Intimate Strangers

Family, love, friendship, acceptance—none of these pillars of happiness are certainties for LGBTQ+ people. Yet, despite social and legal conventions, the fifteen writers collected here from eastern Asia and beyond have built lives of fulfillment and joy. Intimate Strangers showcases the nonfiction work of writers living life on their own authentic terms. By turns experimental, nostalgic, provocative, and poignant, these stories—bringing to life devoted daughters; boys coming of age; a transgender woman; and gay, queer, and bi parents — are unified not only by their excellence but also by the risks the writers take. Together they form a rich community of voices that reflects the diversity of LGBTQ+ life across the Asia - Pacific region today.