Looking at Gay and Lesbian Life

Though partly intended as a classroom text, this clear, highly readable, liberal overview of the issues surrounding homosexuality will enlighten the general reader, whether gay or straight. Sections range from ``Gender Role Flexibility'' to ``How to Use a Condom.'' Pinpointing the weaknesses in the divergent theoriesFreudian, hormonal, genetic, etc.as to what ``causes'' homosexuality, the authors plead for an open-minded approach to same-sex relationships. Besides outlining a model for ``coming out,'' they argue that various tolerant Christian stances toward homosexual behavior are possible, all consistent with the New Testament. Other chapters cover homophobic prejudice, gay movement politics, the AIDS crisis, lifestyle, lesbians and gays in literature. Blumenfeld is founder of the National Gay Student Center; Raymond is a board member of the Fenway Community Health Center in Boston. (October)