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Young Queer America: Real Stories and Faces of LGBTQ+ Youth
Get to know real queer kids from all over the country—these inspiring stories of LGBTQ+ youth, written in their own words, provide crucial snapshots of what it's really like to grow up trans or queer in America.
Photographer and activist Maxwell Poth has traveled all over the United States, inviting LGBTQ+ youth to share their stories as part of Project Contrast, a nonprofit that amplifies these voices and connects kids and families with the resources they need to survive and thrive.
This book collects the stories and portraits of seventy-three queer kids and teenagers from fifteen different states. In their own words, these young people share the challenges they've faced coming out or coming to terms with their own identities; they write about their families, their schoolmates, their teachers, and the queer community they've found throughout their journeys; and they offer messages of love and support to their LGBTQ+ peers. Featuring a foreword by trans actress and model Isis King, this book sends a powerful message to the many LGBTQ+ kids growing up in small towns who feel We see you, we love you, you are not alone.
THESE STORIES ARE Across the United States, a wave of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation is targeting queer and transgender youth. These stories will not only help queer and trans kids everywhere feel seen and connected to one another, they will shine a much-needed light on the challenges and realities of growing up queer in America. From stories of kids surviving on their own after coming out to close-minded families, to examples of supportive parents who encourage their kids to be proud of who they are, these narratives demonstrate that growing up queer or trans in America is difficult and complicated and normal . This book is a powerful reminder that no matter what your path looks like, you deserve love.
IN THEIR OWN In this groundbreaking book, LGBTQ+ kids and teens tell their stories in their own words. The submissions that Poth and his Project Contrast team have collected are honest, articulate, and uplifting—these kids deserve to be taken seriously, and this project has given them a platform to share their truth with the world.
A PASSIONATE Author and photographer Maxwell Poth has been working with LGBTQ+ kids all over the United States since 2017. He started his nonprofit, Project Contrast, to amplify the stories of queer youth and connect them with the community and resources they need to thrive, no matter where they are in the country. His work highlights the unique mental health challenges facing queer and trans young adults, and demands that we stop turning a blind eye to the harm that is caused when we single out those who are different instead of embracing and uplifting them.
Perfect
Photographer and activist Maxwell Poth has traveled all over the United States, inviting LGBTQ+ youth to share their stories as part of Project Contrast, a nonprofit that amplifies these voices and connects kids and families with the resources they need to survive and thrive.
This book collects the stories and portraits of seventy-three queer kids and teenagers from fifteen different states. In their own words, these young people share the challenges they've faced coming out or coming to terms with their own identities; they write about their families, their schoolmates, their teachers, and the queer community they've found throughout their journeys; and they offer messages of love and support to their LGBTQ+ peers. Featuring a foreword by trans actress and model Isis King, this book sends a powerful message to the many LGBTQ+ kids growing up in small towns who feel We see you, we love you, you are not alone.
THESE STORIES ARE Across the United States, a wave of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation is targeting queer and transgender youth. These stories will not only help queer and trans kids everywhere feel seen and connected to one another, they will shine a much-needed light on the challenges and realities of growing up queer in America. From stories of kids surviving on their own after coming out to close-minded families, to examples of supportive parents who encourage their kids to be proud of who they are, these narratives demonstrate that growing up queer or trans in America is difficult and complicated and normal . This book is a powerful reminder that no matter what your path looks like, you deserve love.
IN THEIR OWN In this groundbreaking book, LGBTQ+ kids and teens tell their stories in their own words. The submissions that Poth and his Project Contrast team have collected are honest, articulate, and uplifting—these kids deserve to be taken seriously, and this project has given them a platform to share their truth with the world.
A PASSIONATE Author and photographer Maxwell Poth has been working with LGBTQ+ kids all over the United States since 2017. He started his nonprofit, Project Contrast, to amplify the stories of queer youth and connect them with the community and resources they need to thrive, no matter where they are in the country. His work highlights the unique mental health challenges facing queer and trans young adults, and demands that we stop turning a blind eye to the harm that is caused when we single out those who are different instead of embracing and uplifting them.
Perfect
288 pages, Paperback
Published May 2, 2023
9 people are currently reading
2230 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
May 2, 2023
Young Queer America could not have been released at a more important time. With legislation constantly being released in our country to silence and hide queer children, getting their stories out in the world and heard by as many people as possible is so important.
The photographs and stories are so well shared and really touch you in such a special way. Maxwell Poth should be insanely proud of the work he put into this project and the platform he’s giving these kids. They are our future and we owe them a safe place to grow and flourish as their authentic selves.
10/10, cannot recommend enough!!!!
The photographs and stories are so well shared and really touch you in such a special way. Maxwell Poth should be insanely proud of the work he put into this project and the platform he’s giving these kids. They are our future and we owe them a safe place to grow and flourish as their authentic selves.
10/10, cannot recommend enough!!!!
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December 6, 2023This is such an important and educational read, as compiled stories from such multilayered, diverse, and authentic young people who are just finding their way in the world, are actually fewer than I initially thought. The real reason this isn’t five stars is bc the stories weren’t their own chapters and it made it feel longer than it was, and it was long.
I think the authors and Poth did an amazing job showing as many perspectives and experiences both common and uncommon, that young queer people can identify with and find support through.
The TWs before each story helped a lot, as there were definitely parts where I needed to take breaks or skip around.
As an adult queer person, it was really wonderful to see just how far we’ve come as a community, but also seeing what we need to continue to work toward.
The addition of resources was expected but still made me emotional, bc there’s so much support out there but the awareness and access is what’s lacking.
Anyway, I’m so grateful to have read this and I can’t recommend it enough.
I think the authors and Poth did an amazing job showing as many perspectives and experiences both common and uncommon, that young queer people can identify with and find support through.
The TWs before each story helped a lot, as there were definitely parts where I needed to take breaks or skip around.
As an adult queer person, it was really wonderful to see just how far we’ve come as a community, but also seeing what we need to continue to work toward.
The addition of resources was expected but still made me emotional, bc there’s so much support out there but the awareness and access is what’s lacking.
Anyway, I’m so grateful to have read this and I can’t recommend it enough.
July 19, 2023
I want to thank Chronicle Books and NetGalley for allowing me to read this book and leave a review!
A beautiful book compiled of the photos and stories of various LGBTQ+ teens throughout the United States of America. There is a wide variety of stories from teens of all ages, sexuality, gender identity, religion, nationality, and locations telling the reader about their life. Maxwell does a great job of highlighting each teens voice, and story and framing them in a very respectful light. All of these stories range in emotion from happy, to sad, to hopeful, and everything in between leaving the reader with much to think about and to reflect on.
Real Stories and Faces of LGBTQ+ Youth can truly teach other teens about the various types of people that live within the queer community of America.
A beautiful book compiled of the photos and stories of various LGBTQ+ teens throughout the United States of America. There is a wide variety of stories from teens of all ages, sexuality, gender identity, religion, nationality, and locations telling the reader about their life. Maxwell does a great job of highlighting each teens voice, and story and framing them in a very respectful light. All of these stories range in emotion from happy, to sad, to hopeful, and everything in between leaving the reader with much to think about and to reflect on.
Real Stories and Faces of LGBTQ+ Youth can truly teach other teens about the various types of people that live within the queer community of America.
December 31, 2023
Thank you Goodreads for the free copy of "Young Queer America." The stories each of the young people shared are sometimes happy, sometimes sad - they are heartbreaking, they are beautiful. They are important. Thank you for sharing your stories with the world.
July 26, 2023
I can’t say I read all of this, but I’m grateful that my son bought this powerful book for our coffee table collection. I will refer to it often. Beautiful photos and story after story of queer young people whose stories are so important.
June 7, 2023
Thank you to Chronicle Books and Goodreads for the Kindle edition!
I am in tears over this book. As a 25yo agender aromantic asexual who grew up in the 2000's and early 2010's, with all that that entails, it was incredible to read all of these amazing young people's stories, and how even through so much hardship, they are loving themselves, loving each other, and fighting for their rights. I am so immensely proud of queer youths for being the absolute champions of the queer community, with all their grace and understanding. Protect Queer Kids, and please share this book far and wide!
I am in tears over this book. As a 25yo agender aromantic asexual who grew up in the 2000's and early 2010's, with all that that entails, it was incredible to read all of these amazing young people's stories, and how even through so much hardship, they are loving themselves, loving each other, and fighting for their rights. I am so immensely proud of queer youths for being the absolute champions of the queer community, with all their grace and understanding. Protect Queer Kids, and please share this book far and wide!
May 23, 2023
Young Queer America: Real Stories and Faces of LGBTQ+ Youth by Maxwell Poth
Published May 2, 2023
<3 This was one raw and heart wrenching read! These #schoolOfficials. #schoolBullies, parents, guardians, clergy, religious fanatics, one day a week Christians, #therapists #medicalDoctors mentioned by the children in these essays seriously need a #flogging, #azzwhopping, #psychotherapy #asylumStay and or a prison sentence for their heinous comments and acts. The verbal abuse especially was triggering AF! What brave souls to share their stories, pictures encouragement, experience, strength and hope. <3
#LGBTQ+ #TransGender #TwoSpirit #MentalHealth #SelfHarm #BodyDisphoria #nonBinary #CPTSD #TREVORproject #ConversionTherapy #ProNouns #Gender #Sexuality #SuicidalIdeation #Homeless #Rape #SexualAbuse #QueerFolks #ChosenFamily #SupportGroups #ReAssignmentSurgery #HormoneTherapy
Get to know real queer kids from all over the country—these inspiring stories of LGBTQ+ youth, written in their own words, provide crucial snapshots of what it's really like to grow up trans or queer in America.
Photographer and activist Maxwell Poth has traveled all over the United States, inviting LGBTQ+ youth to share their stories as part of Project Contrast, a nonprofit that amplifies these voices and connects kids and families with the resources they need to survive and thrive.
This book collects the stories and portraits of seventy-three queer kids and teenagers from fifteen different states. In their own words, these young people share the challenges they've faced coming out or coming to terms with their own identities; they write about their families, their schoolmates, their teachers, and the queer community they've found throughout their journeys; and they offer messages of love and support to their LGBTQ+ peers. Featuring a foreword by trans actress and model Isis King, this book sends a powerful message to the many LGBTQ+ kids growing up in small towns who feel isolated: We see you, we love you, you are not alone.
THESE STORIES ARE VITAL: Across the United States, a wave of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation is targeting queer and transgender youth. These stories will not only help queer and trans kids everywhere feel seen and connected to one another, they will shine a much-needed light on the challenges and realities of growing up queer in America. From stories of kids surviving on their own after coming out to close-minded families, to examples of supportive parents who encourage their kids to be proud of who they are, these narratives demonstrate that growing up queer or trans in America is difficult and complicated and normal. This book is a powerful reminder that no matter what your path looks like, you deserve love.
IN THEIR OWN WORDS: In this groundbreaking book, LGBTQ+ kids and teens tell their stories in their own words. The submissions that Poth and his Project Contrast team have collected are honest, articulate, and uplifting—these kids deserve to be taken seriously, and this project has given them a platform to share their truth with the world.
A PASSIONATE ADVOCATE: Author and photographer Maxwell Poth has been working with LGBTQ+ kids all over the United States since 2017. He started his nonprofit, Project Contrast, to amplify the stories of queer youth and connect them with the community and resources they need to thrive, no matter where they are in the country. His work highlights the unique mental health challenges facing queer and trans young adults, and demands that we stop turning a blind eye to the harm that is caused when we single out those who are different instead of embracing and uplifting them.
Perfect for:
Queer and trans kids and teens who want to see their experiences reflected in print
Parents and family members of LGBTQ+ youth who want to show support or learn more about their loved one's experiences
Allies who are inspired by the book's mission and content
Anyone interested in understanding the next generation of queer Americans
Published May 2, 2023
<3 This was one raw and heart wrenching read! These #schoolOfficials. #schoolBullies, parents, guardians, clergy, religious fanatics, one day a week Christians, #therapists #medicalDoctors mentioned by the children in these essays seriously need a #flogging, #azzwhopping, #psychotherapy #asylumStay and or a prison sentence for their heinous comments and acts. The verbal abuse especially was triggering AF! What brave souls to share their stories, pictures encouragement, experience, strength and hope. <3
#LGBTQ+ #TransGender #TwoSpirit #MentalHealth #SelfHarm #BodyDisphoria #nonBinary #CPTSD #TREVORproject #ConversionTherapy #ProNouns #Gender #Sexuality #SuicidalIdeation #Homeless #Rape #SexualAbuse #QueerFolks #ChosenFamily #SupportGroups #ReAssignmentSurgery #HormoneTherapy
Get to know real queer kids from all over the country—these inspiring stories of LGBTQ+ youth, written in their own words, provide crucial snapshots of what it's really like to grow up trans or queer in America.
Photographer and activist Maxwell Poth has traveled all over the United States, inviting LGBTQ+ youth to share their stories as part of Project Contrast, a nonprofit that amplifies these voices and connects kids and families with the resources they need to survive and thrive.
This book collects the stories and portraits of seventy-three queer kids and teenagers from fifteen different states. In their own words, these young people share the challenges they've faced coming out or coming to terms with their own identities; they write about their families, their schoolmates, their teachers, and the queer community they've found throughout their journeys; and they offer messages of love and support to their LGBTQ+ peers. Featuring a foreword by trans actress and model Isis King, this book sends a powerful message to the many LGBTQ+ kids growing up in small towns who feel isolated: We see you, we love you, you are not alone.
THESE STORIES ARE VITAL: Across the United States, a wave of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation is targeting queer and transgender youth. These stories will not only help queer and trans kids everywhere feel seen and connected to one another, they will shine a much-needed light on the challenges and realities of growing up queer in America. From stories of kids surviving on their own after coming out to close-minded families, to examples of supportive parents who encourage their kids to be proud of who they are, these narratives demonstrate that growing up queer or trans in America is difficult and complicated and normal. This book is a powerful reminder that no matter what your path looks like, you deserve love.
IN THEIR OWN WORDS: In this groundbreaking book, LGBTQ+ kids and teens tell their stories in their own words. The submissions that Poth and his Project Contrast team have collected are honest, articulate, and uplifting—these kids deserve to be taken seriously, and this project has given them a platform to share their truth with the world.
A PASSIONATE ADVOCATE: Author and photographer Maxwell Poth has been working with LGBTQ+ kids all over the United States since 2017. He started his nonprofit, Project Contrast, to amplify the stories of queer youth and connect them with the community and resources they need to thrive, no matter where they are in the country. His work highlights the unique mental health challenges facing queer and trans young adults, and demands that we stop turning a blind eye to the harm that is caused when we single out those who are different instead of embracing and uplifting them.
Perfect for:
Queer and trans kids and teens who want to see their experiences reflected in print
Parents and family members of LGBTQ+ youth who want to show support or learn more about their loved one's experiences
Allies who are inspired by the book's mission and content
Anyone interested in understanding the next generation of queer Americans
October 8, 2023
I loved this book. As a queer teenager in the United States, it was very meaningful to me to see other young LGBTQIA+ people in particular in red states or at least red areas. The things I really liked about this book:
1. DIVERSITY
There are people who say that now everyone is just looking for diversity. It's not a bad thing to have diversity, though, as it adds different viewpoints and experiences to a community. There were gay, trans, nonbinary, bisexual, pansexual, two-spirit, genderfluid, agender, asexual (and more) people. There were also people who are Black, Native, Asian, and white. I found people like me. That makes me very happy and included.
2. STORIES
Were the stories sometimes very similar? Maybe very often similar? Yes, it's true, they were sometimes similar. However, that doesn't mean they weren't good as they were. They were very encouraging. They share why it's hard to be LGBTQIA+, but they also shared why it's amazing for them. They shared their struggles and also their joys. Again, I didn't feel alone or like an outsider reading this book.
3. PICTURES
I don't always like books that include a picture with every writing. But this one I did. There was a picture or two of each teen/child in Young Queer America. Oftentimes they were smiling, but some weren't as much. They are all bright and joyful. That means a lot more to me and probably to other LGBTQIA teens than some may think it would.
4. PRONOUNS
Ah, the thing people don't seem to be able to have a reasonable, meaningful conversation about. Pronouns. Before each story, there is a subheading under the person's name that tells the age, pronouns, and state of each teen or child. And the pronouns are diverse: she/her, he/him, they/them, it/its, ze/hir, and any other mix of pronouns. I don't always see people who use multiple pronouns and this book showed them.
5. CONTENT WARNINGS
There were content warnings in front of each story that needed a warning. For example, a story might say that there is "mention of self-harm" or "mention of rape". That is very important. I know this as a person who can be triggered by certain things: books should be safe places. If someone doesn't want to read about something, it can be very helpful to have a content warning to avoid it. Would I stop reading something that triggers me? No, but at least I'm forewarned!
QUOTES
Addison (she/her), 14: "To anyone reading this who is having trouble being confident in their identity, your community will stand by you when you need it, and you are who you are."
Anavera (she/her), 14: "You don't need to be fixed because you're not broken. And if no one else wants to admit that you're an amazing and wonderful human being, I will, because I think you're awesome."
Atlas (he/him), 17: "It does get better, and I want to be the kind of change I believe kids like me need in this world."
Bex (they/them), 14: "If someone calls you out and says, ‘You shouldn't be wearing that’, remember how you look, what you wear, and what you do are YOUR choices. So just don't give a crap and be happy with yourself."
Cecil (he/they), 16: "It is a tough fight, and I lot of people will never understand what you are going through; people over time will get more accepting; you are stronger than you think; there are people … who will help lead you through your journey; this journey is long but you gotta stick through it; and finally, I am so proud of you."
Clay (they/he), 14: "This isn't new, it's just breaking the binaries. What binary are you going to break today?"
Ender (rot/it), 18: "Not everyone is going to accept you and that is okay. The most important thing is that you accept yourself."
CONCLUSION
This was an encouraging book for me as a queer teenager. Please offer this to any LGBTQIA young person you have in your life. I think they will thank you.
- Echo (they/them) ⚧️
1. DIVERSITY
There are people who say that now everyone is just looking for diversity. It's not a bad thing to have diversity, though, as it adds different viewpoints and experiences to a community. There were gay, trans, nonbinary, bisexual, pansexual, two-spirit, genderfluid, agender, asexual (and more) people. There were also people who are Black, Native, Asian, and white. I found people like me. That makes me very happy and included.
2. STORIES
Were the stories sometimes very similar? Maybe very often similar? Yes, it's true, they were sometimes similar. However, that doesn't mean they weren't good as they were. They were very encouraging. They share why it's hard to be LGBTQIA+, but they also shared why it's amazing for them. They shared their struggles and also their joys. Again, I didn't feel alone or like an outsider reading this book.
3. PICTURES
I don't always like books that include a picture with every writing. But this one I did. There was a picture or two of each teen/child in Young Queer America. Oftentimes they were smiling, but some weren't as much. They are all bright and joyful. That means a lot more to me and probably to other LGBTQIA teens than some may think it would.
4. PRONOUNS
Ah, the thing people don't seem to be able to have a reasonable, meaningful conversation about. Pronouns. Before each story, there is a subheading under the person's name that tells the age, pronouns, and state of each teen or child. And the pronouns are diverse: she/her, he/him, they/them, it/its, ze/hir, and any other mix of pronouns. I don't always see people who use multiple pronouns and this book showed them.
5. CONTENT WARNINGS
There were content warnings in front of each story that needed a warning. For example, a story might say that there is "mention of self-harm" or "mention of rape". That is very important. I know this as a person who can be triggered by certain things: books should be safe places. If someone doesn't want to read about something, it can be very helpful to have a content warning to avoid it. Would I stop reading something that triggers me? No, but at least I'm forewarned!
QUOTES
Addison (she/her), 14: "To anyone reading this who is having trouble being confident in their identity, your community will stand by you when you need it, and you are who you are."
Anavera (she/her), 14: "You don't need to be fixed because you're not broken. And if no one else wants to admit that you're an amazing and wonderful human being, I will, because I think you're awesome."
Atlas (he/him), 17: "It does get better, and I want to be the kind of change I believe kids like me need in this world."
Bex (they/them), 14: "If someone calls you out and says, ‘You shouldn't be wearing that’, remember how you look, what you wear, and what you do are YOUR choices. So just don't give a crap and be happy with yourself."
Cecil (he/they), 16: "It is a tough fight, and I lot of people will never understand what you are going through; people over time will get more accepting; you are stronger than you think; there are people … who will help lead you through your journey; this journey is long but you gotta stick through it; and finally, I am so proud of you."
Clay (they/he), 14: "This isn't new, it's just breaking the binaries. What binary are you going to break today?"
Ender (rot/it), 18: "Not everyone is going to accept you and that is okay. The most important thing is that you accept yourself."
CONCLUSION
This was an encouraging book for me as a queer teenager. Please offer this to any LGBTQIA young person you have in your life. I think they will thank you.
- Echo (they/them) ⚧️
January 2, 2023
This book, Young Queer America: Real Stories and Faces of LGBTQ+ Youth, which was put together by Maxwell Poth, is a beautiful collection of stories of youth coping and living with being in the LGBTQ+ community. Not only does it take enormous courage to share their stories, but I personally loved the photos of each of the youth. It’s one thing to read their stories but it’s another thing to put a face to each story. I have never seen a collection of stories include photos of each of the authors, but the photographs really helped me see how truly beautiful they each are.
Before reading this book, my only exposure to transgender teenagers was watching Jazz Jennings on TV. It was truly amazing reading about all of the youth in this book. Their stories were all unique, but there also were many similarities. Being a teenager in the queer community is not easy. Many were abused. Many were shunned. Many were misunderstood. However, all of them have overcome many challenges. All of them deserve to be proud of themselves.
One of the things I loved most about this book was that towards the end of each story, the youth wrote their “advice” to other teens in the LGBTQ+ community. One does not necessarily have to be in the community to learn that we all deserve dignity and respect AND that we are all beautiful AND that we all deserve to be loved.
I loved this book from the beginning and my wish is that somehow, when the time is right, this book is made into mandatory reading for kids in middle schools and high schools. This book has the potential to change and transform so many lives across the country and around the world.
Lastly, I want to say that my other wish is that there is another version of this book, but written by parents of youth in the LGBTQ+ community. The parents need to know that THEY, too, are not alone. Parents need to know that there are other parents out there struggling to help their children and youth come to terms with their identity and being their authentic selves.
I would give this book a 10 out of 5 stars if I could, but however, I have to give it 5 out of 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and Chronicle Books (publisher) for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Before reading this book, my only exposure to transgender teenagers was watching Jazz Jennings on TV. It was truly amazing reading about all of the youth in this book. Their stories were all unique, but there also were many similarities. Being a teenager in the queer community is not easy. Many were abused. Many were shunned. Many were misunderstood. However, all of them have overcome many challenges. All of them deserve to be proud of themselves.
One of the things I loved most about this book was that towards the end of each story, the youth wrote their “advice” to other teens in the LGBTQ+ community. One does not necessarily have to be in the community to learn that we all deserve dignity and respect AND that we are all beautiful AND that we all deserve to be loved.
I loved this book from the beginning and my wish is that somehow, when the time is right, this book is made into mandatory reading for kids in middle schools and high schools. This book has the potential to change and transform so many lives across the country and around the world.
Lastly, I want to say that my other wish is that there is another version of this book, but written by parents of youth in the LGBTQ+ community. The parents need to know that THEY, too, are not alone. Parents need to know that there are other parents out there struggling to help their children and youth come to terms with their identity and being their authentic selves.
I would give this book a 10 out of 5 stars if I could, but however, I have to give it 5 out of 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and Chronicle Books (publisher) for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 25, 2022
This is a fantastic collection of photos and stories from queer youth across America of varying states, ages, religious backgrounds, etc. I was a bit concerned going in that it would focus on the more stereotypical demographic of a queer person, but I was pleasantly surprised at the diversity.
The photographs were beautifully shot and showed off the comfort these kids had in their identities and joy at being able to show it off.
I loved the way the book was formatted, how we were presented with their stories first and then their photographs so the reader can't make any judgements based on how a person looks. I also really appreciated that content warnings were given at the start of each entry so the reader can decide if it's one they feel comfortable reading.
Thank you to NetGalley for making this available in exchange for an honest review!
The photographs were beautifully shot and showed off the comfort these kids had in their identities and joy at being able to show it off.
I loved the way the book was formatted, how we were presented with their stories first and then their photographs so the reader can't make any judgements based on how a person looks. I also really appreciated that content warnings were given at the start of each entry so the reader can decide if it's one they feel comfortable reading.
Thank you to NetGalley for making this available in exchange for an honest review!
April 5, 2023
I don't have to read this book to know how necessary it is to the future of our children's lives, whether they be part of the LGBTQ+ community or not.
there is something so fundamentally wrong with this country right now, laws and pressures and violence against ALL OUR CHILDREN, it is just a frightening time, full stop.
and since this type of book IS so necessary, and so many young people are in need of such positive feedback, I strongly suggest that this book become an annual edition to showcase all the stories that couldn't be used in this one.
yearly editions until they are NOT necessary any more.
and fyi, I definitely do want to read this book, just to put a bit more light into my heart ❤️ to block all the darkness trying to dig in all the time...
fingers crossed that I win a copy!!!
there is something so fundamentally wrong with this country right now, laws and pressures and violence against ALL OUR CHILDREN, it is just a frightening time, full stop.
and since this type of book IS so necessary, and so many young people are in need of such positive feedback, I strongly suggest that this book become an annual edition to showcase all the stories that couldn't be used in this one.
yearly editions until they are NOT necessary any more.
and fyi, I definitely do want to read this book, just to put a bit more light into my heart ❤️ to block all the darkness trying to dig in all the time...
fingers crossed that I win a copy!!!
June 28, 2023
This is the kind of book I wish I had had as a young queer teen.
There are so many stories and identities in the compilation, accompanied by wonderful portraits of each of the kids. This book is a great snapshot of some of the queer youth of today, that have shared their stories and their struggles.
I can imagine this being a resource for other queer kids to see themselves reflected in their peers, and to feel less isolated. There are some heavy topics that this collection touches on, and I was pleased to see content warnings at the beginning of certain stories. Though there is also a large amount of queer joy that is depicted in this collection as well.
Each "chapter" or personal story is a few pages, and I could see this being a good book to dip in and out of and come back to periodically. If there is a queer child and or teen in your life, I think that this would make a great gift.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me early access to a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
There are so many stories and identities in the compilation, accompanied by wonderful portraits of each of the kids. This book is a great snapshot of some of the queer youth of today, that have shared their stories and their struggles.
I can imagine this being a resource for other queer kids to see themselves reflected in their peers, and to feel less isolated. There are some heavy topics that this collection touches on, and I was pleased to see content warnings at the beginning of certain stories. Though there is also a large amount of queer joy that is depicted in this collection as well.
Each "chapter" or personal story is a few pages, and I could see this being a good book to dip in and out of and come back to periodically. If there is a queer child and or teen in your life, I think that this would make a great gift.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me early access to a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
June 18, 2023
Definitely appreciate the value this book will have on LGBTQIA+ teens who are struggling with identity and finding their community/voice. I enjoyed looking at the photos, but couldn't stay engaged with the multitude of one page stories stories written by teenagers. Felt like a teacher reading a bunch of student essays about the same topic. This may simply be because the book was written for a younger audience.
May 5, 2023
A beautiful testimony of young queer stories & the bravery it takes to share them, especially in todays world. Powerful stories and photos brought to light by the very talented Maxwell Poth - who has dedicated countless hours to making this project a reality. I truly hope that these stories will inspire hope and create change that we need within our community.
did-not-finish
May 14, 2025while the premise of sharing queer stories from young people is lovely, i hated actually reading it. i know that many of the writers are teenagers and are still taking introductory English and literature classes, but it was like pulling teeth for me. i hope all of the writers are loved and supported, but unfortunately, i just couldn’t continue.
May 9, 2023
I had the privilege of working with Maxwell on this book, and it was a joy and an honor from start to finish. I’m so grateful to the amazing young people who shared their stories. I can’t wait for you to meet them! ❤️
July 9, 2023
I loved seeing the diversity of the queer youth experience across the US. I was really pleasantly surprised by the amount of youth in this book that had had a good coming out experience with their families. It really gives me hope for the future.
October 20, 2023
It is too bad that we live in a country that thinks they know what is right for others.
These courageous young people will be our leaders, someday.
That is reassuring.
Thanks to Goodreads for the kindle copy.
These courageous young people will be our leaders, someday.
That is reassuring.
Thanks to Goodreads for the kindle copy.
December 3, 2023
These stories are told in honest voices that don't seem overedited, accompanied by beautiful photos. The cover especially is gorgeous. I can't say it does anything knew, but the highlighting of queer youth in places other than the big city is important and I believe it deserves a chance to shine.
Want to read
December 28, 2022I read the first handful of these and they're powerful stuff. A hand to hold for any queer kid feeling lonely.
on-hold
April 6, 2023I accessed a digital review copy of this book from the publisher.
June 25, 2023
This is such a powerful book! This should be required reading not only for students but for parents! Thank you to Goodreads for a Kindle copy of this book.
March 19, 2024
A Goodreads Giveaway!
Interesting book!
Interesting book!
January 11, 2023
This is a very powerful book showing what queer kids are dealing with all over the country. It is a must read for not only queer youth, but their parents as well as parents of non-queer children.
Thank you NetGalley for an advanced copy to review.
Thank you NetGalley for an advanced copy to review.
April 23, 2024
A Goodreads Giveaway!
Interesting stories, unfortunately I got a bit lost on all the other names these kids call themselves, which changes by the minute!
I feel some children are just too young to understand. It would have been good to have older people as well for a better perspective on the issues discussed!
Interesting stories, unfortunately I got a bit lost on all the other names these kids call themselves, which changes by the minute!
I feel some children are just too young to understand. It would have been good to have older people as well for a better perspective on the issues discussed!
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