34 pages 1 hour read

Stone Butch Blues

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1993

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Book Brief

Leslie Feinberg

Stone Butch Blues

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1993
Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Buffalo, New York • 1960s

Publication Year

1993

Publisher

Alyson Books

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Stone Butch Blues by Leslie Feinberg follows Jess, who seeks to authentically exist while grappling with her gender identity in a hostile society. Facing trauma, rejection, and persecution from childhood into adulthood, Jess navigates dangerous environments, finds meaningful relationships, and eventually settles into her true identity, blending themes of gender identity, class politics, and the quest for self-acceptance. The book includes incidents of severe violence and sexual assault.

Challenging

Gritty

Emotional

Contemplative

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

4.6

31,064 ratings

89%

Loved it

8%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Leslie Feinberg's Stone Butch Blues is lauded for its raw, poignant narrative that delves into the complexities of gender identity and the LGBTQ+ experience. Reviewers commend its powerful storytelling and historical significance. Some critique its heavy themes as potentially overwhelming, but many see it as a crucial, transformative read. This landmark work continues to resonate deeply with audiences.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Stone Butch Blues?

Readers who appreciate deeply personal narratives exploring gender identity, LGBTQ+ history, and working-class struggles would enjoy Stone Butch Blues by Leslie Feinberg. Fans of Fun Home by Alison Bechdel and Giovanni's Room by James Baldwin will find similar themes of self-discovery and societal challenges.

4.6

31,064 ratings

89%

Loved it

8%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

Jess

The protagonist who grapples with gender identity and societal norms, navigating challenges and relationships while seeking to remain true to herself.

A parental figure to Jess who helps her learn how to dress and survive as a gender outsider, preparing her for a difficult life ahead.

Butch Al's femme lover who provides Jess with comfort and support, helping her recover from social and physical adversities.

Jess's first serious girlfriend, a dancer who struggles with Jess's attempts to protect her, leading to tension in their relationship.

Jess's first real love, sharing both sexual and intellectual bond, though they face differences in views on identity and hormones.

A pivotal figure who introduces Jess to the gay and lesbian community, facilitating key connections despite later rejecting Jess's transition.

A recurring romantic interest for Jess, an older femme whose entanglements with Jess impact her friendships and personal decisions.

A butch friend and co-worker who understands Jess's struggles, offering support and solidarity in both work and personal matters.

A character who shares Jess's journey with hormones, despite their political differences, forming a bond over their shared experiences.

A fellow union worker who becomes an advocate and friend to Jess, recognizing her potential as a leader and organizer.

A transgender woman who, through shared understanding and companionship with Jess, becomes a significant partner in Jess's life.

Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Buffalo, New York • 1960s

Publication Year

1993

Publisher

Alyson Books

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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