John F. Herberger

A must listen re LGBTQ history

Revisado: 01-18-23

This is binge listen! An Important listen. You won’t be disappointed but parts are hard to hear

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There are quite a few gems in here

Revisado: 08-17-22

Overall I enjoyed this book and the author’s life story. There were moments I had to stop, really listen to what was being said and examine my own experience as a gay/queer (not sure which word really fits me) man. Sometimes I’d have to sit with a statement or idea and digest it for a few days. Other times I could hear my friends of color and of different socioeconomic wealth when they call me out on my privilege - and I wanted to do so with the author. Yet, he is frank about his experiences and sometimes even his privilege. He is frank about what he feels/thinks and exposes his underbelly at moments.

At first listen I found the book to be preachy but with time and contemplation I realized it was fatherly (more so than preachy) and remembered, when as a parent, how many times I’ve been accused of lecturing or preaching. I think it’s difficult sometimes to not come off as such. Also, the book is narrated by the author, so his inflections and tone match his fatherly, advice giving tone.

My favorite parts were when he focused on the importance of remembering our roots and specifically the strides made, and the fragility of our gained rights. This message (for me) seems so needed with the younger LGBTQ+ community. And yes, I’m around the author’s age so much of what I’ve experienced matches the author’s experience.

This book stirred up feelings and made me take the time to examine and contemplate my own history and life experiences. Isn’t that what a good book does?

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A Beautiful Way of Experiencing the Divine

Revisado: 08-10-22

This is my second time through this book. I’ve read it once and am now listening while I drive.
Having come through a literal fundamentalist faith, this book brought me back to the Love of the Divine and resurrected my faith in a new light. Like a drink of living water.

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Poetic and Raw

Revisado: 03-06-21

Poetic imagery, even in the most horrendous of situations. I couldn’t look away. Vietnam, war, abuse, immigration, PTSD, mental health, poverty, addiction, love of family, self hatred, coming of age, coming out, and the will to continue to evolve. Voung has a lyrical grasp on language, with words; however, this novel is not for the faint of heart. It is still raw with emotion and truth, as much as it is painted with poetic strokes.

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Went from a mild fan to an admirer

Revisado: 12-31-20

Soul searching reflection. Honest, with a mix of humility and ego. Written by an artist who has truly worked on his recovery from addictions. Also full of lol moments

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Visceral raw emotion walking alongside mindful self reflection

Revisado: 02-06-20

Abuse, survival sex work, HIV/AIDS - before meds, addiction, the search to make meaning and be heard, be counted and the oppressive Reagan-Bush years.

I loved this book. Not for the faint of heart

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