lozzypop1998's review
4.0
Great books to read to gain some insight and knowledge around the history of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I don’t usually read non-fiction books but saw this in my local library and picked it up!
I has such fun and interesting facts and history and is a quick read
I don’t usually read non-fiction books but saw this in my local library and picked it up!
I has such fun and interesting facts and history and is a quick read
hereistheend's review
5.0
This book may be short and easy to read, but phew, it's an emotional, revealing read. I've read a bit about global LGBTQ history before, but definitely learned more. Did you know that in the 60's, you could be arrested for wearing too few clothing appropriate for your gender, as it could hint at being trans? Or that gay men liberated from Nazi concentration camps were often sent straight to prison?
bea_666's review
4.0
Aimed at young adults, or people with a basic understanding of famous LGBTQ+ individuals wanting to learn more.
About revolutionary Western LGBTQ+ people in their fight for recognition and liberation. Enough information to learn new things and have a basic understanding; leaves room for reader to research additional information.
Focused closely on individuals in Western countries. Some mention of non-Western countries. World history of LGBTQ+ rights would be massive, but I wish the author mentioned that they were focusing on the West.
Beautiful illustrations.
Gave me a feeling of pride, determination, and camaraderie with LGBTQ+ people, as a Queer woman.
About revolutionary Western LGBTQ+ people in their fight for recognition and liberation. Enough information to learn new things and have a basic understanding; leaves room for reader to research additional information.
Focused closely on individuals in Western countries. Some mention of non-Western countries. World history of LGBTQ+ rights would be massive, but I wish the author mentioned that they were focusing on the West.
Beautiful illustrations.
Gave me a feeling of pride, determination, and camaraderie with LGBTQ+ people, as a Queer woman.
jmross10's review against another edition
informative
reflective
medium-paced
4.0
Rainbow Revolutions is a beautifully illustrated book that discusses the origins of words like “homosexual” and “lesbian”. As well as identifies key social justice reformers and movements within the queer community. And, highlights the struggles and setbacks faced by members of that same community.
The writing style is accessible without being “angry” and informative without being overwhelming. It’s a nice introduction for people who may not know much about queer history but it also highlights some stories, people, and events that someone more familiar with queer history might not be aware of. I certainly got a book recommendation or two out of it.
I’d highly recommend if you’re looking for a low pressure and informative read. It’d be great for busting reading slumps (you’re bound to find something you want to read more about) or a chill day at the beach. But don’t be fooled by the pretty pictures, this book isn’t for little kids. While there’s nothing explicit mentioned or shown, there is quite a bit of reading and I suspect anyone under like 12 or 13 wouldn’t sit through it.
The writing style is accessible without being “angry” and informative without being overwhelming. It’s a nice introduction for people who may not know much about queer history but it also highlights some stories, people, and events that someone more familiar with queer history might not be aware of. I certainly got a book recommendation or two out of it.
I’d highly recommend if you’re looking for a low pressure and informative read. It’d be great for busting reading slumps (you’re bound to find something you want to read more about) or a chill day at the beach. But don’t be fooled by the pretty pictures, this book isn’t for little kids. While there’s nothing explicit mentioned or shown, there is quite a bit of reading and I suspect anyone under like 12 or 13 wouldn’t sit through it.
chrysfey's review
5.0
This book is fabulous. This is a history of queer rights that was needed and is needed. I learned knew things and expanded my knowledge on others. There’s so much here that’s not readily known and for a reason, because it was history that had been buried on purpose or it was taboo to discuss.
For instance, we all know about Hitler’s terrifying reign in which Jewish people, Polish people, people of color, people with disabilities, and queer people were targeted. While the fact that queer people were targeted is mentioned (most of the time), it’s never really discussed. Like how 5,000-15,000 men were sent to concentration camps for being gay, and when the war ended and the camps closed, they weren’t often freed but sent straight to prison for being (or assumed) gay. They are “forgotten victims of the Nazis.”
This book covers a lot including the Stonewall Riots, the AIDS crisis, voguing, the rainbow flag, Pride marches, the LGBTQ+ acronym, prominent figures, and more.