Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
Court's empathetic and practical lesbian-focused queer relationship guide, illustrated by indie comics darling Wroten (Cannonball) began life as a series of self-published zines. This expanded package includes wide-ranging questions on crushes, first dates, long-distance relationships, open relationships, sexual compatibility, jealousy, breakups, friendship, community, coming out, dealing with conflict, and other challenging situations. For example: when to disclose a chronic condition on a date? Court responds, "You're worried that your endometriosis will scare away potential partners, but what's the point of being queer if you're still stuck with the same rigid, unimaginative blueprints for what sex looks like?" Court invites in guest contributors who handle specialized concerns, such as those touching on disability, as well as trans and nonbinary identities. Wroten's wonderfully whimsical illustrations enliven each scenario with a loose, energetic line and limited color palette that lends the page a Risograph print style. It's always easier to give advice than to take it, but heartsick or confused daters may find exactly the support they need in this compassionate volume. Agent: Edward Maxwell, SJGA. (May)
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Review by Library Journal Review
Court, who is known online as Xena Worrier Princess, has built a wonderful book out of her popular zine. This is more than a colorful advice column; it's a celebration of queer life and an affirmation of the beautiful nuances of relationships. Wroten's charming, highlighter-bright illustrations distill the stories' essences into funny mini comics; their inclusion helps keep the book's tone light even when dealing with heartbreak and depression. Many of the scenarios in these letters will be recognizable to lesbian, bisexual, and queer women and people of marginalized genders. Court and her guest advice columnists (JD Samson, Samantha Kirby, Kalyn Rose Heffernan, and other wise sages) provide plenty of insight while dishing out honest advice and thoughtful suggestions with humor, hopefulness, and respect. The book concludes with resources on mental health, sexual violence, queer relationships, and more. VERDICT While many of these questions come from people in their twenties, the valuable advice and relatable anecdotes will have YA crossover appeal. LGBTQ+ people of all ages will find stories that resonate deeply, and will appreciate Court's candor and humor throughout.--Rachel Rosenberg, North Vancouver District Lib., BC
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