Good selection of Australian LGBTQI+ stories across time which shows the inherent difficulties of being marginalised for sexual orientation- even now. Collated well chronologically with historical details that provide context. Self construction of a comfortable identity was a strong theme. The need to be yourself shone through.

Gutsy, visceral and funny read- Rosie‘s recounts of her childhood abuse and the effects of trauma are third-partied in a way that impacts profoundly. Her construction of identity and mental health are self-examined and complex but also accessible. Her survival skills are evident as are her self destructive learnt behaviours- all too real in places. Hard hitting but hilarious- one has to survive childhood abuse somehow and Rosie certainly has.

Extensive personal tour and insight into homophobia across Australia, especially the impact on young LGBTIQ+ people struggling to come out and be accepted in their families and communities. Clunky in places with detail but a worthy read to understand common LGBTIQ+ experiences-the thread of discrimination held this book together. There is hope and change and it‘s critically important that LGBTIQ+ rights stay on the agenda. Inclusiveness matters!

Compelling read. Hard to tell whose side the writer was on allowing an objective and a strangely narrative description of the trial. I remember this horrifying story in the media-this was compounded for me in the book. It is gripping, complex and insightful into the craziness of human nature and the love that binds us especially when children become involved. Sad, tragic and true story. Helen Garner seems to have grasped the truth amidst it all.

Beautiful and absorbing details... still so relevant to LGBTI experiences of marginalisation and the often painful coming out to family. A writer that had an important story to tell of his gay love and lifetime partnership- cut short by HIV/AIDS at a time when it was pure terror to have that diagnosis. Strong, brave, honest. The movie is very true to the book too- funny, gritty, reflective and moving.

Glenda writes with such insight into the things that matter in life. Lovely read that reflects gently on pain, grief & life complicated by trauma, through young teen eyes. Social class, family, young love are themes, as well as dealing with the past & how it can affect your future if you let it or choose instead to make you stronger and still able to love. Enjoyed this book very much :))