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Late Bloomer Baby Boomer: A Collection of Humorous Essays About Being Gay Back in the Day and Finally Finding My Way
This book is a wild, hilarious, deeply personal ride through the life of Steve Milliken—a gay man navigating everything from awkward high school moments to dating disasters in the digital age. Told through a series of essays, it captures a lifetime of mishaps, misunderstandings, and moments of clarity. It’s part coming-of-age memoir, part comedic stand-up routine, with a little social commentary sprinkled in for good measure. Milliken reflects on growing up queer, teaching in tough school environments, dealing with Grindr misadventures, and just trying to survive the everyday weirdness of life.
Steve Milliken is funny. Like, really funny. Not in that overly polished, trying-too-hard kind of way. He’s more like that friend who always tells the best stories at brunch and makes you spit out your mimosa. For example, in the chapter “Plenty of Fish, but Still a Fish Out of Water,” he dives into the absurd world of online dating and it’s painfully relatable. His description of being a middle-aged man on apps meant for twenty-somethings had me actually laughing out loud. He doesn’t hold back, but it never feels mean or bitter—it’s just honest in that “oh God, I’ve been there” kind of way.
But it’s not all laughs. Milliken slips in some emotional moments too, like in “A Father’s Love” or “Changing Closets,” where he explores the heavy stuff—family, acceptance, the fear of being vulnerable, the late-bloomer shame. It’s raw and beautiful and made me tear up more than once. I think what I loved most is how he swings between funny and heartfelt without warning, like you’ll be chuckling at a joke about Ambien-induced chaos one second, and the next you’re hit with a truth about aging, loneliness, or identity that just… lands. Hard.
Honestly, I think Late Bloomer Baby Boomer is perfect for anyone who’s ever felt like they missed the boat on figuring life out “on time.” Queer folks, obviously, will see themselves in a lot of these pages, but really, anyone who’s navigated awkwardness, insecurity, or change will find something here. If you like David Sedaris or Augusten Burroughs but wish they talked more about disco, bad hookups, and classroom chaos, this one’s for you. I finished it feeling like I’d spent a few hours with an old friend who wasn’t afraid to get messy and vulnerable—and I loved every minute of it.
Pages: 228 | ASIN : B0BQ6HC4P2
Queering the Path to Enlightenment, Book One: Beginning the Journey
Queering the Path to Enlightenment, by David Franklin Sparks, offers a bold and invigorating perspective on Buddhist teachings, uniquely tailored to resonate with LGBTQ+ experiences. It challenges traditional narratives, providing a fresh lens through which spirituality and queerness can harmoniously intertwine.
At its heart, the book redefines the Buddhist concept of samsara—the endless cycles of suffering and rebirth—by connecting it to the specific challenges faced by queer individuals. From navigating societal expectations to confronting internalized prejudices, Sparks dives deep into these realities. Yet, he doesn’t stop at acknowledgment; he equips readers with practical tools and meditative practices designed to help break free from these cycles and foster a more liberating spiritual journey.
What elevates this book is its unapologetic celebration of queer identity. Sparks positions individuality not as a hindrance but as a powerful, transformative asset on the path to enlightenment. His message is clear and empowering: authenticity is sacred, and queerness holds a profound value often overlooked in traditional spiritual texts. This is more than a book—it’s a call to embrace your true self, honor your unique journey, and unlock your immense potential for growth and awakening. Sparks skillfully balances respect for Buddhist traditions with a modern, inclusive approach.
His writing is both approachable and profound, making complex concepts accessible to beginners while offering rich insights for seasoned practitioners. The meditative exercises and actionable guidance woven throughout are not just thoughtful additions—they are transformative tools, seamlessly fitting into everyday life while offering profound opportunities for change. Beyond its focus on queer spirituality, the book extends a welcoming hand to allies and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of inclusivity in spiritual practice. It reframes the queer experience as one of strength and wisdom, blending humor and insight to create an inspiring, uplifting narrative.
In a genre often mired in abstraction or rigidity, Sparks delivers a rare gem. Queering the Path to Enlightenment stands out as a work that empowers and affirms, making it a must-read for LGBTQ+ individuals and anyone drawn to a fresh perspective on Buddhism. Sparks’ voice is both warm and inclusive, creating a guide that feels as much a companion as it is a roadmap for self-discovery and spiritual growth.
Pages: 195 | ASIN : B0DH7NHLTP
LITERARY TITAN 