Book Review
A short overview of this book
What if? Answers to questions about what it means to be gay and lesbian by Eric Marcus answers questions for teens about being same-sex attracted.
This book answers more than 100 questions that teens commonly ask about being gay.
It is a useful resource for kids who are same-sex attracted themselves or know someone who is. It is also valuable for parents who want to understand and support their child.
Ideal Age
Ideal for children aged 14 to 18 years.
Buy this book
✅ Buy a copy of What if? Answers to questions about what it means to be gay and lesbian by Eric Marcus from Amazon.
Video Transcription
A transcription in case you are more of a reader than a listener
Hey there! I’m Cath Hack from Sex Ed Rescue, where we dive into all things related to sex education. Lately, I’ve been getting a lot of questions from parents about books that can help them be better, more supportive partners to their gay children. So, I found this awesome book called What If: Answers to Questions about What It Means to be Gay and Lesbian by Eric Marcus. It’s been around for a while, first published in 2000, but this is the 2013 edition.
Now, this book is a bit different from others. It’s not filled with fancy diagrams or colorful illustrations like some other books out there. But let me tell you, it’s packed with loads of valuable information. I really like it, and I think you and your teenager will too.
The book covers a range of topics, starting with the basics like what it means to be gay. It answers questions like: Is being gay the same as being LGBT? What does transgender mean? Are transgender people gay? How do you know if you’re gay? It even delves into the history of camps in America that aimed to change kids’ sexual orientation. It’s important to remember that we don’t have that same history here in Australia.
The book also tackles questions about coming out to friends and family, dating, marriage, and kids. It addresses concerns about religion and discrimination, and even explores the topic of affection for parents. It’s a comprehensive guide that covers a lot of ground.
One thing I really appreciate about this book is that it addresses common misconceptions and myths. It helps debunk negative ideas and provides clarity on important issues. It’s a great resource for parents who want to better understand and support their gay children, but it’s also a valuable read for teenagers themselves.
The book offers advice on how to talk to your parents about your sexuality, how to navigate friendships, and even how to handle crushes on friends. It’s full of practical tips and insights that can help avoid misunderstandings and preserve important relationships.
And let’s not forget about the chapter on sex! It answers questions like: How do gay people have sex? Are they at higher risk for certain health issues? It’s all about providing accurate information and dispelling any misconceptions.
The book also touches on the intersection of sexuality and religion, recognizing that different people interpret their faiths in different ways. It’s a thoughtful exploration of how to reconcile personal beliefs with being same-sex attracted.
Lastly, the book addresses the challenges that gay individuals may face in school, as well as the importance of activism and standing up against discrimination. It’s a powerful reminder that everyone deserves respect and acceptance.
In a nutshell, this book is a fantastic resource. It’s not always easy for young adults to navigate their sexuality, especially when faced with societal negativity. That’s why books like this are so important. They help young people feel comfortable and confident in who they are.
So, as a parent, reading this book can give you a better understanding of what your child may be going through and how you can support them. And for your teenager, it’s a valuable tool to help them navigate their own journey.
I hope this review helps you decide if this book is right for you and your family. Cheers!
