The GLBTRT has been reviewing books and movies in its newsletter since the early 1990s. Trace the evolution of queer publishing through these historic reviews. This review was originally published in Vol. 4, No. 3, Fall 1992.
This book’s subtitle explains more about the purpose for this book than anything else: ”bisexual people speak out.”
Just as gay women and men have difficulty in coming out of the closet due to a lack of role models, so do bisexuals.
To alleviate that problem, the editors have compiled contributions from 70 women and men across the US., representing a wide range of educational and political backgrounds. A few of the entries are poetic, while many of the writings incorporate each person’s “coming out” story.
Bi Any Other Name is certainly enlightening for any reader, since so many straights and gays have said, “I have never met a true bisexual.” After reading this book, your eyes will open up to a more diverse world of sexuality. Organized into four chapters, the book focuses on psychology, spirituality, visibility and politics.
I would categorize this title as a ”basic coming out book,” which should be read by counselors, therapists, clergy and doctors, as they all work with individuals’ sexuality. I would also suggest this for instructors of human sexuality classes, as well as volunteers at lesbian and gay phone lines, as they should be prepared to handle questions on all forms of sexuality.
Although bisexuality has been noticeable in societies for centuries, there are less than 40 books on the subject in some of the largest academic libraries in the U.S., and only a handful in most public libraries. Therefore this book would likely fill a collection gap at most public and academic libraries.
Reviewed by Gary M. Klein
University of Toledo
Toledo,OH