Member Reviews
A well researched book filled with an impressive variety of media (newspapers, diaries and political accounts) which helps to give the reader an immersive view of that time.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the chance to read this ARC.
An anthology about the experience of gay men and the people in support and against them in London in the 1960s until homosexual acts became legal in private.
There isn’t much in way of original writing but it offers a unique collection of arts, journal entries, discussions and newspaper articles that help tell a story of how it was like. Some parts were more interesting than others but overall it gave what feels like an accurate view of history, both for and against.
Some Men In London: Queer Life, 1960-1967 by Peter Parker is an illuminating and richly detailed exploration of the lives of gay men during a transformative period in London's history. Parker brings to life the vibrancy and challenges of queer life in the 1960s, providing an intimate look at the social, cultural, and political landscape that shaped their experiences. Through personal stories, historical context, and sharp observations, the book captures the tension between secrecy and liberation that defined this era. It’s a poignant and important read that not only celebrates the resilience and courage of the men who navigated this complex world but also offers a deeper understanding of the roots of modern queer culture.
While the book absolutely holds up on what the title and blurb promised, the writing was on the dryer side than what I was hoping for. It took me quite long to get through it, which is a pity, as it tells such important stories. Would still stock in my bookstore.
this book had me hooked. i just had to find out more about the queer life in the 60's. as a being part of that community it was so fascinating to learn about all of the past
Some Men In London: Queer Life, 1960-1967, edited by Peter Parker (not the Spideyman) is the second instalment in the Some Men in London series. I wanted to read the first book, then upon seeing this second one on Netgalley, I requested to read and review it.
The first book covers the 1940s. Although I haven’t read it, as we can all guess, the second book reflects the change in attitudes towards queer men.
This volume is all I could ask for in an anthology; focused on a topic, a deep understanding of it, and a comprehensive selection.
Also, the selected work are in various mediums and are akin to the contents of a time capsule. We have come a long way, although we are not entirely there yet, but we will get there. This is the summary of this well-researched/structured/edited/presented and comprehensive anthology.
I will seek out the first volume. Though, after having read the progress in the time period covered in this volume, the first one will be more horrific. Yet, it is my duty to know the horrors of the time, and I am sure there will also be life-affirming and hopeful pieces as in this volume.
I highly recommend this book to all adults.