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Generation Queer: A Gay Man's Quest for Hope, Love, and Justice
by Bob Paris

No one knows better the rewards of standing up and speaking out as a gay man than Bob Paris. A dynamic activist, eloquent lecturer, and the successful author of six books, his public appearances and oft-read writings have positively influenced the lives of countless gay men and lesbians.

Now Bob Paris breaks new ground in a revelatory look at what it means to be young, gay, and out in the age of liberation; to be a vital, joyous, contributing member of...Generation Queer. In a society that has traditionally condemned homosexuality, coming to grips with being gay can be stressful if not devastating. Public condemnation, familial and religious pressures, and few role models often cloud gay identity with negativity and self-doubt.

In Part One of this book, Bob Paris insightfully and eloquently probes the deep ambivalence many gays feel about their homosexuality as well as the incredible, historic opportunity for spiritual healing and social growth in today's world. Drawing on his own journey-from suicidal teen to bodybuilding superstar to loving self-acceptance of his own gayness-Paris shares his unceasing belief in the power of love to conquer hatred.

In Part Two, Paris offers keen advice on nurturing healthy relationships and building self-esteem. Through questions and answers culled from his mailbag as an activist and lecturer, he shows gay people how to cope with their feelings and the world at large. The HIV+ man fearful of divulging his status to a new romantic interest... the 27-year-old Canadian torn between sexual preference and religious conviction... the 44-year-old married man tormented by a double life... all benefit from the author's comfort and counsel.

Compassionate, uncompromising, and illuminating, Generation Queer is the ideal gift for young gay men and women of today. Its purity of vision will inspire them to stop apologizing for who they are, to vanquish prejudice with dignity, and to take their place in the warmth of a welcoming universe.

"When we are queer it sometimes seems as if the heavens have dealt us the most terrible hand. The entropic, pulling-downward nature of the universe dares us to stand up in the face of such an overwhelming curse. But if we have courage we challenge gravity; we push up against the weight of unquestioned submission to lies and false myths. We claim our place among the gifted. We are the gifted. We all are... "-from Generation Queer

Bob Paris Books