From Gay to Z: A Queer Compendium

In this rowdy celebration of queer culture, comedian and playwright Sayre (Husky) “throw[s] a little shade and make[s] a little joy” with a delicious “who’s who of the LGBTQ+.” Offering cheeky illustrations alongside a brisk and breezy cultural history, the guide—which focuses on “artists and activists who are gay, or have a gay following”—entertains and educates in equal measure. Sayre highlights the pioneering social work of Jane Addams (1860–1935), who founded the Hull House, a settlement house established to help immigrants in Chicago, with her “lover Ellen Starr”; stans “gay icon” Lady Gaga; and applauds Schitt’s Creek star Dan Levy’s affectionate portrayal of the “LGBTQ+ story.” RuPaul gets plenty of shout-outs for shepherding numerous queens into the spotlight thanks to Drag Race, while legendary “gay man” Franco Zeffirelli—whose productions of Aida, La Bohème, and Turandot rank as some of the 20th century’s most famous operas—offers a mic-drop of an end to the book. The author also thoughtfully gives space to “unlikely” yet important advocates such as “little old lady” Edie Windsor (1929–2017), who “took her case all the way to the Supreme Court and won, making gay marriage the law of the land.” While Sayre prudently notes that evolving nature of gay culture prohibits a definitive tome, this is an excellent start. (May)