Synopsis
Designed to serve as both a one-stop information source and a guide to in-depth exploration, this engaging volume examines the controversial subject of gay and lesbian rights. Thoroughly objective in its presentation, the volume includes a chronology of significant developments in the gay rights movement, biographical sketches of important and influential people, a review of relevant legislation, and excerpts from speeches and articles on both sides of the issue. Selected print and nonprint resource listings direct readers to additional information on this complicated, emotional matter. This volume provides solid, useful information that can serve as a foundation for further research and enhanced understanding of this critical issue.\
Library Journal
It is difficult to ascertain for whom-if anyone-this book would be of value. An attempt to provide an overview of the struggle for homosexual rights is followed by an inconsistent chronology of important events in the gay and lesbian rights movement. Twenty-nine short biographical sketches of some of the most important figures on both sides of the gay and lesbian rights debate provide basic information, but by what criteria were they chosen? Statements and documents culled from a variety of sources provide examples of legislation, comments, and court decisions. Directories of national, state, and local gay and lesbian rights organizations are juxtaposed with an incomplete list of antigay organizations. An inadequate index, a remarkably outdated list of periodicals, an ineffectual glossary, and many errors demonstrate an overwhelming need for editorial control of this overpriced cut-and-paste job. Not recommended; a possible alternative is The Rights of Lesbians and Gay Men: The Basic ACLU Guide to a Gay Person's Rights (Southern Illinois Univ. Pr., 1992. 3d ed.).-James E. Van Buskirk, San Francisco P.L.\