Queers in History Volume One of Two (A-K): The Encyclopedia of Historical LGBT+

by Keith Stern, Ian McKellen (Foreword by)

Overview

History. It's more than simply facts about people who lived long ago. It's about you-how you live your life today. Armed with facts, you become the better version of yourself. As you interact with family, friends and others, the lessons of history give you the confidence and ammunition you (or someone you love) will need to deal with misinformation, prejudice and ignorance.

This book is filled with over 1,000 stories of LGBTQ+ figures throughout history-artists, leaders, revolutionaries, thinkers-people who defied expectations and redefined social norms.

With each page turned, you'll feel a spark of pride in their accomplishments, and your own potential. Learn about Alan Turing, the brilliant mathematician who helped break the Nazi codes and essentially shaped modern computing. Audre Lorde, whose poetry gave voice to resistance and empowerment. These aren't just names; they're proof that LGBTQ+ people have always been part of history-creating, changing, thriving.

Identity isn't something to shrink or disguise. These stories prove that. There are a few tales of the shame of those who betrayed their own identity. Most are narratives of triumph. People may admire knowledge, but more than that, they respect authenticity.

History has power-not just to inform, but to transform. Queers In History is more than a collection of stories about past figures; it's a testament to the resilience and brilliance of LGBTQ+ individuals, offering a foundation for self-image and social confidence.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9798349357985
Publisher:	Shoreham House
Publication date:	05/27/2025
Pages:	350
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x 0.73(d)

About the Author

As the author of the landmark 1993 book Queers in History, Stern has been at the forefront of promoting the biographies of LGBTQ+ luminaries, including that of his close personal friend Ian McKellen, who plays a central role throughout the book's second half."-Kirkus ReviewsKeith Stern has been captivating audiences with the life stories of prominent figures for nearly three decades, reaching millions through both print and online platforms. His comprehensive collection of 900 mini-biographies, Queers in History, was published by BenBella Books in 2010 and quickly soared to the top of the Amazon charts. This perennial bestseller originally debuted as an innovative Mac/PC app in 1993. You hold in your hands an updated version with over 1000 stories.Stern is a pioneer in the digital space, having produced some of the most popular biographical websites and social media pages on the Internet. Since 1997, he has collaborated with Sir Ian McKellen on the actor's autobiographical website, McKellen.com. His portfolio includes groundbreaking websites and social media for Sean Astin, Andy Serkis, the late Lynn Redgrave, Spinal Tap, Gods and Monsters, and many other movie stars and films.Beginning his career in the music industry, Stern worked as a musician before spending several years with Warner Bros Records in field promotion, public relations, A&R, and IT. In the 1970s, he was part of the founding days of CBGB, the legendary music venue in Manhattan's Bowery. In 1980, he transformed The Milestone in Charlotte, North Carolina, into a punk rock/new wave music venue that remains a leading music showcase. He produced early concerts for iconic punk/new wave acts including R.E.M., The Ramones, The Go-Go's, Iggy Pop, Bow Wow Wow, and Joan Jett.After his tenure at Warner Bros HQ in Burbank, Stern pursued his passion for computers as an independent consultant. He eventually worked with nearly all the major film and TV studios, implementing cutting-edge email systems and laptops for writers.In 1993, Stern published Queers in History on CD-ROM, one of the first "new media" titles sold through bookstores, achieving worldwide success. This groundbreaking work included biographies of hundreds of historical figures who were gay, lesbian, or bisexual, along with a trivia game called Queeries. A completely revised edition was published by BenBella Books in 2010, which ranked among the best-sellers for months.Stern's historical novel, Freezing Time, based on the life of pi-oneering photographer Eadweard Muybridge, was commissioned for film by actor/director Andy Serkis (The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, Planet of the Apes, Venom: Let There Be Carnage).An accomplished photographer, Stern's work has been featured in The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, The Guardian and other newspapers, as well as several books, including Lonely Planet travel guides.

Renowned actor who has earned more than 70 major acting awards for his work on stage, in films and on television.