From: Rizzoe@fasecon.econ.nyu.edu (Emily Rizzo)
Subject: Book Review "Outing Yourself" by M. Signorile
Date: Mon, 3 Jul 1995 15:05:15 GMT




I'm not a Michelangelo Signorile fan so I wasn't predisposed 
to like his newest book "Outing Yourself:  How to Come Out 
as  Lesbian or Gay to Your Family, Friends, and Co-Workers."
But gone is the strident politicization of outing from "Queer
in America" and also the whining self-pity exhibited in the 
recent op-ed piece in the New York Times on staying negative.

"Outing Yourself" is a clearly written (in fact, it is such an
easy read that young teens should have no trouble with it) step 
by step *practical* guide to coming out to everybody.  In 14 
steps, Signorile takes you from  coming out to yourself, to 
other gay people, to straight friends, family, co-workers and 
the world.  He includes along the way simple exercises, 
helpful hints and directions so that even people still living 
at home, or in rural areas, can follow along.  He gives good 
examples of why you should come out as well as how.
There's none of the brashness of "Queer in America"; Signorile accepts
the reality that it is not always safe to come out under all 
circumstances.  He provides check lists to tell if you are ready
to proceed with each step and provides assurances if you are not.

As the mother of a gay man I was most interested in the section 
on coming out to parents.  Signorile handles this part expertly
and even discusses the most difficult situation:   what to do 
when, after you are out, you hit the wall of denial, when your
parents just don't want to talk about it.    

And finally in the last chapter he reveals the ultimate triumph
of being out to everybody:  not thinking about it at all and the
freedom and peace of mind that brings.  

This book is published by Ramdom House and sells for $20.00.
It's 172 pages long and in a small enough volume to be discretely
tucked into a briefcase or bookbag.

Emily

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Emily Rizzo - send private e-mail for information on Parents, Families and
Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG), and a free brochure, sent in complete 
confidentiality, about coming out to parents. rizzoe@fasecon.econ.nyu.edu