“You’re more than just neither, honey. There’s other ways to be than either-or.”

Brutal and efficient sketches that amass to something quite substantial. Dated in some ways but nonetheless a groundbreaking representation of gender nonconformity. Jess is a flawed and compelling protagonist. The story follows her life as a working class butch in America in the latter half of the twentieth century. It’s essentially a series of anecdotes, progressing from one job to another or one partner to another (it’s more engaging than I make it sound, I promise). The one thing tying it all together (besides Jess as a character) is the theme of change, summed up nicely in this quote: “things don’t change back [...] they just keep changing.” It works well, it’s a skilfully crafted novel.

I’m really glad I finally read this book. I can see why it’s considered a classic of lesbian/trans literature.

CONTENT WARNINGS: homophobia, transphobia, misogyny, racism, antisemitism, violence, sexual harassment and rape, police brutality, imprisonment, institutionalisation, homelessness, injury, suicide