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January 2015 Vol. 52 No. 5

Frank (New York Univ.) conducted over 100 personal interviews across two decades before compiling this well-researched account of lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transsexuals involved with local, regional, and nationwide labor unions.  The author chronicles intersections between LGBT social and political movements, and labor movements, in the US from 1965 to 2013.  Interviews include rank-and-file members, shop stewards, union staff, and union leaders.  Some of the interviews include discussions of back room maneuvers and experiences sitting across bargaining tables at union contract negotiations.  Although the book spans the nation, it does not analyze local union activity in all 50 states.  Its insightful coverage of variously sized unions and types of work places—discussing both strengths and weaknesses—gives readers a good historical look at the ebb and flow of relationships between “queer” America and labor movements.  Additionally, the book discusses some of the relationship problems at home, as interviewees reflect on their transitions of becoming involved in social or union activism.  The thorough notes, bibliography, and index make this a good resource for future researchers on social history, gender studies, labor movements, and LGBT/queer movements.

--G. M. Klein, Willamette University

Summing Up: Highly recommended. All readers.