Outrage: How To Fight for LGBTQ+ Lives

by Ellen Jones

'Queers, allies, you’d better pay attention, because Ellen Jones is impossible to ignore' - Sophie Duker

'This book may well save someone's life' - Robin Ince

Complete equality for LGBTQ+ people should be our benchmark. But despite massively increased visibility in mainstream life and culture, the queer community is facing unacceptable levels of prejudice and danger – from the rise in homophobic and transphobic violence to the rollback of hard-fought-for rights across the globe.

In this groundbreaking, compelling and immensely readable book, writer and activist Ellen Jones exposes the discrimination queer people continue to face in all areas of life, from marriage to mental health, education to ageing, religion to sport and much more.

In searing prose, punctuated with moving personal accounts, Jones sets out not only the issues but also practical actions that any of us can take to create a more equal society, and highlights the trailblazers whose amazing work is already changing the world.

Whether you are a member of the LGBTQ+ community, an ally, or simply care about human rights and equality, Outrage is essential, and illuminating, reading.

Genres: Nonfiction, LGBT, Queer, Adult, Feminism, Audiobook, Society

279 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 30, 2025

Reviews

[Ashli Hughes · Rating 4 out of 5]

thank you to the publisher and author for sending me a copy of this book to read and review, I really appreciate it.

as someone who is queer and autistic, finding a voice that represents that AND dives deeper into the wider community to research and talk about the impacts of being trans, bipoc, disabled and so much more?? It meant the world to me. It’s no surprise that the queer community has been under vicious attacks around the world, politically though legislation and also socially through the behaviour of others- but seeing it talked about in such a blunt, educational way really made it hit home. the author talks about things happening right here in the UK such as: housing discrimination, lack of legislative support to protect trans individuals from conversion therapy, lack of medical access for trans individuals, loneliness in elder queer people and so much more. but they go further than that, they discuss the status of LGBTQ rights across the globe, the terrifying situations faced by queer people who have been murdered, attacked, beaten and forced to flee their homes out of fear for their lives.

they take this very real and scary issues and give practical guidance and advice that day to day people can do to help support their queer friends and families, taking time to educate and explain the need for such actions and how even the smallest things can make the biggest impact.

[Wednesday Holmes · Rating 5 out of 5]

A powerful text that has so much potential to change lives. I love how this book can definitely be used to help people be better allies to LGBTQIA+ people on one level. It goes one step further than other similar texts because it feels human and relatable for queer readers. It feels like it was made for us.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly researched, this book not only outlines the discrimination faced by LGBTQ+ today but also vitally lets us know what we can all do to fight it. Immensely readable - I really enjoyed the case studies at the end of each chapter which highlighted the people who were working to make a difference.

[Jess Glaisher · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished this incredible, and necessary book. As a queer person, a lot of the information in it lives in my body and my bones, other parts of it are outside my experience. Each section addresses a key issue facing the LGBTQ+ community, interspersed with interviews and biographical anecdotes.

The UK, despite some positive steps in the past, continues to be hostile to a lot of people under the LGBTQ+ umbrella. This book is essential and timely, and accessible to people with a lot or little knowledge of the LBGTQ+ community.

You see, I, as a queer person, am not the target audience for this book. Jones herself says she wrote 'Outrage' for the 'compassionate middle for people who are allies to the broad and diverse LGBTQ+ community but have no idea how to help, to be active in the fight. If this is you, BUY A COPY NOW. ‘Outrage’ is full of vital information and practical steps, both large and small, you can take to support the LGBTQ+ community.

Seriously, buy a copy. Read it with your friends, discuss ways you can help. Lend your copy to other people who would benefit from reading it. It takes strength in numbers to make change, and willingness to do the ground work. Reading ‘Outrage’ would be a very good place to start.

[Eleanor Yates · Rating 5 out of 5]

Firstly, I want to start by stating how incredibly well researched and thorough this book is. It is a testament to Jones’ writing that she is able to weave the facts and figures so expertly into each chapter, whilst still making it feel like you’re having a chat with a mate!

Secondly, I think this is a really important read at this moment in time. The world has become a bit of a dystopian hellscape, and it helps to know some of the reasons why and what you can do about it (that was my fav bit of each chapter, see under ‘putting in the work’). It was strangely comforting to read about the history of LGBTQ+ rights around the world and to understand more about them in my own country too.

Thirdly, I commend Jones for taking on the mammoth task of creating a book such as this, it can’t have been easy to research, nor write. I found myself on the brink of tears so many times, just absorbing all the sections about all the loss and grief the LGBTQ+ community has suffered, and continues to suffer.

I am so glad I read ‘Outrage’ and would urge any curious young LGBTQ+ person, and straight allies to read this. Thank you Ellen Jones!

[Kate Henderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've followed Ellen Jones on youtube and instagram for many years and I've really enjoyed getting an insight into their LGBTQ+ journey.
I was super excited to read this book, and it definitely did not disappoint!!
I loved the way the book was sectioned off into different section - so you could dip in and out, and find the right parts for you - if you wanted to... but I pretty much read the book in one sitting.
I do not class myself as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, but I am definitely and proudly an ally!
This book has taught me so so much - I really liked the way Jones writes about her own life, as well as anecdotes from others. I really enjoyed her references to popular culture too. This really helped give the book some context.
I think this book should be in every school library! I think anyone and everyone would get a lot from this book, and I'm sure Ellen Jones words will reach out to others in the community and give a warm hug to those that are needing it.

A MUST READ for all!

[Laura Fleming (WhatLauraReads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow wow wow wow wow!

One of the most informative non-fiction books I have listened to regarding the fight for LGBTQ+ Rights offering such an inclusive view on this as well as offering clear ideas on how we can help the community. I have been introduced to so many incredible activists and I learnt so much from this book, even as someone who prides themselves in being up to date on all things LGBTQ+.

Just a special mention for the inclusion of ACE people in this book, something I haven’t seen a lot of and made me feel v seen 🩷

Feeling empowered to make change!

[Ella-Mae Campling · Rating 5 out of 5]

“This book is a light in the dark”
Finding a voice to represent yourself in history or literature is no easy feat when you're neurodivergent or LGBTQ+. Alas, it has become easier, especially with so many in the communities eager and willing to spread the word.
Dealing with the development and redundancies within the queer umbrella, Outrage is filled with an incredible pathos and determination. This book is a light in the dark. A must for anyone seeking to improve their understanding or allyship.

[Ben King · Rating 4 out of 5]

What I loved most about this book was the complete lack of filler. To the point, biting and damning in its indictment of those who have became complacent within the LGBTQ+ community. A great, informative read on the state of where we are at - and how much progress we still have to make. This book does an excellent job at how just living as a gay person, you face a lot more complexity in every area of life, from healthcare to housing, to aging and education.

The chapter on Sports and Refugees were a bit unbalanced in my opinion - I think these two points are more nuanced than the author was painting them out to be.

Learned some very interesting things which I will recount below!
- YouTube's algorithm 'learned' that LGBT content is hypersexual and began restricting videos that contained anything to do with LGBT folk, even when it was entirely appropriate for any audience
- While the fight for marriage equality was a landmark, heightened visibility also comes with heightened violence; since anti-LGBT groups lost this round, they then targeted trans people to still feel in control
- Eduction is truly the antidote to the poison that is bigotry, and it's appalling and worrisome that the States/U.K are actively working to rid all LGBT discourse from school curriculums

[ツツ]

I marked this as dnf bc there's a few chapters I didn't read. I've been terrible at keeping up with the news, and this book helps catching me up on issues concerning the lgbt community in recent years (2019~2023?).

I was surprised to learn that the statistics for non-binary ppl r the worst across the board, even worse than for tans ppl. I had assumed non-binary folks might have it easier, since there's seemingly fewer medical, financial, and legal hoops to jump than trans folks.

[cloe · Rating 2 out of 5]

actually dnf at 97% (ran out of Spotify listening hours) and don't care to actually finish it. this book had more outrageously bold claims than actual arguments, very little substance and a lot of gall.
you're not special just because you're gay. stfu.

[Leigh Loveridge · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic!!!! Educational, inspiring, action focused, celebratory and enlightening. An incredible read from a clearly passionate author with a huge knowledge and connection network.

[Lisa Cox · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read it!

[Anthony · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ellen Jones (2025) OUTRAGE (AUDIOBOOK)
Audible - Bluebird/Macmillan Publishers

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 out of 5 stars

Audible writes, "Despite being more visible in mainstream culture than ever before, LGBTQ+ people are facing unacceptable levels of prejudice and danger – from a marked increase in homophobic and transphobic violence, to the rollback of rights around the world. In this groundbreaking, compelling and essential book, author and activist Ellen Jones sets out exactly how LGBTQ+ people continue to face discrimination, looking at education, sports, religion, marriage, mental health and much more. In searing prose, punctuated with personal accounts from LGBTQ+ people from across the globe, Jones sets out not only the issues but also practical actions, both big and small, that all of us can take to help create a more equal society. What's more, she shines a spotlight on the amazing individuals already working hard to change things. Whether you are a member of the LGBTQ+ community, an ally, or simply care about human rights and equality, Outrage is essential, and illuminating, listening."
=====
Kind of hope-giving. Things are horrific. This is nothing short of being that metaphorical torch that could lead us out of an often pitch black tunnel. Everyone should read/listen to this!
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#EllenJones #Outrage #Book #Books #Read #Reads #Reading #Review #Reviews #BookReview #BookReviews #GoodReads #Audiobook #Audiobooks #Audible

[✨Ash✨ · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a hard review to write, and this book honestly explains why so well.

I'm a bisexual woman. Much of the content of this book reflects accurately to my experiences in the world. We clearly still have a long way to go before the LGBTQ+ community has full equality in the world.

So why the 3 stars? Being bisexual often means I'm not gay enough for gay people, or I'm too gay for straight people. I fall down the side of the sofa, so to speak. Many bi people are told they're just being greedy or we haven't made our minds up yet. Depictions of bisexual women are often sexualised or used as the 'token' diversity card.

I picked up this book expecting it to cover the entire spectrum of LGBTQ+, because that's how the title portrays it. But actually, (I found) there to be little inclusion of bisexuality, asexuality, pansexuality etc. It focussed very heavily on trans struggles. I am in no way saying that isn't important or shouldn't be told, I am simply saying I didn't get what I was expecting out of this, and it aligns to how I feel bisexuality is seen a lot of the time in the LGBTQ+ community.

It may well be my own expectations being wrong, and I don't think the content is bad. In fact, I learned a lot through this. I'm just a bit disappointed to not feel particularly included in a book talking about how to improve inclusion.

[Lizzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

𖤣𖥧.𖡼 "We are everywhere and always have been" 𖡼.𖤣𖥧

Outrage by Ellen Jones is the battle cry LGBTQ+ people have been waiting for - especially for our trans family, who have been failed in too many ways to count. It's a beautifully written, emotive book that took me several sittings to read - not because of any flaw, but because there was so much information to digest.

Topics discussed in the book includes: LGBTQ+ Healthcare, queer spaces, education, marriage, birth certificates and so much more than I can put in one post.

💡 For example, #DYK that having bottom surgery as FTM is a process that typically takes a year to complete over two (2) different surgeries? And did you know that process is instead taking UP TO TEN YEARS on the NHS?
I didn't until this book, and honestly, the outrage is real - not just at the NHS, but at myself for not knowing this information sooner. The silence in the media about some of these issues become glaringly obvious the deeper into this book that you go.

Thankfully, though, Jones has made sure that this read is not all despair. Each chapter ends with a list of achievable and attainable ways that we, the reader, can support the community and the issues raised. For someone like me, who can very easily be overwhelmed at the idea of finding the "right" starting point, this has helped enormously.

Throughout Outrage, Jones made sure to bring the receipts most people demand when we stand up for our community - all of which are sourced at the end of the book. But beyond that, she shed light to issues that (I'm embarrassed to say) had not yet even crossed my mind: such as the lack of LGBTQ+ support in care homes, or even designated spaces for residents to reside.

Overall, Outrage takes you on a journey that will leave you emotional, outraged, proud and - if you're anything like me - with a new appreciation for the Dandelion (my next tattoo inspo may have arrived...). I am proud to say that, above everything else, this book gave me confidence. While I've been out as a bi woman for years now, as an introvert who loathes the noise (and general stickiness) of clubs, this book allowed me to feel seen - and even gave me new ideas about other ways to engage with the community.

I know this won't be the last time I read this book, and I'm so excited for a re-read again soon! Outrage by Ellen Jones is out on 30th January, making it the perfect gift for LGBT History Month in Feb.

⚠️ TWs include discussion about homelessness, depression, suicide, religion, SA, homo/lesphobia and discussion about health/hospital procedures.

🎁 by @bookbreakuk. 4.75✨️s

[Olivia-Savannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

A nonfiction book about how we still have work to do for the LGBTQ+ community, queer history, where we are at now and what we can all do! And why we should all be outraged by the current backsliding.

The first half of the book covered a lot of info I already knew but I appreciate that not everyone will, so it's a good one for those starting on that self-education journey. And the second half taught me a lot! I really learned about the UK's laws and the current situation, as well as new to me history too.

I appreciate that this was very inclusive and made sure to include and acknowledge the intersectionality of the queer, disabled and POC communities.

I liked that each chapter ended in what we can do next and highlighted what some people are already doing too as motivation.

This does mention the US quite a bit (understandably), but it is mostly UK and internationally focused, which I value as someone based in the UK myself.

[Celeste · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the only negative reviews for this book is a woman telling the author to shut the fuck up because ‘being gay doesn’t make you special’ - which is incredible because it misses the point of the whole book. Being silenced for simply asking for equity is an experience plenty of queer people can relate to, in every generation, and I think Jones captures the need for those voices to be recognised.

Jones makes it clear at several points in the book that ‘Outrage’ is intended as an educational tool for family members of queer people and those who might not be as familiar with the struggles we’re facing today, but I think it could easily be just as helpful to queer people wanting to act more within their own community and further.

[Avalon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book in the hopes that it would help me do more, and be more, for my queer friends, family, community, and to gain a better understanding of current issues that may be talked about less frequently.

I would love if all Non-fiction books attempting to inform and embolden their audience like this, followed the format that Ellen Jones has used here. Alongside regular content, each chapter also contains:

✨ 'And What You Can Do About It' - A bullet point list of clear actions you can take in regards to the Chapter topic. These attempt to be country agnostic.
✨ 'Putting in the Work' - Highlighting public figures such as activists, influences, allies who are making doing work and making waves in areas directly related to the Chapter topic.

The Author also includes a bibliography for all the shocking facts provided. The bibliography does reference a lot of news articles, which then reference papers which themselves contain the source of the data, so it can be a bit convoluted when you dive into where the information comes from. But this also highlights again how difficult it is for the LGBTQ+ community with the lack of funding, care, and research being done to provide clear (or any) data on incredibly important issues affecting everything from Education, to ageing, to Mental Health. Without data, it is easy for a Government to pretend an issue does not exist - that is not to say that more data = more action, that's just not true we know that, but its hard to grapple the extent and full impact of inequality without having information to help know where and what to do next to even begin addressing issues and advocate effectively.

Yes the Author does provide a lot of UK & US specific information, but she also talks about global trends, shares accounts from Queer folk worldwide, and as mentioned, attempts to ensure actions in the 'And What You Can Do About It' are able to be applied globally, prompting you to find out more. For me being in a country that often looks to the UK government, this book had a lot of cross-over policy wise.

This book provided me with a lot of new information on the areas of discrimination faced, good actions I can take, plenty of rage and sadness, and overall reminded me that this is no time to be complacent.

For more information on LGBTQ+ rights globally, take a look at the following:
✨Equaldex
✨Rainbow Map (Europe focus)

[Flo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an important read AND astoundingly well researched, informed, and written?

Jones winds her own story of discovery, prejudice, and joy so seamlessly between each narrative that at times this felt like sitting down with an old friend info-dumping about the horrendous injustices of both past and present. As someone who's made the history and current campaign for LGBT+ equality such a focal point of my growth, I was still astounded at how much I learnt from this.

[Fair warning that the audiobook had an insanely loud 'ding' soundbite every time there's a bullet point and it sent me into fight-or-flight every chapter.]

[KA Vickers · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was incredibly informative and with the current state of the world I feel it's more important than ever to read a book like this one. The information was accessible and extremely up to date. Going into it I wasn't sure whether certain groups within the LGBTQIA+ community would be more highlighted than others and in certain chapters this was the case simply because for those it was more relevant to certain groups of people than others such as the gender affirming treatment.

I am reasonably well informed due to being involved within the community but there was a lot in here I either didn't know or only had a vague knowledge of. I'd happily have this on my shelf and encourage others to educate themselves on the issues as there are always misunderstandings and myths.

I feel that this book and others like it should be in every library and read multiple times to get a full understanding. The world and situations are ever changing but this gives so much detail on different issues that affect the community not just in the UK but globally.

[Ingrid · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book about LGBTQ+ community with sound facts, interesting stories and a clear sinplicity. I like that it gives a wider perspective on immigration and older queers too, which isn'toften talked about. I am glad for a book that doesn't shy away from and at the same time is sensitive towards the difficulties faced by queer people. It is geared towards the UK but also takes other examples. I just wish there were more tips for action outside of the UK because this was quite depressing.

[Seolhe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Comprehensive and well-researched, this book looks at the state of queer rights in the UK and the rest of the world, with topics ranging from healthcare and legal discrimination to reproductive rights and religion.

It's heavy on facts, while still mixing in personal anecdotes and real, lived experiences, as well as actionable steps the reader can take.

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I already knew most of the information contained in this book which probably means I am well educated in this area but I absolutely loved this book, the information it contains and the way it is presented. I recommend it to everyone who is interested in the subject

[Mandy Kneale · Rating 5 out of 5]

My heart is a little more open and I feel better educated! I will be making sure the next LGBTQIA+ book I read is by an author that is LGBTQIA+.

Thank you for making the effort to write this, Ellen!

[Elizabeth Stevenson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredibly informative & interesting. Has given me a wider insight into the current issues faced by the LGBTQ+ community. I love how it has information on how I can support these issues too

[Rhian Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

of course this book is vital and important because of what and who it represents and fights for, but big up also to the writing itself... it's superb.

[Doreen Kruse]

Dnf. The audiobook was just not right for me.

[Diana Willemsen]

Noodzakelijk leesmateriaal.

[Molly Hungate · Rating 4 out of 5]

it should have just focused on challenging the binary system put in place since it felt more about trans and nonbinary identities