The Advocate Adviser

Library Journal

Lesbians and gay men have often felt ignored by traditional advice columnists like ``Dear Abby,'' ``Ann Landers,'' or ``Miss Manners.'' Fortunately the national gay/lesbian weekly The Advocate offered an advice column, ``The Advocate Adviser,'' for them ten years ago. This book collects and groups some of the columns into categories like ``Meeting People'' or ``Coming Out'' or ``Sexual Problems'' with an excellent ``Resources'' section at the end. Califia's responses artfully combine practical advice with a supportive, often humorous delivery. Given that many of the queries reflect consenting adult sexual behavior, she is truthful and refreshingly nonjudgmental. Califia plainly calls it as she sees it, and while some of the language is raw, it is not offensive. Recommended for all public libraries.-- Richard Drezen, Merrill Lynch Capital Markets Lib., New York