Join our New York City group for a heartfelt and engaging discussion at our July Book Club meeting! In a special tribute to the late Edmund White, we'll be diving into his captivating novel, "Our Young Man," which follows a gorgeous Frenchman navigating the New York fashion and gay community, exploring themes of identity, beauty, and deception. This is an opportunity to connect with fellow queer and ally professionals, share perspectives, and reflect on themes that resonate deeply within our community. Come ready for a vibrant conversation that explores the power of identity, beauty, and the complexities of queer life through a literary lens.
Register To Join Us
Our Book Club events are free to attend, but space is limited. Register today to secure your spot!
What To Expect
Deep Dive Discussion :: Engage in an open and honest conversation about "Our Young Man" and its impactful themes.
Shared Insights :: Learn from the diverse perspectives across Build Out Alliance related to the book's themes.
Community Connection :: Forge meaningful connections with people who share a passion for literature and community.
About The Book
"Our Young Man" by Edmund White is a compelling journey following Guy, a stunning Frenchman who rises from humble beginnings to become a top model in New York City's fashion world and a beloved figure in the Fire Island gay community. Like Dorian Gray, Guy seems to defy age, maintaining the illusion of youth to secure wealth and affection, even as it comes at a cost. White, drawing on his own experience at Vogue, expertly navigates the spectrum of gay amorous life from the disco era into the age of AIDS, offering a witty and poignant exploration of physical beauty's power to fascinate, enslave, and deceive.
About The Author
Edmund White (1940-2024) was a celebrated American novelist, memoirist, and literary critic, widely recognized for his profound contributions to queer literature. His works often explored themes of gay identity, sexuality, and the queer experience with unflinching honesty and elegant prose. A prolific writer, White left an indelible mark on contemporary literature, fearlessly charting the emotional and social landscapes of queer lives. His passing marks the loss of a truly vital and influential voice.
About Book Club
The Build Out Alliance book club brings members of our community together, from avid readers to short-story dabblers, around many queer voices captured by the written word. Our meetings include open and honest conversations about each book, where we welcome all critiques and opinions. Many of these books are an opportunity to educate ourselves about queer history and identity, often linked to some of the most pressing issues we face today. Book Club’s range of selections intentionally promotes insight into a wide spectrum of topics, identities, and stories within the queer community.
Still have questions?
Reach out to Tommy Guerra at tguerra@buildoutalliance.org with questions or for more information.