From the Publisher
"Appropriate both for novices investigating the legal implications of homosexuality and for researchers and attorneys, this is recommended for all libraries."
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Library Journal
" … this accessible, informative dictionary describes and illuminates a dynamic, contentious field … Highly recommended for all academic and public libraries."
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Choice
"An introduction offers a concise history of the gay rights movement that will prove useful for individuals just beginning their research. The well-developed index will be most helpful in ferreting out specific terms, especially for people new to this topic … Homosexuality and the Law would be very appropriate in public libraries of any size, as well as high school and academic libraries."
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Booklist
VOYA
It is natural for teens to explore their own sexuality and to wonder about the sexuality of others as well. This clearly worded and well-organized dictionary is a valuable reference work for high school, college, and postgraduate students. The organizational structure of the book is one of its strongest points. A table of contents lists topics alphabetically, with court cases in italic typeface, an unusual feature in a dictionary. Entries are written comprehensively to keep cross-references to a minimum. Although primary focus is on the laws surrounding gays, lesbians, bisexuals, and transgender individuals, there is also a wealth of psychological, sociological, and medical information included in most entries. Quotes often enliven the text. Terms used for the first time are in boldface type. If references are used, the sources are given at the end of the article. There are no pictures, but sometimes charts and graphs are included to clarify information. Supplemental material is also very helpful. The first appendix cites pertinent state and local laws. A second appendix of resources includes the name, address, telephone and fax numbers, and Web sites of advocacy organizations; a list of books and journals; a list of federal and state agencies for filing discrimination complaints; and a list of state human rights commission offices. Tables of legal cases and statutes also are included, followed by a comprehensive bibliography. The index supplies a level of detail not available in the table of contents, again with court cases in italic typeface. Stewart writes with intelligence, compassion, and humor, making the text fascinating to read. This dictionary belongs in high school and collegereference collections. Index. Biblio. Chronology. Appendix. 2001, ABC-CLIO, 429p, $55. Ages 15 to Adult. Reviewer: Debbie Earl SOURCE: VOYA, February 2002 (Vol. 24, No.6)
Library Journal
This comprehensive and thoroughly researched work considers the legal issues that gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered people face daily. Encyclopedic in length, the 112 alphabetically arranged entries include "Absurd Sex Laws," "The Federal Employment Non-Discrimination Order," "Reparative Therapy," "Sexual Harassment in Schools," and "Wills." These entries are fully developed with the addition of supportive or derivative themes, including lists of specific references. Uniquely, this reference represents not only solid legal material but the sociological, psychological, and medical contexts. A 23-page introduction succinctly reviews the historical evolution of the gay rights movement, from Karl Heinrich Ulrich (the grandfather of gay liberation) to Stonewall to the advent of the "separate but equal" slogan. The almost 100-page appendix details state and local laws on a state-by-state and city-by-city basis and also provides a comprehensive list of appropriate resources and available services. Finally, a table of statutes and a helpful index complete this monumental work. Stewart, a specialist in intercultural education, is author of Sexually Stigmatized Communities. Appropriate both for novices investigating the legal implications of homosexuality and for researchers and attorneys, this is recommended for all libraries. John-Leonard Berg, Univ. of Wisconsin Lib., Platteville Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.
Booknews
Stewart has spent his career on efforts to reduce homophobia in schools, police forces, and society in general in California. Warning that the law changes constantly, he provides a reference for high school, college, and postgraduate students and to researchers and general readers interested in gay issues. Unlike most law books, references are numerous to sociological, psychological, and medical information. Supporting material includes a list of cases mentioned, relevant state and local laws, national and state agencies, and state human rights commissions. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
