Walking the Bridgeless Canyon

Walking the Bridgeless Canyon examines the intersection of LGBTQ history and conservative Christianity in America. The book traces social, medical, political and religious perspectives on sexuality and gender from the late 1800s to the present. Through research and personal narratives, author Kathy Baldock documents how cultural attitudes and religious interpretations regarding sexual orientation have evolved over time. She analyzes key historical events, scientific theories, and theological developments that shaped views within Christian communities. The narrative follows Baldock's transformation from a conservative evangelical to an LGBTQ advocate and ally. Her journey parallels broader changes in American society as she investigates the roots of current cultural divisions. The book challenges readers to examine how religious beliefs, social movements and cultural forces interact to impact human dignity and civil rights. It raises questions about the relationship between faith, inclusion and justice in modern Christian communities.

Readers describe this as a detailed historical examination of LGBTQ issues and Christianity in America. Many praise Baldock's research depth and personal stories from both LGBTQ Christians and religious leaders. Positive reviews highlight: - Clear breakdown of how cultural/religious views evolved - Balanced perspective examining multiple viewpoints - Citations and primary source documentation - Personal interviews adding human context Common criticisms: - Writing style can be dense and academic - Some sections feel repetitive - Organization could be more focused - Length intimidating for casual readers Ratings: Goodreads: 4.5/5 (167 ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (146 ratings) Review quotes: "Meticulous research that helped me understand both sides" -Goodreads reviewer "Sometimes gets lost in historical minutiae" -Amazon reviewer "Changed how I view this intersection of faith and sexuality" -Amazon reviewer

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🌉 Kathy Baldock spent over ten years researching and compiling the information in this book, reviewing over 300 academic sources and conducting numerous personal interviews. 📚 The book explores how cultural and political events, particularly in post-WWII America, shaped modern Christian attitudes toward LGBTQ individuals. 🤝 The author's journey began when she formed an unexpected friendship with a lesbian woman while hiking, which challenged her conservative Christian beliefs and led her to extensive research. 📖 Walking the Bridgeless Canyon examines the relatively recent origin of the word "homosexual" in Bible translations, first appearing in the Revised Standard Version in 1946. 🏛️ The book details how the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) classified and declassified homosexuality as a mental disorder, and the social implications of these changes.