tlashop.com

Bigbearphx wrote on 10/08/2011:

This uplifting anthology of stories of young LGBT or Q individuals is a logical follow-up to the "It Gets Better" campaign. Specifically, it gives you some ideas how such individuals have taken steps to make it get better, in their lives and those of their peers. Editor Berman and twelve other new or established writers tell the diverse stories of teens facing adversities - mostly related to how to survive in a heterosexist world - and how they dealt with these challenges. Each is prefaced by a short introduction by the author, mentioning their connection or empathy to what the character is feeling.

The stories deal with situations ranging from simple schoolboy crushes to nonconforming gender identity. The scenarios include religious issues, participating in school sports, and coping when a childhood playmate decides he or she is not "that way" after all. Strategies vary from simple "coming out" to open-minded straight allies, to subtle fighting of stereotypes, or in-your-face necessary confrontations, The stories are generally well-written and definitely heart-felt, and, in my opinion, can provide a lot more comfort to a troubled LGBT teen than a simple promise that things will improve. Four stars out of four.

- Bob Lind, Echo Magazine