The subtitle of this book is ‘how parents react when they hear the news’. For many people the process of coming out is an extremely important life event; not just for gay and lesbian people who do the ‘coming out’ but also for their families and friends. This book is essentially a collection of letters and essays from parents of gay and lesbian people who recount – very honestly – the feelings they encounter upon hearing ‘the news’. Don’t expect this book to be a series of mushy stories about how parents ‘always suspected’, and embraced their offspring with open arms after the words ‘I’m gay’ were delivered. Most parents tell of a period of emotional disconnection, when feelings of dismay, anger and guilt are common. However, the letters tend to finish on a positive note, with parents declaring their love for their children. This is not really a book designed for gay and lesbian people in the process of coming out – if anything it is targeted directly at the parents of these people, who may themselves find comfort or instruction from the experiences of others. The author includes a letter from his own mother, and this may prove difficult reading for those who have endured discrimination based on religious beliefs. It is an uncomfortable acceptance of a sexuality not entirely understood – perhaps only tolerated. The inclusion of this letter is a courageous act that will no doubt be food for thought for those who base their thoughts about sexual diversity on religious ideals. Available from Corangamite Regional Library (Warnambool Library) |
Stay tuned for more book reviews!
Bottom of the page quote: "And remember, be nice to straights. It takes two of them to make one of you." Boy George
