Customer Reviews

Speaking Sex to Power: The Politics of Queer Sex

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Whether he's writing one-handed fiction or politically-minded essays, Patrick Califia can always be counted on to make readers think, laugh, and get angry. This latest essay collection is no exception. Califia takes on larger social issues, from NAMBLA to nonoxynol-9, but he also delves into the personal, including his mother's death from breast cancer and his own transition from female to male. Best of all, he writes candidly about the trials and joys of co-fathering his toddler son. The right-wingers will be foaming at the mouth over this one. Highly recommended

Although much of the text is about Mr. Califia's personal journey from female to male his writing in this text is inclusive and will not alienate his lesbian audience, he certainly appears to respect the fact that the lesbian community is where he had his start as a very well received author. His candor about his own sexual idenity, sexuality, and gender identity will prove very helpful to anyone who is struggling and find him or herself at whatever place on the gender spectrum. As always Califia is affirming in respect to people's identities while remaining subversive and loud. This text is intellectual without overwhelming the audience with academic rhetoric which is often abundant and excessive in queer theory.