A review by scott_thelibrarian
The Queer Musings of a One-Time Boy Skater by Joe Bainbridge

5.0

I had the best time reading this book! I know this is a memoir, but I truly think that it is a great representation of what it was like growing up as a gay kid in the 90s. I didn't skate, but I grew up hating myself for being gay; some of the hate sprouting from my religious upbringing, but also from toxic masculinity that belittled us gay teens/kids. I was taught that boys don't cry and with the "be a man and rub sum dirt in it" mentality. Growing up, you start to feel like you are the only one experiencing these struggles, so hearing other stories like Joe's just warms my heart. This is why it's so important for gay people to write books and tell their stories to give the next generation a map to find their people and to let them know that they are never alone.

With all of this said, I think the Joe has created something special. It's amazing how his therapeutic journaling turned into such a great resource for queer readers. His humor is fantastic and sprinkled throughout the book. I found myself laughing out lout multiple times during each chapter. There are some serious moments that discuss anxiety, depression, toxic masculinity, coming out, etc., but these elements just make this story so much more authentic and inspiring.

This is definitely a book that I would recommend. It's also a story that I think every gay male millennial should read because I think a majority of us will relate to Joe's story. Also, the 90s references are just top notch. Thank you for sharing your story, Joe!