SOCIAL SCIENCES

Against Memoir: Complaints, Confessions & Criticisms

by Michelle Tea
Amethyst. May 2018. 300p. ISBN 9781936932184. $18.95. SOC SCI
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Author and poet Tea (Without a Net) covers the gamut of her experience in this unputdownable antimemoir, which consists of previously published articles, talks, essays, and reviews but mostly recollections of her experience as a queer activist. Valerie Solanas and Andy Warhol make star appearances at the start, but the book's core is devoted to an array of topics on queerness, transgender rights, childbirth, and romantic relationships of many types. Tea demonstrates admirable honesty on various subjects. The standout essay "How Not To Be a Queer Douchebag" is a prime example. Readers unfamiliar with the author should be advised that she is often explicit in her descriptions of sex, but they will likely understand her tone and not find the writings to be purposely offensive.
VERDICT These charming essays deserve a wider readership beyond the LGBTQIA community, and since Tea is already well-known in those circles, it can be hoped that this will expand her audience.
Reviewed by David Azzolina, Univ. of Pennsylvania Libs., Philadelphia , Apr 15, 2018
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