unseen and unrecognized in a society that privileges able-bodiedness. Through insightful anecdotes and reflective commentary, Taylor challenges us to confront the limitations of our perceptions and embrace a more inclusive understanding of humanity.

Throughout the book, Taylor presents a multifaceted examination of the environmental and ethical implications of our treatment of animals. Drawing on historical examples and contemporary realities, Taylor exposes the insidious ways in which profit-driven motives prioritize exploitation over empathy. Through powerful storytelling and incisive analysis, Taylor urges readers to reexamine their relationship with capitalism and advocate for a more equitable and compassionate society.

Central to Taylor's thesis is the recognition of the interconnectedness of all forms of oppression. By interrogating the intersections of race, ability, and species, she uncovers the underlying power structures that perpetuate inequality and exploitation. Through a lens of anti-capitalism and disability justice, Taylor advocates for a more compassionate and equitable approach to our interactions with animals and the environment.

"Beasts of Burden" is not merely a critique of the status quo but a call to action for readers to challenge entrenched systems of oppression and advocate for radical change. Taylor's accessible prose and insightful commentary make this book a must-read for anyone interested in the intersections of disability rights, animal liberation, and environmental justice.

In conclusion, "Beasts of Burden: Animal and Disability Liberation" is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of the interconnected struggles for justice and liberation. Sunaura Taylor's impassioned advocacy and rigorous analysis offer readers a compelling vision of a more equitable and compassionate world.

📖 Recommended For: Advocates for Disability Justice, Animal Rights Activists, Environmentalists Engaged in Intersectional Advocacy, Those Seeking Nuanced and Interconnected Perspectives.

🔑 Key Themes: Intersections of Disability and Animal Liberation, Critique of Capitalism and Industrialized Agriculture, Reimagining Notions of Normality and Agency, Collective Struggle for Justice and Liberation.