The Journey Out: A Guide for and About Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Teens - Softcover

Gr. 7^-12. Unlike Roger Sutton's Hearing Us Out (1994), which uses personal testimony to communicate what it's like to be gay, this uses a traditional approach. In fact, with chapters on sexual orientation (including a controversial chapter noting "a probably genetic basis for homosexuality" ), gay history, stereotypes, and love, the book is a good lead-in to Sutton's. The uncrowded format makes it look approachable, and the tone is never strident, even when the authors are at their most serious--for example, in their refutation of biblical literalists, in their consideration of coming out to parents, and in their discussion of "surviving in a homophobic world." In covering so much, the book sometimes falls short, as in the chapter on health. But there are some unusual features to balance things out, among them, an attempt to acknowledge some of the special concerns of bisexuals and a chapter devoted to terms. Perhaps the greatest contribution the book makes, however, is its identification of a varied gay community that offers support as well as opportunities to become active in fighting harassment and securing basic human rights for all. There are no footnotes, but the authors do provide a bibliography. They also include an annotated list of further readings, with several 1995 titles. Stephanie Zvirin

"You are not alone" is the intrinsic message of this frank, reassuring book aimed at teenagers who either are questioning their sexual orientations or have acknowledged that they are gay. The authors repeatedly emphasize the importance of self-acceptance as they offer advice on such topics as coming out to family and friends, coping with prejudice and rejection, reconciling one's sexuality with the sometimes conflicting tenets of organized religion and combatting myths and stereotypes. In addition to their own authoritative counsel, they include copious quotes from gay or bisexual teens and supply an extensive list of sources of additional information and help, including community centers, crisis hotlines and supportive religious organizations. An explicit discussion of sexually transmitted diseases concludes with basic facts about AIDS and a characteristically sound admonition: "Become a responsible adult-not a statistic." A candid, accessible resource. Ages 12-up.
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.