Shelby CriswellReseñas

I like the art style and general story. I think that something that is always interesting which is gathering inspiration from queer people in history that could also be considered bad people too.

Pros: Covers actually new and less-known figures from queer history, instead of the same 5 people in every queer history/bio project. Nice art.

Cons: Kinda dry, tbh. Skims awkwardly over Little Ax Broadnax's domestic violence; Bad Gays should cover the guy, since he's fascinating and definitely more complicated than Criswell is willing to get into.

An excellent introduction to some lesser-known figures in LGBT history. It is so important to share the stories of those who came before us and to keep their memories alive, especially when people try to claim that queer identities are just a passing trend. As this book demonstrates, we have always been here! The book doesn't go into a whole lot of depth about each person, but it is a great jumping-off point and there is a whole section in the back with resources to learn more. This is a quick read that is entertaining while being informative, rendered in an appealing art style. I would recommend this for teenagers or adults, especially those with an interest in LGBT history.

I'm delighted that there are so many LGBTQIA memoirs and thought projects coming out right now, and this is a strong one to add to the pile of satisfying graphic novels. Shelby's book adds their unique perspective and brings in research and remembering of queer pioneers that adds another dimension to their own story. I was glad they shared their story as well, as I think it anchors the book. The conceit of wandering around San Antonio meeting up with people is an interesting frame, but a little heavy-handed -- might work really well for younger readers. They've also done a brilliant job of interweaving resources and more information throughout.

Advanced Reader's Copy Provided by Edelweiss.

Shelby Criswell walks around San Antonio, Texas, and reflects on LGBTQ+ issues and historical figures whose stories have provided inspiration to them. The people are diverse in gender and sexuality as well as ethnicity, race, and religion with an emphasis on transgender and nonbinary individuals. They include doctors, sex workers, ministers, musicians, poets and activists. Many were unfamiliar to me, so I am appreciative of the introduction.