"These short, anonymous coming-out stories testify the individuality and universality of the risky experience, across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum and the globe "
This is a collection of coming out stories from anonymous speakers of all kinds, headed simply by their age and location. It brings together all sorts of speakers, in terms of varying geography, age, and identifications, but also the tone and style of the shared experiences. The effect of the collection is almost like looking at a community notice board, or anonymous forum online (but in a very beautifully produced and illustrated hardback book!) Naturally, this means that there is not one consistent voice or mood created – as the blurb says, some have moments of humour and lightness, and happy or at least hopeful endings of the relief and authenticity that comes from coming out. But I would say in general this is not an easy or even an optimistic read. Rather, it’s a humbling reminder of how many individual lives are still absolutely uprooted and upended by their queerness. If you or a loved one have experienced difficulties like ostracisation because of your sexuality, whether through the negative judgement of friends, family, colleagues, or potential partners, this collection may help you to know you are not alone.
'I'm sorry I can't say this to your face, but words fail me every time I try, even though I know you would be fine (and knowing you, you might have already guessed).'
A moving, inspiring and thought-provoking collection of coming-out stories from around the world. From the good, the sad, the surprising and the funny, no two stories are the same, yet all are written by people who share the courage to be vulnerable, take huge risks to find love and acceptance and are brave enough to be their authentic selves. Whether you have any experience of coming out or not, these stories are incredibly powerful and moving.
