A review by librar_bee
A Place of Our Own: Six Spaces That Shaped Queer Women's Culture by June Thomas

informative inspiring reflective medium-paced

5.0

5 stars. Thomas's sweeping history of queer women in the United States transcends borders and boundaries and becomes spaces - from bars to bookstores to softball fields. In documenting the challenges and successes of queer women's efforts to build community in a capitalist economy, Thomas introduces us to the individuals who shaped the spaces which queer women can more freely enjoy today.

This book honors the legacy of queer women whose efforts can be seen today, in sex toy shops and on the main streets of queer vacation towns. The continued potential for queer women to build the communities they dreamed of despite the financial and sociopolitical challenges of late-twentieth century America is deeply inspirational and moving. Thomas's writing weaves together her own experience, the words of the women who cultivated these important spaces, and engaging historical narrative.

Thoughtfully researched and reflective, Thomas's work honors the legacy of queer women in America while reflecting on the shortcomings that future generations can strive to amend.