This Book Is Gay

This Book Is Gay is a comprehensive nonfiction guide for LGBTQ+ youth written by Juno Dawson and illustrated by Spike Gerrell. The book spans thirteen chapters covering various aspects of queer life, including sex education, relationships, stereotypes, and LGBTQ+ history. Drawing from her experience as a sexual education teacher, Dawson presents information about both the physical and emotional aspects of relationships. The text combines practical advice with real-world perspectives, featuring contributions from LGBTQ+ individuals who share their experiences and insights. The book addresses topics often overlooked in traditional sex education, aiming to fill knowledge gaps and counter online misinformation. Its scope extends beyond sex education to include discussions of identity, coming out, dating, and building healthy relationships. This Book Is Gay serves as both an educational resource and an affirmation of LGBTQ+ experiences, emphasizing the possibility of fulfilling adult lives for queer youth. The work stands as a significant contribution to LGBTQ+ literature, despite facing challenges and bans in various regions.

Most readers describe this book as an accessible guide to LGBTQ+ topics for teens and young adults. Reviews highlight the casual, humorous writing style and clear explanations of terminology, relationships, and coming out. Readers appreciated: - Direct answers to common questions - Inclusive representation of different identities - Use of illustrations and infographics - Mix of personal stories and factual information Common criticisms: - Too casual/jokey tone for serious topics - Some content too mature for younger readers - Outdated terminology in earlier editions - Focus mainly on UK/Western perspectives Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (17,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (2,000+ ratings) Sample reader comment: "Explains complex topics in an approachable way without talking down to the reader." -Goodreads reviewer Critical comment: "The attempt to be funny sometimes undermines important messages." -Amazon reviewer

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🌈 The author, Juno Dawson, came out as transgender in 2015 and transitioned after writing this book, updating later editions to reflect her journey. 📚 First published in 2014, the book has been translated into multiple languages and became a #1 bestseller in LGBTQ+ nonfiction on Amazon. 🎓 Prior to becoming an author, Dawson worked as a primary school teacher in West Yorkshire, where she developed her accessible writing style and understanding of young people's needs. 📖 The book sparked controversy in several U.S. states, leading to attempts to remove it from school libraries - which ironically increased its visibility and sales. 🏳️‍🌈 The text includes contributions from over 100 LGBTQ+ people who shared their real-life experiences, making it one of the most comprehensive first-hand accounts of modern queer life for young readers.