bisexualbookshelf's reviews
793 reviews

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.

In "Postcolonial Astrology: Reading the Planets through Capital, Power, and Labor," Alice Sparkly Kat embarks on an illuminating journey through the celestial realm, intertwining the cosmic with the political, the mystical with the tangible. Grounded in the acknowledgment of subjectivity and the fallacy of objective truths, Kat's work challenges conventional notions of astrology, urging readers to recognize the inherent biases embedded within systems of classification and categorization.

Kat's prose resonates with a deep-seated understanding of the complexities of identity and power dynamics. They skillfully weave together personal anecdotes, reflective language, and insightful analysis to craft a narrative that is both introspective and emotive. As a reader, I found myself drawn into Kat's world, captivated by their ability to navigate the intricate intersections of astrology, politics, and social justice.

At the heart of "Postcolonial Astrology" lies a powerful critique of the ways in which colonialism and capitalism have shaped our understanding of the cosmos. Kat deftly exposes the ways in which astrology, often dismissed as frivolous or superficial, is intertwined with systems of oppression and control. They challenge readers to interrogate the socio-political implications of astrological practices, urging us to consider the ways in which our beliefs and interpretations are influenced by broader power structures.

One of the book's most compelling aspects is Kat's exploration of the relationship between astrology and liberation. Drawing on themes of solidarity, responsibility, and collective action, they illuminate the transformative potential of astrological practices in challenging dominant narratives and fostering community resilience. Through their incisive analysis, Kat invites readers to reimagine astrology as a tool for political resistance and social change.

Throughout the book, Kat's commitment to inclusivity and representation shines through. They foreground the voices and experiences of marginalized communities, highlighting the ways in which astrology can serve as a vehicle for amplifying underrepresented narratives. By centering the perspectives of those often sidelined in mainstream discourse, Kat challenges readers to confront their own biases and assumptions, fostering a more inclusive and equitable astrological practice.

Kat's writing remains consistently engaging and thought-provoking throughout their debut book. From their reflections on the commodification of spirituality to their critique of liberal individualism, each chapter offers valuable insights into the complexities of contemporary society. By examining the ways in which capitalism, colonialism, and patriarchy intersect with astrological symbolism, Kat encourages readers to critically engage with the world around them, challenging us to imagine new possibilities for collective liberation.

In conclusion, "Postcolonial Astrology" is a timely and essential read for anyone interested in exploring the intersection of astrology and social justice. Through their lyrical prose and incisive analysis, Alice Sparkly Kat offers a compelling vision of astrology as a tool for political resistance and collective empowerment. Whether you're a seasoned astrologer or a newcomer to the practice, this book will inspire you to reimagine the cosmos through a lens of liberation and solidarity.

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

"Coexistence" by Billy-Ray Belcourt is a mesmerizing collection of interconnected stories that delve into the lives of Indigenous characters navigating the aftermath of colonial capitalism. With raw and vulnerable prose, Belcourt explores themes of identity, memory, and resistance, challenging the ways colonialism seeks to define Indigenous people and their relationships.

Throughout the collection, Belcourt deftly examines the intersections of masculinity, queerness, and indigeneity, offering poignant representations of sapphic, bisexual, and achillean experiences. The stories are haunted by the specter of intergenerational trauma caused by genocide, yet they also celebrate the joys and pleasures that colonialism continues to attempt to erase.

One of the collection's strengths lies in its exploration of Indigenous kinship structures and intimate relationships, highlighting the resilience of Indigenous communities in the face of erasure. Belcourt's characters grapple with the complexities of identity and belonging, seeking to forge a legacy that transcends the wounds inflicted by colonial capitalism.

"Coexistence" stands not just a collection of stories, but as a brave call for Indigenous liberation and decolonization. Belcourt skillfully navigates themes of Land Back, environmental justice, and Indigenous resistance, urging readers to rethink their relationship to the land and to each other.

As a reader who appreciates lyrical prose and thought-provoking narratives, I found "Coexistence" to be a deeply moving and impactful read. Belcourt's exploration of time, memory, and place resonated with me on a profound level, reminding me of the importance of acknowledging and confronting the legacies of colonialism. My favorite stories of the collection were Lived Experience, Outside, and Summer Research.

In conclusion, "Coexistence" is a powerful testament to the resilience and strength of Indigenous communities in the face of oppression. Belcourt's storytelling is both captivating and illuminating, offering readers a glimpse into a world shaped by both trauma and triumph. This collection makes a perfect read for anyone interested in exploring themes of Indigenous identity, resistance, and community care.

📖 Recommended For: Advocates of Indigenous Liberation, Lovers of Poetic Prose and Queer Lit, Fans of Kaveh Akbar and Ocean Vuong.

🔑 Key Themes: Indigenous Resilience, Queer Indigeneity, Colonial Trauma, Kinship and Community, Resistance Against Colonialism, Decolonization of Identity and Art.

 Chana Porter's "The Thick and the Lean" plunges readers into a world shaped by the gravitational forces of two moons, molding not just the physical terrain but also the societal frameworks and personal aspirations of its inhabitants. Within this landscape, Beatrice resides in the religious enclave of Seagate, where calorie regulation is equated with spiritual enlightenment. Meanwhile, Reiko grapples with the aftermath of losing her college scholarship, eventually being drawn into an underground world of clandestine survival.

Porter skillfully weaves a narrative that critiques labor hierarchies and the oppressive grip of late capitalism, all while exploring themes of fatphobia, diet culture, and the politics of desire. The story is rich with dynamic, morally complex feminine characters who grapple with class-consciousness, religious trauma, and the boundaries between pleasure and restriction.

The world of "The Thick and the Lean'' is deeply diverse, offering sapphic/bisexual, disability, and fat representation. Through Beatrice and Reiko's journeys, "The Thick and the Lean" reflects on the intersections of gender, sexuality, and capitalism, confronting readers with questions of hedonism, solidarity, and the inherent value of bodily autonomy.

Porter's prose is as sensual as it is evocative, drawing readers into a vivid tapestry of colors, flavors, scents, and textures. The novel resists easy categorization, offering a nuanced exploration of pleasure, sacrifice, and the pursuit of freedom in a world shaped by oppressive forces. Porter's exploration of (un)ethical consumption challenges readers to consider the possibilities of collective liberation amidst a capitalist world that demands sacrifices from women in the name of survival.

At its core, this novel refuses to judge women for their choices in navigating a world that seeks to control and commodify their bodies. It is a poignant exploration of the struggle for autonomy and freedom in the face of societal expectations and constraints. "The Thick and the Lean" is a feast for the mind and body, inviting readers to savor every page and reflect on the power of resistance and solidarity in the face of adversity.

📖 Recommended For: Advocates of Body Liberation, Supporters of Queer and Feminist Rights, Fans of Dystopian Fiction with a Twist, and Anticapitalist Readers.

🔑 Key Themes: Critique of Capitalist Labor Hierarchies, Fatphobia and Diet Culture, Religious Trauma and Sexual Politics, Class-Consciousness and Precarity, Solidarity and Found Family.

DNF at 11%

Immediate turn-off: Multiple uses of the R and F slurs and several antisemitic comments. I understand this is historically accurate to the era, and I can even maybe be okay with the F slurs as some form of reclamation since Maggie is queer, but the R slurs and antisemitism were unnecessary and not used in a critical way.

I understood, based on the book description, that childhood sexual assault would play a role in this. However, since the description implies the accusations of assault were false, I wasn’t expecting to read descriptions of sexual abuse of children. The trial against Lacey’s parents features as a main plot point in the first section of the book, and it’s peppered with descriptions of the sexual abuse the kids claim to have suffered. Quite triggering.

Dissociative amnesia/recovered memories and false memories also play a part in this story. I did not feel that Maggie handled them well, accurately, or with care. She should know that, because of the Satanic Panic and other mass hysteria cases in the late 20th century, "recovered memories" had to undergo a whole rebrand in the psychological community to be taken seriously. Yes, therapists can plant false recovered memories in patients. No, most therapists are not doing this. Yes, we can "recover" a memory of something we never experienced. No, most people suffering from dissociative amnesia are not recovering false memories. With the epidemic of sexual violence that continues to plague our world and the high rates of dissociative amnesia among this population, I was disappointed with the way Maggie handled these experiences. Survivors and neurodivergent/traumatized people deserve better.

Reviews from other readers suggest the content of this book remains dark, bordering on trauma-porn. In addition, other readers have critiqued the book blurb, stating that this book is bettered categorized as literary fiction or coming-of-age and does not have the propulsive, thriller elements it was pitched to have.

All in all, there are other books I want to read that I think would be a better time than this.

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

Abby Geni's "The Body Farm" presents a captivating exploration of the human condition through a collection of haunting stories that delve deep into the enigmatic realm of the physical body. Geni skillfully navigates the intricate demands and freedoms inherent within our bodies, intertwining themes of liberation, fluidity, and acceptance.

"The Body Farm" offers a diverse array of bodily narratives, spanning from humans to plants, animals, and water. Geni masterfully reveals the refusal of bodies to be confined, showcasing the inherent messiness and freedom that accompany corporeal existence. These stories illuminate the potential of bodies in solidarity, urging readers to embrace bodily pleasure and joy.

The standout story of this collection is “Across, Beyond, Through,” which should be considered required reading for parents of transgender, nonbinary, or gender-fluid children. Through this tale, Geni deftly navigates themes of religious trauma and queerphobia, emphasizing the body's innate mutability and the importance of self-determination.

Throughout the collection, Geni probes the boundary between body and world, advocating for acceptance and solidarity with the inherently unknowable nature of the body. Queer representation shines, underscoring themes of fluidity and the consequences of attempting to impose order on the wildness of the body.

While the collection slightly lags in the middle and shifts tone in the second half to explore the body's dangers and vulnerabilities, it remains a compelling examination of the human experience. Geni deftly weaves themes of reproductive justice and the futility of controlling the body, ultimately urging readers to embrace their bodies and celebrate when others do the same.

"The Body Farm" stands as a testament to the resilience and beauty of the human form, leaving readers pondering the boundless possibilities of bodily existence. As a reader, I found myself drawn to Geni's introspective examination of the body's mysteries, prompting contemplation of its inherent unknowability. Through Geni's masterful storytelling, readers are compelled to reconsider their relationships with their own bodies and those that surround them, inviting them on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance in the face of the unknowable.

📖 Recommended For: Explorers of Human Identity, Advocates of Bodily Autonomy, Supporters of LGBTQ+ Rights, Fans of Agustina Bazterrica's "Tender is the Flesh" and the TV show Sense8.

🔑 Key Themes: Bodily Liberation, Fluidity of Identity, Queer Representation, Religious Trauma, Self-Determination, Acceptance of the Unknowable, Reproductive Justice, Embracing Diversity in Bodily Existence.

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

Elwin Cotman’s "Weird Black Girls" is a spellbinding collection of stories that delves deep into the complexities of Black identity, familial relationships, trauma, and the struggle for survival in a world plagued by racism and patriarchy. Each story is a captivating journey that resonates with haunting prose and thought-provoking themes, inviting readers to explore the multifaceted experiences of Black characters navigating a society rife with oppression. Two standout stories, "The Switchin’ Tree" and "Triggered," exemplify Cotman's skillful storytelling and profound exploration of these themes.

In "The Switchin’ Tree," Cotman masterfully weaves together elements of folklore, trauma, and racial injustice to create a narrative that is both visceral and deeply moving. Through the lens of a young Black protagonist grappling with the horrors of abuse and intergenerational trauma, Cotman explores the devastating impact of white supremacy on Black families and communities. The recurring motif of the ominous tree serves as a powerful metaphor for the insidious nature of racism, lurking in the shadows and preying on the innocence of youth.

"Triggered" confronts issues of sexual violence, activism, and complicity within activist circles. Cotman's unflinching portrayal of trauma and its aftermath challenges readers to examine their own biases and complicity in systems of oppression. The story's exploration of the intersectionality of race and gender offers a nuanced perspective on the complexities of activism and the ways in which marginalized communities navigate spaces fraught with danger and betrayal.

The titular story, "Weird Black Girls," culminates in a powerful and enigmatic finale that defies easy interpretation. Through the lens of a mysterious journey into the unknown, Cotman invites readers to contemplate the nature of existence, identity, and the search for meaning in a world fraught with uncertainty. The story's surreal imagery and philosophical underpinnings leave readers with lingering questions and a sense of awe at the depth of Cotman's storytelling prowess.

Across the collection, Elwin Cotman delves into nuanced explorations of masculinity, particularly within the context of Black identity. Through her characters, Cotman presents a multifaceted examination of how societal expectations, trauma, and power dynamics intersect to shape the experiences of Black men. Characters navigate the tension between societal expectations and personal agency, grappling with the need to assert their masculinity while also confronting the limitations imposed by systemic oppression. Through their experiences, Cotman explores themes of vulnerability, resilience, and the quest for self-definition amidst social and cultural pressures.

In conclusion, Elwin Cotman's "Weird Black Girls'' is a remarkable achievement that transcends genre conventions and challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths about race, identity, and power. With its richly drawn characters, evocative prose, and thought-provoking themes, this collection is a testament to Cotman's talent as a storyteller and a vital contribution to contemporary literature.

📖 Recommended For: Advocates of Racial Justice, Critics of Toxic Masculinity & White Supremacy, Supporters of Intersectional Feminism, Fans of N.K. Jemisin's "The Fifth Season" and the film "Get Out."

🔑 Key Themes: Racial Identity, Intergenerational Trauma, Resilience in Adversity, Collective Resistance, Liberation Through Solidarity, Intersections of Race and Gender, Confronting Power Dynamics.

In Rachel Lyon’s "Fruit of the Dead," the tendrils of the original myth of Persephone, Demeter, and Hades intertwine with contemporary struggles of agency, abuse, and the quest for autonomy. Lyon masterfully crafts a narrative that questions traditional power dynamics, delving into themes of toxic families, the search for identity, and the complexities of power within relationships.

The story opens with Cory, a young camp counselor drifting in the complexities of her own existence and suffocating under the grip of her high-strung mother. When offered a job as a live-in babysitter by Rolo Picazo, a wealthy CEO whose allure masks a darker truth, Cory hesitantly accepts, unknowingly stepping into a world of opulence and manipulation. Meanwhile, Emer, sensing her daughter's disappearance, embarks on a journey across land and sea to find her, refusing to relinquish her control over Cory.

One of the most striking aspects of Lyon's narrative is her unapologetic portrayal of familial strife. As Cory navigates the treacherous waters of Rolo’s world, Emer’s determination to rescue her daughter exposes the complexities of maternal love and the desire to mold a child in one’s own image. The tension between mother and daughter in this story crackles with emotional intensity, prompting reflection on the societal pressure to reconcile with toxic parents and the struggle to forge one's identity in the shadow of parental control.

Lyon skillfully intertwines elements of the original myth with contemporary issues, offering a nuanced critique of late capitalism and its power dynamics. Through Cory's experiences on the island, Lyon examines themes of coercion, dependency, and the insidious allure of wealth and privilege. Moreover, Lyon deftly incorporates diverse representation and explores themes of political liberation throughout the narrative. From nonbinary side characters to critiques of neoliberal colonization, Lyon challenges readers to confront issues of privilege and power dynamics in both personal and societal contexts.

Lyon’s prose is lyrical and evocative, capturing the lush beauty of the island landscape while delving into the darker recesses of the human psyche. Scenes brim with sensory detail, immersing the reader in Cory’s tumultuous journey of self-discovery and redemption. From the ethereal beauty of the natural world to the claustrophobic confines of Rolo’s mansion, Lyon’s vivid descriptions breathe life into every corner of her narrative.

As the story unfolds, Lyon deftly navigates themes of identity, agency, and the search for belonging. It was difficult to see Cory suffer from the consequences of a mother who controlled all of her choices without explanation and the ways this left Cory vulnerable to Rolo’s coercive wiles. Throughout the novel, I found myself silently urging Cory to realize her own autonomy and break free of the victimization inflicted by both Rolo and her mother. Lyon’s characters are nuanced and multifaceted, masterfully raising questions about the complexities of human relationships and what we might owe one another.

In conclusion, "Fruit of the Dead" is a haunting and mesmerizing novel that explores the depths of connection and the complexities of power within relationships. Rachel Lyon's reimagining of the Persephone and Demeter myth is a triumph of storytelling, blending mythic inspiration with contemporary relevance. Readers will be captivated by Lyon's vivid prose, compelling characters, and thought-provoking exploration of power, control, and the quest for autonomy.

📖 Recommended For: Fans of Mythological Retellings, Psychological Thriller Enthusiasts, Readers Interested in Power Dynamics, Mommy Issues Readers.

🔑 Key Themes: Reimagining of Mythic Narratives, Examination of Familial Dynamics, Critique of Power Structures, Struggle for Autonomy and Identity, Exploration of Coercion and Control, Redemption and Self-Discovery.