Special Topics in Being a Human: A Queer and Tender Guide to Things I've Learned the Hard Way about Caring for People, Including Myself

by S. Bear Bergman

Book Overview

As an author, educator, and public speaker, S. Bear Bergman has documented his experience as, among other things, a trans parent, with wit and aplomb. He also writes the advice column "Ask Bear," in which he answers crucial questions about how best to make our collective way through the world.

Featuring disarming illustrations by Saul Freedman-Lawson, Special Topics in Being a Human elaborates on "Asking Bear"'s premise: a gentle, witty, and insightful book of practical advice for the modern age. It offers Dad advice and Jewish bubbe wisdom, all filtered through a queer lens, to help you navigate some of the complexities of life--from how to make big decisions or make a good apology, to how to get someone's new name and pronouns right as quickly as possible, to how to gracefully navigate a breakup. With warmth and candor, Special Topics in Being a Human calls out social inequities and injustices in traditional advice-giving, validates your feelings, asks a lot of questions, and tries to help you be your best possible self with kindness, compassion, and humor.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1551528541
• ISBN13: 9781551528540
• Release Date: October 2021
• Publisher: Arsenal Pulp Press
• Length: 256 Pages
• Weight: 1.52 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 6.9" x 9.9"

Customer Reviews

One of the loveliest and kindest books I’ve read this year.

This is a beautifully illustrated graphic novel all about wisdom and kindness. It centers empathy and compassion for yourself and others. I can see myself turning to this book in my work with coaching and therapy clients as well as sending copies to all of my nearest and dearest. It’s like picking up a warm hug. Highly recommend.