A broad overview of LGBTQ rights from ancient times to the present, this book emphasizes the U.K. and U.S. but occasionally ventures farther afield to offer a glimpse of queer people around the world. Notably, almost half the book is devoted to pre-Stonewall history, with glimpses of what we know about LGBTQ people in earlier eras. The historical survey covers politics, culture, media, social movements, and more, and is interspersed with snapshot biographies of a variety of LGBTQ people throughout history as well as profiles of young LGBTQ people today. The book also acknowledges the impact of colonialism on LGBTQ rights (or lack thereof) around the world, and on the differing experiences within the LGBTQ community, based not only on specific LGBTQ identities, but also on racial/ethnic identities, faith, and disability status.
A timeline, glossary, call-out boxes with additional tidbits, and a bright design add value and fun. My one small criticism is that the definition of “Dyke” in the Glossary says: “A slang, often offensive term for a lesbian,” without noting that the term has been reclaimed in a positive way by many lesbians.
Any survey such as this is bound to have gaps, but this small volume packs a lot in. It may not go into too much depth on any one topic, and may leave out some people we think deserve a place, but as an appetite-whetting book for those new to the richness of LGBTQ history and culture, this is a valuable addition to any home or library collection and an accessible entry point for further exploration.
