Member Review

I’ve read a lot of books on asexuality over the last year - and to an extent, I feel like most of them have had the same things to say in slightly different ways. Don’t get me wrong: I love that asexuality is finally getting an explosion of representation. And I’m very glad to see such consistently high-quality introductory texts. (It’s hard for me to imagine a baby ace choosing the wrong book to explore their sexuality at this point.) But it does make reviewing them a challenge.

If I could pinpoint one place where I Am Ace shines, I think it’s in the way that the advice presented can so easily be expanded to include any sort of queer identity. Yes, it focuses on asexuality and spends a lot of time in the beginning defining related terms. But it also examines the problems inherent in choosing a “forever label” when life is anything but static. It talks about the challenges in coming out. It normalizes mixed orientation relationships. It walks the reader through expanding their definition of “intimacy” and having those conversations with partners. All concepts that I wish were common knowledge.

So yes, I Am Ace is very introductory and the language definitely feels aimed at adolescents. But it strikes a perfectly delicate balance between supporting all individuals on the journey of questioning their identity - while still prioritizing the ace community within their experiences. And what a wonderful way to impact the world!