This was a very insightful read about queer theory and what it means to be bisexual in the current day. The author identifies as bisexual and gives very well written, intimate, and poignant details.

Since this is a nonfiction piece, I found that it was a little slow and dense, especially at the beginning, but lightened throughout the book! I highly recommend this book to those who aren’t as familiar with LGBT+ culture; as a sapphic woman, I felt as though there wasn’t that much that I gained from this, but if you are straight this may be more educational.

This book is unlike what I typically read. Not because of the topic or genre, but rather from the topic and genre together. I prefer to read fictional stories with LGBTQ+ rep, versus from an educational, Nonfiction perspective. But I am so glad that I decided to pick up this book!

While I am not exactly out with my bisexuality, I wouldn't say I'm closeted. (If you know me and are reading this, and I haven't told you yet --- SURPRISE!) So my review comes from a baby bi's perspective. The book tackles so many difficult topics about what it means (and doesn't mean) to be bisexual... it ranges in topics of the history of bisexuality being studied, where bisexuality can be found in nature, the difficulties of coming out and bi-erasure, and political steps forward (and backwards) of various countries around the world. The book is a wealth of knowledge, and Julia Shaw did a fantastic job with the information she puts forth.

It's not a quick read by any means, and it's not one to devour in a weekend. Rather, it's a book to read at a slower pace, too really appreciate the information within.

I love reading about queer theory, and as a bi person I feel like bisexuals are often left out of it! I really enjoyed reading this book about all things bi--I didn't learn anything new as I've been pretty active in the community for years, but somebody at a more beginners level will DEFINITELY benefit. Loved!

Dr. Shaw is a criminal psychologist and is also vocally bisexual. This book is her passion project. I’m happy to report that it is a well-researched book- with links and citations at the end of every chapter! This book touches on LGBTQIA+ history, violence, and oppression but highlights the invisibility and isolation specifically experienced in bisexual realm. I can see where this would be a solid reference for the bisexual community — which I believe was part of the intention of writing it. Julia Shaw is the real deal.

Bi: The Hidden Culture, History, and Science of Bisexuality is an impeccably researched and validating book. Historically, bi people are too often questioned and doubted, asked to prove beyond reason that they are real. To those who struggle with this discrimination and feelings of invalidity, this book can only be a balm. This is an informative and engaging read for those seeking to learn more, regardless of their orientation. I can’t wait to get a hard copy for my shelves and I’m already planning to re-read this excellent book. Bi: The Hidden Culture, History, and Science of Bisexuality releases on June 28, 2022. Thank you so much to Julia Shaw, Abrams Books, and Netgalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I wanted to love this book, but I could not get into it. I think the author tried too hard. Perhaps it was just not for me.

Okay so I never read nonfiction. When I do I would not like to rate it because I feel what is weird since it’s real life and not fiction. Just my personal thoughts and reasons. That’s why it’s 3 star. It’s in the middle.
One of my goals is to read more nonfiction this year. I also want to learn more about bisexuality for personal reasons. I found this book very powering and it spoke to me on an emotional level. I loved learning about the history and the authors personal aspects on her bisexuality. I feel like this was very informative and interesting.

This book was intriguing but the level of information was for someone who had no background on the subject. As a bi person myself, it wasn’t giving me any new insight.

It starts off slow and kind of dense, but once the action begins, it's hard to resist the story as it drives forward. It reads as a true epic, one that makes you feel the world really has been reshaped as you read it. Would recommend.

Thank you to NetGalley and Abrams Press for an advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review.

Why yes, I would like more bi visibility, please!

Shaw's book on bisexuality shines a light on everything from the etymology of sexualities as a whole and the science behind things like the Kinsey Scale and Klein Grid to the author's personal experiences with her sexual awakening. I would categorize this almost as half memoir and half scientific nonfiction.

The entire book's contents are very well-researched with each chapter ending with a list of references, which is useful because there were some topics I wanted to delve into a bit deeper and it gave me a great starting point. But Shaw includes enough of her own experiences with sexuality and the culture of sexuality.

What I really loved about this book is that it's so inclusive of all sexualities. For every data point regarding bisexuality, there is further research into how that data point connects to or compares to other sexualities. There was a lot in this book about bi erasure and how society views bisexuality. These are things that are SO important and SO overlooked.

Reading this book felt so validating. I can only hope it gets into the hands of people who need to read it the most. Everyone who reads this book stands to learn something, regardless of sexuality and I appreciate that so much. At times the level of thoroughness can get to be a lot, but that only speaks to Shaw's passion about the subject which shines clearly through on each page.

4.5 stars rounded up to 5.

It was so great to see the representation in this book. I would recommend this book to older students who are struggling or questioning their identities. I think that it was a refreshing take on bisexuality and am excited for the book's release!

I remember growing up in a world where people would regularly scoff when they heard someone identifying as bisexual. "That's not real" they'd say, or, "you're just gay and in denial." I'm not personally bi but so many of my friends had to endure these invalidating comments for much of their lives. Books like this go a long way in breaking down the stigma and educating the public. I'm glad it exists.

Loved loved loved this book. Can't wait to own a copy of this book. As a newly figured out Bi woman who is a science nerd, this book feels like it was written personally for me.

Diving into books on LGBTQ+ history can sometimes feel overwhelming. Where do I start? What should I already know? How do I narrow down to my specific interests? This book is incredibly helpful because it answers a lot of those questions for you. I found the text to be accessible, modern, and well-researched. It gives just enough history to orient the reader and provide context without becoming dull. The text also highlights many issues specific to the bi community, which seems difficult to find. Some sections address tough topics, but the author frames them well and the reader is made aware of what’s coming. This is a useful and easy to read text that should be widely read by those inside and outside the bisexual community.

Thanks to NetGalley and Abrams for this eARC

This book was very informative and presented in a way that is easy to digest. I definitely think this is a great book to read for those who are trying to get a better understanding of what bisexuality is and its history.

I thought some parts of this were interesting. Like behaviorally bisexual animals. The author was very focused on identity of bisexuality and seemed to find this more important than behavior or desire which to me is a very western perspective

I found this book very informative! The information in it is so relevant and should be read by anyone who wants to understand bisexuality

I've been fortunate to read an advance copy of Bi by Julia Shaw, and let me tell you, I think everyone needs to read it.

Normally I struggle with non-fiction writing, but that was not at all the case here. The writing is informative and eye opening, at times humorous and filled with personal anecdotes that made it feel like a step above the usual book of this nature.

What I liked most was how eye opening it was, I mean, here I am taking notes on things such as "slut discourse" and "mixed orientation relationships". Things I was aware of peripherally, but didn't really think about until reading this. (Who doesn't love a good thought provoking book?) Heartbreaking moments about asylum seeking bisexuals really give you a pause for thought. We have so far to go! 

Bi belongs on every LGBTQ+ bookshelf as a must read part of our history, the information needs to be shared, and as a community, we need to improve on our recognizing the B in lgBtq, embracing our family and ditching the stigma(s).

As most of you know, I am a huge advocate for books about marginalized groups being in the hands of a the masses, and this definitely checked the boxes for me. So add it to your future #tbr list please!

Extra thanks to #NetGalley for the advance copy of #Bi

I've been fortunate to read an advance copy of Bi by Julia Shaw, and let me tell you, I think everyone needs to read it.

Normally I struggle with non-fiction writing, but that was not at all the case here. The writing is informative and eye opening, at times humorous and filled with personal anecdotes that made it feel like a step above the usual book of this nature.

What I liked most was how eye opening it was, I mean, here I am taking notes on things such as "slut discourse" and "mixed orientation relationships". Things I was aware of peripherally, but didn't really think about until reading this. (Who doesn't love a good thought provoking book?) Heartbreaking moments about asylum seeking bisexuals really give you a pause for thought. We have so far to go! 

Bi belongs on every LGBTQ+ bookshelf as a must read part of our history, the information needs to be shared, and as a community, we need to improve on our recognizing the B in lgBtq, embracing our family and ditching the stigma(s).

As most of you know, I am a huge advocate for books about marginalized groups being in the hands of a the masses, and this definitely checked the boxes for me. So add it to your future #tbr list please!

Extra thanks to #NetGalley for the advance copy of #Bi

I honestly really, really enjoyed this book! I was drawn to this one because the content is relevant to me personally, but hadn't anticipated just how validating it would feel to see so much of myself reflected in this book's contents. I felt seen in a way that I hadn't realized I needed, and I'd very much recommend this one to everybody. I thought it was well-written and not too dry or academic, and the structure very much made intuitive sense. I wouldn't say this is a massive deep-dive, but I think this makes a great overview on Bisexuality and where we're at in present society/how we got there in terms of how it's viewed.

Thank you NetGalley and Abrams Press for the opportunity to enjoy and review this title.
Everyone needs to read this book, despite their sexual orientation. A lot of research went into this book, and it is very thorough. I really enjoyed learning about the history and psycho-social aspects behind bisexuality!