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A review by aknglvsbl
Giovanni's Room by James Baldwin
4.0
After the privilege of reading so many queer books of joy and daily living in the post 2000s age, it was a devastating punch to the gut to read such blatant and degrading internalised misogyny, homophobia and transphobia (the transmisogyny is particularly horrific at times).
This is certainly not a love story. It is a gritty queer gay/bisexual story. It digs deep into the unraveling of David, Giovanni, and others who desperately seek love/acceptance/community against an oppressive societal messaging that they are not deserving of it.
The writing was very clear and easy to read. David’s emotions, decisions and opinions were harshly exposed, letting you experience it all, or judge David from a relatively safe position.
I can’t say I enjoyed this book, but I think the perspectives and internal struggle of a queer person of this time are hugely important.
This is certainly not a love story. It is a gritty queer gay/bisexual story. It digs deep into the unraveling of David, Giovanni, and others who desperately seek love/acceptance/community against an oppressive societal messaging that they are not deserving of it.
The writing was very clear and easy to read. David’s emotions, decisions and opinions were harshly exposed, letting you experience it all, or judge David from a relatively safe position.
I can’t say I enjoyed this book, but I think the perspectives and internal struggle of a queer person of this time are hugely important.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Transphobia