It Ain't Over Til the Bisexual Speaks: An Anthology of Bisexual Voices

by Various, Lois Shearing (Editor), Vaneet Mehta (Editor)

'Bisexuality allows for so many ways to desire and to express that desire. Plurality is at the heart of bisexuality'
The bisexual experience is, by necessity, incredibly diverse - we are likely to be attracted to different genders, form part of multiple marginalised groups, and be perceived (depending on the gender of our partner) in wildly different ways.
This anthology is a radical and ambitious attempt to capture the incredible multiplicity of bisexual identities. With essays that unpack the intersectionality and conflict of bisexuality with history, language, sexual violence, class identity, religion, polyamory, gender critical ideology, fatness, trans activism, the asylum system, literature and anarchy - this collection of bi voices demands to be heard.
With contributions from Shiri Eisner, Hafsa Qreshi, Zachary Zane, Heron Greenesmith, and many, many more...

Genres: Nonfiction, LGBT, Queer, Bisexual, Essays, Feminism, Contemporary

237 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 21, 2024

About the author

Various is the correct author for any book with multiple unknown authors, and is acceptable for books with multiple known authors, especially if not all are known or the list is very long (over 50).

If an editor is known, however, Various is not necessary. List the name of the editor as the primary author (with role "editor"). Contributing authors' names follow it.

Note: WorldCat is an excellent resource for finding author information and contents of anthologies.

Reviews

[Corinne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have rarely read a collection of semi-academic essays and I don't think I realized that was what I was getting into (this is a habit of mine apparently with ARCs.) I certainly was not expecting the collective pseudo-academic tone, so I had to adjust my expectations while reading so that I didn’t feel like I was being lectured at.

What I liked:
• Truly varied, diverse and intersectional perspectives - many of which were new to me. It felt like it was very thoughtfully curated in that way.
• Among the things that stood out to me as new and interesting were the UK-centrism and the piece about anarchism. I also loved the "Where Fatness and Bisexuality Meet" essay.
• Lots of parts where I was able to relate, understand and feel seen. A sense of solidarity with the writers in some cases.
• It was pretty readable - I certainly moved through it much more quickly than I usually do with non-fiction.

What didn't work as well for me:
• There was a fair amount of repetition within and across essays and some individual essays were particularly unpolished, which took away from the persuasion.
• I believe and understand the need for activism but there were times where I felt like some of the described marginalization felt like . . . a stretch? Almost like data hunting to prove a point that felt like it was sort of mining transphobia data for proof of bi oppression.

Overall, this book was eye opening, upsetting (because of what was exposed) and empowering and I'm glad to have read it. I'm not sure I'm the best suited to review it - for people who are coming at the subject with a more academic angle, you will probably appreciate the ample references and suggested further reading.

I received a digital Advance Reader Copy from NetGalley and Jessica Kingsley Publishers in exchange for an honest review.

[Matthew Yeldon · Rating 3 out of 5]

A mixed bag of predominantly first-person essays. I appreciate all the contributions but the better essays are the less egotistical ones. Vaneet Mehta’s take on the invisibility of bi-men lines up with my own which brings enormous satisfaction. It’s a diverse group of writers worth visiting.

[Shannon Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't know exactly what I was getting into when I requested this from NetGalley, but I ended up loving it despite its academic tone. Each chapter was an essay from a different bi+ activist and they covered a wide range of topics, from refugeeism to fatness to trans rights, and how they intersect with bisexuality. Each of them were very eye-opening and validating. This was a perfect book to read during election season–hearing about how so many people are working to make a difference in their communities lent me a lot of hope.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!

[Jenny Blacker · Rating 5 out of 5]

DNF

Absolutely my fault, not the book. Just got caught up in moving house and didn't manage to finish it before access expired

I did really enjoy the bits I managed to read, and will seek this out in future to actually finish it!

I received an advance copy for free from NetGalley, on the expectation that I would provide an honest review.

[Chanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the range of essays included here. They were personal and reflective, but they had a wide range of vantage points. The bottom line, however, felt similar - I strong support of the B in the LGBTQ+ rainbow. I read this as an ARC from NetGalley.

[Evmisosc · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you are interested in the topic on an academic level, I can definitely recommend it. Not all the texts were my cup of tea, but it was interesting to read about lives that are so different from my own experiences, nonetheless.

[Ella · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this! It was so interesting to read about different aspects of the bisexual experience.

[S.J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5.

It Ain't Over Til the Bisexual Speaks: An Anthology of Bisexual Voices is a collection of essays by various authors about topics relating to bisexuality. Once it's out, I'm excited to add a physical copy to my shelf! 


Some of the essays that stood out to me included: the story of the BiPanLibrary- the representation and how the books are in conversation with each other; an examination of bisexual masculinity; an examination of UK asylum laws and how they effect LGBTQ people and bisexuals specifically; how one author's Orthodox Jewish religious background contributed to her bisexual activism.


This really has something for everyone: there's an essay about bisexual anarchism and the challenges two bisexual anarchist groups faced; an essay about how bisexuality and fatness challenge toxic cultural norma and the Protestant work ethics denial of pleasure. Each essay also cites its sources and some name historical bisexual activists, so this book is a good jumping off point for further reading! It's definitely a good balance between informative without being overly dense, accessible to a new reader, but something to add if you've read a lot of bisexual books. 


I would note that the majority of the authors are UK based, and most of the essays reference UK laws, activism, and experiences. So if you're reading this, expect to hear a lot about the UK, but much of it is broadly applicable and its awesome that this is not as US centric as many other bisexual books that I've read. 

I received an ARC from #Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 

[Eden Gatsby · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a bisexual, non binary, working class, plus size, AuDHD and chronically ill person I found this book so validating as well as extremely informing and helpful in understanding bisexuality and intersectionality. Each essay was so well written and thought through, with plenty of personal and relatable touches that made me feel empowered, understood, heard, valid and educated. I now have a super long list of resources to dive into to learn more and come to further acceptance of my bisexuality and how it crosses over with other parts of me.

[Rachael Arsenault · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a digital ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I felt so seen reading this essay collection. It holds a wonderful breadth of voices, experiences, and perspectives, and I feel like any reader could gain something from at least one of these essays. Some pieces felt very casual and anecdotal, while others presented more of a sense of academic rigor, which will also appeal to a range of readers.

Some essays I loved more than others - and a couple were a bit of a miss for me - but overall this was an extremely solid anthology.

[QueenDee · Rating 4 out of 5]

#NetGalley #ItAintOverTiltheBisexualSpeaks
I was allowed to read this book early in exchange for my honest review. As a Bisexual woman, I relate to alot of what the authors felt with topics such as biphobia, bi-erasure, all the way to topics like societal class,transgender, polyamourous, race. i appreciate the various voices of bisexuality+ in queer spaces. Overall, this is a good read for people who want insight into bisexuality in the lgbt+

[Coby Friesen · Rating 3 out of 5]

So thankful this exists. Not every essay was for me…which was kind of the point…but I’m glad to have been opened up to all the Ivtersectionalities that bisexuality brings…because after all, isn’t bisexuality inherently intersectional? And then there were a few that REALLY spoke me. All in all, good book, but perhaps what I was desiring was an anthology of bisexual FICTION, rather than non-fiction.

[Kay Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the top complaints in bisexual communities is how often we're erased from public view. We either don't exist or we're seen as cowards or shadows for not "picking a side". In "It Ain't Over Til the Bisexual Speaks" we get a chance to share our many voices and realities. We're not all the same but we definitely exist. Thanks for sharing some of our vivid diversity.

[sunnoah · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a bisexual person, i enjoy to read more about different views and thoughts. It’s good to see representation.

Got an arc on netgalley

[Deanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

this anthology is a rich exploration of diversity in bisexuality & intersectionality. each essay brings a different enlightening perspective. such important work. i love!!!

[Neil · Rating 4 out of 5]

A useful and interesting collection if short essays on bisexuality. There are topics for everyone in what is the largest community but likely the least represented in LBGTQ spaces.

[Ailey | Bisexual Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 4.5 stars rounded up.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!

In the vibrant landscape of contemporary literature, "It Ain't Over Til the Bisexual Speaks: An Anthology of Bisexual Voices," edited by Vaneet Mehta and Lois Shearing, stands as a resounding testament to the power of diverse representation and solidarity in the face of oppression. This anthology, comprising fifteen essays by bisexual activists, theorists, and writers, offers a poignant exploration of the multifaceted experiences of bisexual individuals, challenging stereotypes and advocating for visibility and equity.

From the outset, the anthology boldly confronts bi-erasure, amplifying voices from marginalized communities, including BIPOC, autistic, disabled, polyamorous, transgender, and gender nonconforming individuals. Through a lens of intersectionality, the collection celebrates the fluidity inherent in bisexuality, rejecting monolithic definitions and embracing plurality while also offering a platform for some of the most marginalized voices among us.

Central to the anthology's narrative is the intersectional analysis of bisexuality with other gender and sexual identities, challenging colonial capitalism, heteronormativity, and class-based stereotypes. The essays delve into the complexities of identity, highlighting the profound impact of body politics and disability justice on societal perceptions.

Throughout the collection, themes of anti-monosexism, anti-heteronormativity, and anti-purity culture emerge, fostering discourse about corrective rape, the myth of straight passing, and the Gender Critical Movement. The anthology also addresses the stigma surrounding bisexuality in the context of the AIDS epidemic, emphasizing the importance of queer eldership and solidarity in the face of adversity. Tangible activism and organizing strategies also permeate the essays, with mutual aid emerging as a liberatory practice in many of the pieces.

Among the standout essays, "Bodies of Knowledge: Bisexual Men and Sexual Violence" by Tanaka Mhishi poignantly addresses antimisogyny within queer communities, while Heron Greenesmith's "What If We Weren’t Born That Way?" challenges notions of sexual and gender identity immutability. In addition, Ourania Vamvaka-Tatsi's "A Quick Guide to the Experiences of Arrival and Settlement of LGBTQ+ Forced Migrants in the UK" sheds light on the increased bi-erasure faced by bisexual BIPOC individuals under white supremacy.

However, the pinnacle of the anthology lies in Shiri Eisner's "Why I Call Myself an Anarchabisexual," where the intersections of feminism, anarchy, and queer activism converge. Eisner's eloquent prose dismantles notions of assimilation, advocating for radical kinship and relationality. The essay’s impassioned call to arms against assimilation and the heteronormative status quo is both radical and inspiring. By embracing their identity as a bisexual, genderqueer, disabled activist, Eisner invites readers to envision a world where queerness isn't merely tolerated but celebrated for its subversive potential.

In conclusion, "It Ain't Over Til the Bisexual Speaks" transcends the boundaries of traditional anthologies, offering a profound exploration of bisexual experiences through a lens of intersectionality and collective liberation. As a reviewer, I found the anthology to be a revelatory journey, illuminating the complexities of bisexuality with nuance and empathy. While each essay presents a unique perspective, the overarching themes of resilience, activism, and community resonate deeply, making "It Ain't Over Til the Bisexual Speaks" a must-read for anyone interested in social justice and LGBTQ+ advocacy.

📖 Recommended For: Advocates of LGBTQ+ Rights, Intersectional Feminists, Readers Exploring Bisexual Experiences, Bisexual People Everywhere.

🔑 Key Themes: Bisexual Visibility, Intersectionality, Collective Liberation, Anti-Biphobia, Solidarity, Disability Justice, Sexual Fluidity.

Content / Trigger Warnings: Racism (minor), sexual harrassment (severe), sexual content (minor), homophobia (moderate), alcohol (minor), biphobia (moderate), suicide attempt (minor), transphobia (minor).

[Mandi · Rating 4 out of 5]

[Disclaimer: I received a free e-copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest & unbiased review.]

I really liked this anthology. I mean, as can be expected with any collection, there were some essays that I enjoyed more than others… but overall, It Ain’t Over Til the Bisexual Speaks is quite strong as a whole. Stronger than a lot of other anthologies that I have read.

One of the joys of this book is that it offers a little bit of everything related to the bi experience. There’s a lot of history, including the identification of early bisexual texts, the origin of m-spec terms, and the true meaning behind the bisexual flag colors. There’s a lot of semantic discussion surrounding the term “bisexual” itself. And, unfortunately, there are several examples of bi erasure, bi denial, and bi stigma. Even as an m-spec individual, many of these stories were eye-opening… especially those related to the denial that my sexuality is even possible. (Because spectrums and fluidity are very scary for society.)

And that brings me to another point that I really enjoyed: There were A LOT of connections drawn between the bisexual and the transgender communities - and not just the fact that many individuals hold both identities. Many of the authors discussed the breakdown of binaries, and explored this as one reason behind the rising political hatred that we are seeing. (If not everything is black & white, and we are therefore not easily identified, then ANYONE could be Queer. *gasp*)

But aside from the intersection between transness and bisexuality, this anthology also does a fantastic job of exploring the intersections of other identities & important topics: fatness, disability, classism, forced migration. All of the authors really did a fantastic job of examining oppression from multiple directions. This is a book about bisexuality — but certainly not ONLY bisexuality.

If you’re looking for an intersectional & politically Queer book to add to your bisexual library (including a story of someone creating exactly that), then I definitely think you’ll enjoy It Ain’t Over Til the Bisexual Speaks.

[Jens · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an anthology with a plurality of voices, in the true sense of the meaning of "bi", as the editors pointed out in the introduction. It is about many topics and problems, as bi history, biphobia, people, books. Also about organizing and making things better. About bodies, sex, violence.

In summary, the essays in this book are informative, diverse, thought-provoking, well-chosen, and often personal and relatable. Being not part of this facet of the spectrum, I learned a lot. There are as many voices, angles, experiences, and views as there are bisexual people, or better, people in general. On a more personal note, this book spoke in particular to me since reading it coincided to a close family member spelling out for me that they are the "B" in LGBTQ+, heart-warming!

Everybody should browse this book and find at least one essay to learn something new from!

(Based on an ARC from NetGalley)

[Matt Chlebda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Overall, a fantastic anthology of voices in the bi community. You will get personal accounts mixed in with educational, academic content- all of the pieces in here are well worth reading, regardless if you are in the bisexual (or one of the other bi microlabels) community, an ally, or simply want to know more about what people who are attracted to multiple genders experience. I like that the editors are continuing the mission that previous editors and researchers of the bisexual lived experience have done with other books like Bi Any Other Name, Getting Bi, and Recognize: The Voices of Bisexual Men. All of these books have done wonderful works in making our bi community more seen and our voices heard and recognized. A pretty great work of non-fiction and bi visibility, this bi reader loved it (mainly because he probably admits he has a bias for books like this).

[B.S. Casey · Rating 4 out of 5]

An ambitious and sweeping anthology that tries to capture the sheer complexity and diversity of the bisexual experience in essays from many authors with their stories and voices.

Each essay offers a new perspective and focuses on an intersectional element of bisexuality — how experiences change based on sex, gender, race, disability, nationality, body shape and the many different facets that form our identities. It takes apart how bisexuality has been misrepresented, erased and demonised over time and the struggles still being faced today.

An amazing collection of queer voices that deserve to be heard - whether you’re looking to understand and educate yourself or find some connection with yourself I’d recommend adding this to your bookshelves.

[Jasmine Shouse · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

This collection of essays dove into the topic of bisexuality, not just of biphobia and bi-erasure, but also intersectionality of class, race, religion, fatness, transgender, and polyamory. I learned a few new terms while appreciating the different perspectives of bi intersectionality in the UK. I recommend this to anyone who wants to know more about the visibility of bisexuality in queer spaces in different ways.

Thanks so much to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review.

[QueenDee · Rating 4 out of 5]

#NetGalley #ItAintOverTiltheBisexualSpeaks
I was allowed to read this book early in exchange for my honest review. As a Bisexual woman, I relate to alot of what the authors felt with topics such as biphobia, bi-erasure, all the way to topics like societal class,transgender, polyamourous, race. i appreciate the various voices of bisexuality+ in queer spaces. Overall, this is a good read for people who want insight into bisexuality in the lgbt+

[Christine LaBatt · Rating 4 out of 5]

An anthology of essays by bisexual voices from the UK and US (primarily). This anthology had a great variety of voices and perspectives. The one thing for me personally was that I live in the US and most chapters were very UK specific, especially with laws and things there, that did not make as much sense to me.

I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

[RecycledWords · Rating 3 out of 5]

It Ain't Over Til the Bisexual Speaks is a thoughtfully put together selection of essays on the bisexuality and the struggles for recognition and representation both within society as a whole but also within the LGBTQIA+ community. I am not well versed on the history of bisexuality and have noticed that many books about the queer community either gloss over bisexuality with a fleeting mention or pretty much ignore it so I was intrigued to read more and get an insight into the unique experience and struggles this section of the community faces.

What I was not expecting was how eloquently intersectionality was woven into each and every one of these essays. The majority of the essays cited numerous studies to back up their assertions and it was such an eye opener that I have been inspired to look up some of the suggested further reading.

There were, however, parts of this book that I found a bit harder to connect with, either because the writing style just wasn't to my taste or because the essay was a bit too fact heavy and I struggled to see the point the writer was trying to make.

I received a free ARC of this book via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.