Leave a message

----------------------------
11/18/2007
'Amanda

I finished reading Stone Butch Blues tonight, and I must tell
you that
it was the best thing I have ever read in my life. We were
assigned
this book in my sociology class, and I am so glad I took this
class
just to read your book. I have several family members who are
gay and
lesbian (one female cousin who presents herself as male) so
reading
this really opened my eyes in a way that I have never
experienced
before. I just wanted to tell you that your words are
profound and
extremely moving. I am forever changed because of your work.

Thank you so much
Amanda
----------------------------
11/13/2007
Alexander

Leslie
Being a gay man I had always found it more than
difficult to understand the plight of lesbians of all shapes,
sizes, and stone-like qualities. Reading SBB has changed me
in ways I'll never be able to fully understand. It, in some
ways, made me feel closer to a side of the queer community I
so desperately want to embrace and love. Thank you for giving
me the language, tools, love, and respect I needed to go to
these places with you through Jess. Keep writing... I will
definitely keep reading!


~Alex

Oregon
----------------------------
11/7/2007
Christopher

i live in london england from growing up i had always felt
different to everyone else i hated the fact i had long hair
and wasnt allowed to cut it until i was older and then pubity
kicked in and my world was different and still no idea why i
felt so sad i had burried my feelings of the real me and
lived the straight life for most of my life until i watched
boys dont cry and everythign fitted into place a good friend
lent me stone butch blues a few days ago and i have readt it
from the first page to the last it brought tears to my eyes
brught back my own chilhood memorys jess i could relate to so
well i am now living life as a ftm even though i wouldnt
class myself a full trans but i do see me as me and butch i
have only been living now for about 3 years i only wished i
was able to read this wonderful book when i was at school i
would of understood every word and would know what i was
going through and where my life would go i am going to try
and see if i can get the english goverment to put this book
into the education system for kids out there who are going
through what i had to and for others to open their eyes to
more diversty to life than their own so i am so grateful to
leslie for writting this from your heart i intend to read it
again too as i was so hooked and didnt want it to end so a
huge thank you and please dont stop ever

----------------------------
10/23/2007
kate


Hi Leslie,

I'm writing to tell you that, sometimes when I can't find the
inspiration to write creatively (especially when there's a
deadline looming), I read "Letter to a Fifties Femme" to
remind myself of the emotions good writing should stir.
I first read Stone Butch Blues shortly after I came out, and
it helped me to identify myself, with kindness, as femme.
Thank You. and many thanks to your partner- who I'm sure does
an immense amount of nourishing, if invisible, work.

----------------------------
10/21/2007
Sage


Thank you for your writings! i just finished reading Stone
Butch Blues, I read it in 2 days and I am sad that it is
over. Will you be writing a sequel to it?

I just wanted to tell you that, as a young femme, you have
given me insight through your readings. I know every
butch/daddy/ftm/genderqueer are all different, but I am glad
to of read this book because it helps me understand not only
struggles before my time, but what is going on in their
minds.

I hope that your book has inspired many to be more open about
their feelings.

Thank you for helping to pave the way for my generation. I
know that everyone involved and living during that time
period has saved many lives today.

~Blessed Be, may You alwasy be happy.

I look forward to reading more!

~ Sage

----------------------------
10/19/2007
Ariel

I am taking a class with Professor Kent at Williams College
(to whom I hear rumors that you are related, though I haven't
had the guts to verify this), and also just read Stone Butch
Blues (not for the class.) Thank you for your introduction to
a world and a struggle I really knew nothing about. I just
hit up against my first real personal experience of prejudice
against queerness at my school, and so it has been a very
thoughtful semester for me so far in terms of thinking about
this particular issue that is much bigger than myself.... You
should come speak at Williams again!


----------------------------
10/17/2007
Star


I went to your speaking engagement at Towson University and I
was so moved by listening to your words. I've previously read
Stone Butch Blues, which was sad, yet encouraging. I
definitely agree that it shouldn't be a
separation/segregation between race, class, sexual/gender
identity, etc. when fighting for the rights. It should be
more than Rainbow Solidarity, it should be Human Solidarity.
However, we aren't to that point in time yet (unfortunately),
and I applaud all of the achievements made by and the support
given to all re-/opressed groups by the 'LGBT' activist
community.


----------------------------
10/17/2007
Deen


Dear Leslie,
I've seen you speak twice now. I feel like I have a lot in
common with you: I'm also a writer, I also believe that we
must band together and stand up for each other, I also am
trans, I also have the love of an amazing femme, I also want
to make the world a better place. But sometimes when I see
you speak, I think to myself, "Why don't I write for that
paper?" or "Why haven't I written a novel yet?" or "Why
aren't I doing as much as ze is?" I think I know that I am
not supposed to do it your way, but to find my own way to
make it work. But it's hard. I want to make a difference, and
I have skills, but sometimes I feel lost and ineffectual.

Props to you for doing it. I am trying to figure out how to
do it my way.

----------------------------
10/14/2007
Shannon

We met at MSU a million years ago at a Pride event. Stone
Butch changed my world, and I thank you for being such an
incredibly courageous person!

Identifying as omnigendered (that fun all-encompassing gray
area between F + M genders) I am constantly inspired and awed
by the trans warriors I meet. It isn't easy to live in a
world where people try to force you into one box or another-
-I exercise my right to choose many! Down with gender
dichotomy!

My wonderful spouse loves all of the facets that make me who
I am. It takes strength and courage and I have learned so
much of that from you. Thank you for changing my life and for
making the world a better place. --SMG

----------------------------
10/10/2007
Garret-Michael


you have given me the inspiration i needed for becoming my
true self.thank you.Garrett

----------------------------
10/4/2007
Mir


Leslie,
Reading Stone Book Blues took me from a point in my life were
I felt isolated and unsure about my experiences as a Queer
person, and brought me to a place with history, context,
solidarity, and foward movement.

I'm a college student and last year everything fell apart. I
felt lost and silent. I read your book over the summer break.
When I came back to school, for the first time in my entire
life I found a community . I owe you so much- for teaching me
about myself and teaching me about allyship, for teaching me
how to ask more questions than I ever thought I could.

I know you have probubly hear this one thousand times but
your writing brought me back to life.

----------------------------
10/3/2007
Erica


from what i can tell i'm not the only person who was moved by
Stone Butch Blues, but it never hurts to hear it again.

Never in my life have i been able to read a book and feel sad
and feel pain and feel happy and everything else. i've read
it over and over again, it was amazing.


----------------------------
10/1/2007
T

today i finished reading SBB for the first time. after being
told to read it over the years by a few different close
friends, i finally picked it up only to find i couldn't put
it down. i now see why they had all been so persistant i read
it. it touched me deeply and i thank you for putting SBB out
there for people share with you. you're a hero, leslie.

----------------------------
9/29/2007
Ashley

I just became involved in the GLBT movement one or two years
ago. It didn't take me long to recognize that so many people
who claim to be GLBT activists are actually just GLB or GL. I
was completely ignorant about the trans community until last
February when I went to MBGLTACC 2007--Alphabet Soup in
Minneapolis and saw Loren Cameron. I felt immediately urged
to become a trans advocate and I sought out resources to
learn more. I came across your book "Transgender Warriors"
and I have basically begun a huge campaign on my college
campus, Hastings College in Hastings, NE and we're having the
first ever Transgender Awareness Week starting this October!
Thank you for your book. I was completely stoked to find out
that you are going to be a featured keynote at MBGLTACC this
coming February. I hope I get the chance to meet you. I'm a
huge fan. Thank you for being such an inspiration, Leslie!


----------------------------
9/26/2007
Amy


I have a good friend who is a drag king and has struggled
with gender issues for a very long time. My friend is a
college student and is now doing in depth research on the
topic in the hope of helping others someday. I am ordering
your books and intend to read them (as my friend suggested)
so I can gain a better understanding of her struggle. I thank
you in advance for being a source of inspiration to my
friend; she's found some peace since she began reading and
studying fantastic people like yourself! And thanks as well
for helping those of us who love people who are struggling
with gender issues to be the best support people and allies
we can be!

----------------------------
9/25/2007
Michelle


WOW! I just got done reading Stone Butch Blues and I was
blown away. It was beyond moving, captivating, painful
educational and inspiring. Currently, I've very active in the
LGBTQ community working with youth. Your work helps me better
understand those that I love around me and the female-bodied,
non-gendered identified person that I'm falling in love with.
Thank you for making a difference. Best of everything in
health, happiness and peace.

----------------------------
9/22/2007
Alex


Minnie Bruce Pratt is my professor at Syracuse university and
I was pleasantly surprised to hear that you are the partner
that she speaks so highly of. I read an exerpt of your
writings in Womens Lives and when I did some reasearch to
write a mini-essay on your writing and I stumbled upon that
information I was so exicted that I had the opportunity to
write about your article... which was phenominal by the way.
Minnie Bruce was right... this book is connected to us on a
closer level than I thought.


----------------------------
9/19/2007
Jennifer
na
I am glad to find yet another site dedicated to transfolk of
every stripe. Add me to your mailing list.
I am a pre-op transwoman, living and working openly in South
Carolina (take that for what you probably already know about
the place). I have been in transition for almost 3 years now.
My struggle to be who I really am has been very intense at
times. But it is of course worth it, since I now TRULY am who
I was born to be.
I was blessed in the fact that the corporate ownership of the
place where I work had a policy of NO gender discrimination,
so I was allowed to openly transition on the job. And that
has been horrible at times, enlightening at others.
And since coming out, I have found a wonderful faith
community where I can worship as myself with other GLBT
folks. A safe haven among the sharks I have to swim amongst.
Bless you in your work, and please write.

Peace and light ~
Jennifer


----------------------------
9/18/2007
LGBTFamilyServices.com
Hi Leslie,

As a trans-woman and managing director of an agency here in
San Francisco assisting the transgender, lesbian and queer
community, I have seen many things in my life. I am grateful
to you for the impact you have made. I look forward to seeing
you.

Thank you for the work you do and the way you have been in
the public eye. Only through open discussion, education and
looking inward to self can we understand our own life, and
help the world understand who we are and the positive impact
we make.

… in friendship
Jennie

----------------------------
9/11/2007
M


I just wanted to say that I have never read anything that has
influenced my life as much as Stonebutch Blues. I just wanted
to thank-you for everything you have done for me, even though
you probably doesnt know what that means. Thank-you. I love
you and your work.


----------------------------
9/9/2007
Alima
You are my S/hero and without a doubt made me a better
person. Its been 10 years since I first heard you speak and
you still echo in my heart. mind, and soul ...

----------------------------
9/8/2007
Sherry


Hi Leslie,

I continue to be drawn back to your website. I continue on my
journey not knowing what tomorrow will bring. Fear is holding
me back right now. Fear of losing everything if I transition.
But, I continue to learn and grow each day. You are an
inspiration.

----------------------------
9/5/2007
jack


hey leslie! i remember reading your book stone butch blues
when i was 15 it really helped me understand and not feel so
alone when i was younger..now i'm 23 and tomorrow is t day
for me...i'm excited and can't wait to expierence the
journey...right now i have your book transgender warriors on
my coffee table i enjoy everything you write and do..you have
no idea how much you have done for me and you dont even know
it! keep your head and never stop dancing!


----------------------------
8/23/2007
kyle/karen

myspace
I've been in and out of being transgender my whole life. I
love both of me,but look and feel better when I'm kyle. Is
there any others who feel like both. Love all your books.drag
king dreams-since I think i'm the oldest still preforming
king but don't quote me on that is my current favorite.

-----------------------------
8/22/2007
Rachel

Hi Leslie,

I'm trying to organize trans-centered events for HRC New
York, and I would love to know if you're going to be in the
NYC area anytime soon. I'm an avid student of your work, and
it would be amazing to meet you in person.

Thanks!
Rachel

----------------------------
8/17/2007
Nicole


Hi, Leslie. I tried to send this by e-mail, but I can't tell
whether it went through. I guess you probably know about
this, but I want to send this update just in case because I
don't see a reference to it on your website and we need to
spread the word.


Here's the online petition to the appeals court regarding the
Jersey Four:

http://www.petitiononline.com/theseven/

The most recent updates I've been able to find so far are
here:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/justice4newark4/


Thanks for all you do. Please take care of yourself, and have
a good day.


----------------------------
8/12/2007
Marc T.


I lived as a lesbian for over 20 years. I had seen Stone
Butch Blues on the shelves of Womancrafts in P-town all those
years. Each year I passed it by. I went for the love stories
to feel someone attracted to women. I was not ready for your
story. I could not hear it. It hit too close to home and too
threatening to what I thought my life would be.

It took having kids with my partner for me to see who I
really was. It took reliving my childhood or the threat of
reliving it, to admit who I really am. To know I am not
female. I am on a road to male. It does scare me to read your
book and know I might have to define that land between the
binary. I know I am in between. But will I live on the male
side or fully in between? Will I be in or out? I will be out
to some degree at least always because of my kids. Will I
speak out or stand back or quietly walk?

Your book was crushing and affirming both at the same time. I
do fear the same as Max in ‘drag king dreams’. I know I have
woken up before. Is there more of me to wake up?

Your books make me ask many questions of myself. Like buying
‘drag king dreams’ book at Womancrafts this year and
wondering if there will be a book that applies to me next
year. Will I still be welcome? Where is my home?

Thank you for providing a spring board for my questions. I
wonder where it will be for me. Where will my home be? I know
I will never be the same.

Marc

----------------------------
8/11/2007
Heather


Your book Stone Butch Blues has transformed my life. I relate
to it, it comforts me, I laugh with it. I've been looking for
this book all my life, I am glad I found it. Thank you. Thank
you. Thank you. *Peace to You*

----------------------------
8/9/2007
Ian

Hello Leslie

I haven't gotten around to reading your books, but I am
trying to be a transgender warrior. I didn't realize it
includes those who do drag and don't go the whole way... I am
about to add some video of you to YouTube of your lecture at
the One Gallery in Los Angeles a few years ago. Check YouTube
on Friday.

----------------------------
8/7/2007
John

none
I have never read your works. But nearly everyone I know has
read them.

I am totally male on the inside, female (with a lot of
natural male attributes)outside.

I am not accepted in the B-F/ transgender community nor the
straight community. I have learned to walk my own road.

Good luck to you.
I'm glad your success
is better than mine.

John

----------------------------
7/25/2007
Megan


I've read SBB either five or six times now, as of tonight. I
can't tell you how important that book is to me, though I'm
sure you can understand and hear that a lot. I'm only 17, 18
in September, but I know that I am stone too. I'd do anything
to have a community of people who understand me like Jess
had, but since I don't, your book connects me to an invisible
community, in a way. Thank you so much...I hope I can meet
you one day.

----------------------------
7/24/2007
Nereid

I just read Stone Butch Blues and burst out into tears.
I'm a 20-yr old student in Taiwan, the society we're living
in here is still not friendly enough. Yet we strive and fight
for our rights, for our faith in a better world.
According to Dostoevsky, the impossiblity builds up a stone
wall in front of us, however, keep the faith and someday
we'll break the wall and live liberately. :)


----------------------------
7/17/2007
tiny
tinyjesser@hotmail.com
myspace.com/tinyjesser
stone butch blues has forever changed my life. you are an
inspiration. hopefully ill meet you sometime down this road
of life. until then take care.
cheers friend.

----------------------------
7/16/2007
Peg


Stone Butch Blues blew me away and helped my personal
identity(ies) fall into place - where I have been comfortably
living since. Thank you for this very important story. I've
just started Drag King Dreams. Thanks for the excellent work
you have done and are doing.

----------------------------
7/12/2007
"J"


i have a question for you more than a comment. I've posted a
message on here before.
Be honest i don't know what terms to use to best describe
myself. I guess I'm a younger version of Jess from your book
stone butch blues. I am "legally" and biologically female.
I'm not a man trapped in a woman’s body but trapped in a body
that just somehow doesn't feel quit right. Because I bend
traditional stereotypes of what makes a woman or man and I
often use the term genderqueer... how do you determine which
bathroom to use? I use the men’s room and woman’s room but
mostly men’s room because i fit in so well as a male. I have
often been kicked out of both bathrooms of different
occasions because some think I'm a woman and some think I'm a
man. I can't give anyone a clear label that best describes
me. I ask this in light of a recent event and it did involve
my job. I work at a day care, currently working with school
age kids. We went on a field trip and I had to use the
bathroom and went into the men’s room. The kids saw me in the
men’s room. The recognized my shoes from under the stalls.
Also some of the kids parents went on this field trip and
were also saw me in the bathroom by recognition of my shoes.
The head teacher in charge of this age group and I had a
conversation before the summer began to discuss such things
as, the children will be curious about my gender, they will
ask me what my gender is and also bathroom use while on field
trips. Her and I both agreed to use the woman’s bathroom. I
worry that this will confuse the kids. Most of them,
especially the boys, think I'm a boy and on many occasions
I've heard them argue about my gender. My director was
informed of this "incident" and now my director and
supervisor wish for me to explain to the kids what happened
and either come out to the kids using appropriate terms or
lie and say I am female and accidentally used the wrong
bathroom. What would you do in this situation? I am most
confused. I personally feel like I don't owe anyone an
explanation. To me it doesn't matter which bathroom you use
because they both serve the same purpose. Please write back
because I am most confused and worried that my job and life
are in jeopardy. Thank you, “J”

----------------------------
7/12/2007
Lily


hey :) i first read Stone Butch Blues two years ago when i
was dating a butch woman who was very confused about her
sexuality and gender, saying she felt very much 'stuck'
between female and male, being both and neither. i have since
dated another wo/man who feels the same, and reading SBB has
helped me (and them) so much to understand a little more of
how they feel.
i love this book, and intend to read more your work for so
many reasons - the way you write, the things you write about.
the ways SBB touched me as i read it (over and over!) has
made me want to read more and more of your writing!
i have told so many of my lesbian friends about SBB, as i
feel that any woman who gets the 'which bathroom' dilema and
the 'are you a boy or a girl' question all the time, as i and
many of my friends have, should read SBB to learn so much
more about ourselves and the culture we live in. its such a
powerful book. thankyou for giving it to us.
Lily xx
----------------------------
7/12/2007
Annette


Leslie, first I want to say how sorry I am for the treatment
of our society in which we have created. Second, I would like
to tell you Thank you for allowing me into a world that I
knew little about. I commend you for your courage and
bringing us to where we are today. Your book was very moving
to me for I have lived with a butch and have struggled with
him to embrace who he is. I hope for our future children that
they can continue where so many have brought us to. I was
very upset to have completed your book, I felt that I have
gained and lost all at one time a very dear friend. My your
life continue on to all the happiness in which you deserve.

----------------------------

7/10/2007
Liz


I just want to tell you that "Stone Butch Blues" is one of
the best novels I have ever put my hands on. I'm reading it
now for the second time. It's just crazy how this book gets
you sucked into the story line, one moment you’re laughing
and the other in tears.

I am a femme, in a relationship with a butch that I love
dearly. I cant even begin to imagine what it must have been
like years ago before I was even born (1980's). Even today,
we have to face a society who thinks we should be ashamed of
our selves, and full of ignorance.

Thank you so much Leslie for this wonderful, and moving piece
of work!

----------------------------
7/8/2007
Andrea


I am not transgendered nor have I ever dated a transgendered
person but I did read Stone Butch Blues. I am from the
Buffalo area and your story touched my heart on so many
different levels. Thank you for being brave in your fight to
be you. You are a beautiful example of what believing and
loving yourself is.

----------------------------
7/7/2007
Maggie

7.7.2007
Hi there, your book impresed me,the book tuched me...
I wish to talk with you but it will stay just a dream. I wish
you and Minnie Bruce all the best!!! Maggie

Hi, i just read your book "sbb" and it was a incredible
journey. i am eating your book and sometimes i find myself in
it. Thank you and i hope to see you once! I wish you the best


----------------------------
7/3/2007
Judith

Hello, Leslie, My friend Lyn handed me your book while I was
visiting her for four days in early June. She is a woman with
a beard. I am...? We had a great time talking about things
that we hardly ever get to talk about together, inspired by
your amazing book to open up those parts of ourselves to each
other. As we read, we compared our perceptions of each of the
characters (sex, gender preference,identity - who cares?) My
partner and I used SBB in our class at Godard College a few
years back. Thanks for all you do. Your grandchildren are
gorgeous! Judith

----------------------------
7/3/2007
Joe

I have read Stone Butch Blues & Drag King Dreams. I have also
read Minnie Bruce Pratt's book, but I have blanked on the
name. Not one of her books of poetry, but of living and
loving with you. I greatly enjoy yours and Minnie's books.

----------------------------
7/2/2007
Flo


I sent you an email a while back and you replied with hope
and encouragement. I cant describe how much I yearn to read
and hear about trans lives, sexualities and identities that
can sometimes be undermined and discarded.
I am an adolesecent stone butch, I dont identify with either
male or female, when I feel down or ashamed of my own
identity, I pick up one of your books and read a chapter or
two. I've read SBB and TGW-from Joan of Arc to Dennis Rodman
a hundred times and hope to get your others.
Your writing gives me a ray of light when I feel I'm living
in a tunnel. Thankyou.

----------------------------
6/28/2007
Rebecca

I consider myself a transgender ally and I have to say that I
really admire your work. I just got the new novel, can't wait
to read it. I adore Stone Butch Blues and recommend it to
people all the time. I love TransWarriors too. Keep up the
excellent work, and I hope to someday meet you.

----------------------------
6/28/2007
Lauren


I don't understand any of this (yet). I was reading an
article for my Cultural Diversity in Counseling class when I
came across your name. I googled you and found this site
after about a half hour of sorting out rubbish. With each
site, I became more and more confused. Is this a man? A
woman? What does 'transgendered' mean, exactly? I am glad I
kept reading. You seem like a very brave, charismatic person
and I wish you blessings in your pursuit of equality. The
world needs eduacating. I certainly do. Please help us
understand! I think people only fear the unkown. Lauren

----------------------------
6/21/2007
Jasmine

I bought Drag King Dreams yesterady and I can't put it down!
Thanks for such a sincere novel.

----------------------------
6/21/2007
Erin


I read Stone Butch Blues in 5 hours. Thankyou for your
courage, strength of spirit and willingness to open your
heart to the world. Ive passed the book on to everyone I
know!!

----------------------------
6/20/2007
JR

I want to say I have read ur book, Stone Butch Blues. It was
amazing and sad at the beginning. It was so good book! My
partner agree with me. We been chat about sitaution of
transgender and lgb people out there. I am sure we have to
speak out, too. Thanks! Smiles

----------------------------
6/19/2007
Ty


Good day Leslie,

I had read stone butch blues upon recommendation by a woman I
had dated a few years ago. I was moved and liberated. You are
a gift.

Yesterday, I had a chance to see you speak here in Toronto
and had you sign my copy of Trans Liberation. I didn't know
what to expect. And, you delivered an impassioned and
inspiring talk. You are truly an example of the power of
living firmly anchored in the lived experience.

I wish you well and continued success.

Ty
----------------------------
6/3/2007
Theo


Leslie,

your book, Stone Buch Blues, changed my life. I am sure that
plenty of people tell you these types of things, but I had to
be another one. It also has a special place in my heart
because I am from Buffalo, NY =0). So yeah, you book inspired
me not to lie to myself anymore and be comfortable in my own
skin. I am forever greatful.

Respect,
Theo

----------------------------
5/28/2007
Stacy J.


I love your work! Thank you so much for becoming a writer!
Please come to Seattle to speak. There is a huge population
of people here that need enlightenment.

----------------------------
5/27/2007
Michelle Klein


Over the years, reading your work and listening...your eyes
speak volumes. Thank you for continuing to fight. Your books
have reached me, a teacher in small town high school who
fights to support all kids (lgbt or not) who struggle to be
themselves in a world of intolerance& flat out hatred. I am a
tough, optimistic Femme who listens. Sometimes, the only
adult that is on their side. I cried for a long time after
reading Stone Butch Blues, then I got angry and decided that
nobody would be treated that badly, not if I can do anything
about it. No one should have to fight for survival to that
degree. No one. Thank you for fighting for your voice and for
paving a road to understanding from your heart.

-------------------------------
5/22/2007
Staitly

Hi all!
Thank you so much for allowing me the opportunity to visit
this site. I actually fit in this category much more than you
can know.
Bye


-------------------------------
5/22/2007
lily


Hi Leslie, I am a straight married lady of fifty-four who is
an artist,stuggling writer,loves music, and is a Yogi. I also
have what is termed Attention Deficit Disorder which is
neither deficit nor disorder. I consider it mostly an asset.

I have read Stone Butch Blues and I am presently reading
Transgender Warriors.

I am interested in all people and things that are non-
mainstream,set-apart from the so-called norm and teetering on
the brink. I am there. I am a non-mainstream folk artist and
my husband is an artist and lapidary-jeweler. We don't fit
the mold so to speak. We live in a visionary folk art
environment and many come to our wild painted house not just
to buy art but to learn Yoga,ask for help etc. I was once
living in a co-dependent relationship with a mentally ill
husband. I thought I would die there. I survived.

I am not an activist out marching in the street but I am an
activist in the sense that I try to learn and convey info
about transgender, outsider artists, and people who are
misunderstood because of mental illness or ADD or ADHD or
abuse. I collect the waifs and strays of society in a sense.
I am always trying to learn more and more. It is part of my
long spiritual path.

I read the auto-biography of Christine Jorgenson many years
ago and it opened doors in my mind. Also having friends of
different sexual orientation has been an education.

When I found out I had ADD at forty-six years old it was like
coming out of the closet for me. I had spent a lifetime
wondering what was wrong with me and being treated
differently by many. So I can relate to your situation as a
transgender person in that sense. I live as a non-linear
person in a linear world. And people mostly don't get it.
Being on a spiritual path I accept them and forgive. I try to
bring information and a different view by my art,writing and
life.

Thank you so much for your enlightening books. I want to read
more of them. Bless you Leslie. I am glad you are here.

-----------------------------
5/17/2007
michèle

Dear Leslie

I write you with unending respekt...about 10 years ago i was
reading your "stone butch blues", this book was so important
and out of any messures, so i took all these years to contact
you.
i'll "read me" trough your virtual home; i'm very interessted
also to know about your aktivist-experience in these years
now.

thank you

michèle
aids-activst
switzerland

-----------------------------
5/17/2007
Kerry


I need you to know how much your book Stone Butch Blues meant
to me. I am not transgendered, or even a lesbian, but your
book was so powerful and so moving it took all I had within
myself not to cry. Eventually that didn't even work because I
ended up crying all over the pages of your book. In some
weird way I felt like I understood myself better. I have
never suffered the way Jess or any of her friends did, but I
know what it is like to feel like an outsider, albeit on a
much lesser scale. Thank you for your book. I had compassion
before, but now I have a greater understanding to go along
with the compassion. Stay strong. Fight for your rights as a
human being to live a happy, equal and full life. You have
allies in unexpected places :)

------------------------------
5/15/2007
Tari


It's been over a decade since I've read 'Stone Butch
Blues',but I vividly remember the impact it made on me.I was
curious,about transgender issues, and it was a very emotional
and rewarding introduction. introduction. I'm a straight
married very "girly girl" woman, but my husband and
absloutely adore and support our GLBTQ community.
Many Blessings to all of you(Nobody throws a better party)
Tari M. Capitol Hill,Seattle
-------------------------------
5/14/2007
Diana (Vancouver BC)


I saw you talk in Vancouver last year for SFU's Women's
Studies department, and was deeply moved. I thought for many
an hour about the issues you discussed, and the sharing that
followed from the crowd there that night.

I really can't say anything about your writing that would do
it any justice. As both a fellow writer and queer activist,
all I can say is... thank you, and keep doing what you do.

-----------------------------


5/7/2007
Kels S.

I could gush about your book, but by now I'm sure you know it's amazing. I guess I'm no different from any other reader who arrives here, looking for answers to the questions they can't ask.

I used to date a stone butch. Probably that doesn't matter. I messed up with him. But, somewhere along the way, I became...determined to read your book. I thought it would magically answer the questions I had about M. It didn't; it just led me to more questions about myself.

Thank you for writing Stone Butch Blues. I may not know who I am or who he was because of it, but now I know that I should be looking for some answers.

----------------------------------
5/1/2007
Stefano (Bologna/Italy)

Hi Leslie,
I met you and Minnie Bruce when you came to Italy in 2003 -probably you can't remember me, there were so many people...

You signed my copy of Stone Butch Blues and I kept it with me all those years, but never read it. I had to take my time and live my own journey before I could read it (I'm an FtM Transexual -30 years old now).

I felt I had to tell you thanks because I found a different point of view and a different value about being a woman. Still I can't feel to be a woman, but I sometimes feel so different and alone being a gay female-man...

Maybe we'll meet again... see you!
S.A.

-------------------------------
4/27/2007
Rachel

When I was a senior in college I was given your book to read by my professor in a class on Transgendered literature. Now, almost ten years later as I pursue my PhD in communication and work as a Teaching Assistant I have had the opportunity to use your book in my own class. I teach Women and Communication and we recently finished reading Stone Butch Blues, and I am happy to say that it seems the powerful impact it had on me as a student was had by my students as well. Everyone told me they were not only touched by the novel but more informed than before.
Thank you for such an excellent story, and teaching device that I plan to use for years to come!!!

------------------------------
4/23/2007
Gina

Leslie,
I just read your book SBB, and was incredibly moved by your struggle. Although I am a straight woman, I feel that everyone can learn something from this work. It is truly one of the most powerful, passionate pieces I have ever come across, I was driven to tears. Also, my eyes were opened to the plight of transgenders across the board. Keep up the good fight! Thank you so much for giving this book to the world.

----------------------------
4/18/2007
Kelsey

I want to thank you for your novel "Stone Butch Blues." It was an assigned reading for my American History course, and it is probably one of the best books I've ever had to read for any course. My longterm boyfriend is a cross-dresser, and while I've always, always supported and encouraged this side of him since it made him happy and feel more attractive, sometimes I found myself conflicted over it. I don't know why, but it was still there. I can't explain how, but this novel has helped me discover why this was, and I believe it has helped me to accept this part of him more fully. I can never, ever explain what this means to me. But I want to thank you from the depths of my soul for all of your words and actions, to help people become more understanding and less prejudiced. Please don't ever stop.

--------------------------------
4/7/2007
amy

my gay friend gave me your book to read so i could see what really happens and i have to say that your journey in life has touched me you are sucha strong person and have overcome so much. sometimes i bitch about minor detail but then i read ur book and it taught me that there are much more things in life to whine about...your r one of the most strongest ppl that i have ever read about and i wud love the opportunity to meet u one day...much love and appreciation and i hope that u continue to b a mentor not only to the gay community but to pple like me that dont understand that things can always be worse...and life is what u make of it...don't whine all the time of simple stuff...

thank you
amy

---------------------------------
4/3/2007
Aly

Hi Leslie, I just wanted to take a moment and say thank you. Having been born intersex, I know how difficult it can be to live outside the gender dichotomy. Thanks to your courage and efforts, I believe society is slowly coming to realize how detrimental and artificial the dichotomy really is. You have touched so many people, (including me, I loved stone butch blues). Thank you again for fighting the good fight, you are an inspiration.

-----------------------------------
4/2/2007
antoinette

im in the process of reading your book stone butch blues... a friend of mine whose butch gave it to me to read. its very interesting and informative. im addicted to it. im a femme dating a stone butch and its helpful sometimes to get outside info on how u butches think... sometimes ur very hard to read lol but thank you for writing its appreciated.

---------------------------------
3/27/2007
Danielle

Thank you for Stone Butch Blues. It was chosen as a novel by the class for one of my college courses (Race, Minorities and Discrimination).
It was so eye opening to this straight white girl from the suburbs.
I agree that it should be required reading in education.
I hope to hear you speak some time.

Thank you very much.

------------------------------------
3/27/2007
Kris

I picked up SBB once again. I read it atleast once a year. I will begin yet another journey I find myself in each time I read it. And I learn more and more about myself each time. Big Inspiration, even at my young age!


------------------------------------------
3/25/2007
Lynley / Germany

Dear Leslie,
my butch and I got 2 issues of your "Drag King Dreams" with your signature, and are so very happy with it. And even though my English is very bad I've read it in two nights. Unfortunately, your german publisher of SBB (Krug und Schadenberg) let me know, that they won't translate DKD into german. This is very sad, because my butch can not read English books at all, and SBB changed hir life and s/he waited for that translation so badly. Also we regret that german television do not send any feature about you or your work.

Thank you for everything you are for us, and please excuse my bad English,

Lyn (femme)

------------------------------------------
3/25/2007
Christine

hi! i've just read your book, stone butch blues. i really like it as it explored about the world i didn't know and now learned that there's really cruelty going on here(not just war or poverty). i pray that things would get better for all of us. keep up the good work, leslie! by the way, i love the way how butches care, respect and love femmes...

------------------------------------------
3/25/2007
Jazz

You are the truth and strength we all seek.

----------------------------------------------
3/25/2007
Heather

Thank you for sharing your work with society and creating the variety of texts that have inspired so many. Stone Butch Blues truly helped me connect with my partner of 3 years on a deeper level, who has been battling with zer own identity. Your work has educated this femme who thought she was so open minded before, and now knows that the work must continue. Thank you again.

------------------------------------------
3/21/2007
rebecca

I am in the middle of reading 'Stone Butch Blues' and it has blown me away. I'm a midaged MTF who hasn't yet started treatment and your book has removed the few doubts I had that I am doing the right thing. I feel sad about some of the crap you had to go through as a young person, but I'm happy that you survived it. Thank you. Your strength is a gift to us all.

-----------------------------------------
3/7/2007
Amber

I just finished reading SBB and I have to say it is one of my
favorite books I have read. Not only as a straight female but as a
human being it was very hard for me to read at times. I had no
idea that society had the ability to be this cruel and isolating
not only that but basically barbaric and torturous. I have never
even come close to having to live with that sort of isolation and
discrimination and hatred as what occured in this novel. This book
should be required reading for all students in High School and
College. This book taught me that I have gone through my whole
life having no idea what truly occured in society and individualy
to this community of people. I LOVE this book. Leslie, you are a
true inspiration to humanity for writing this novel and the
activism work that you do.
-------------------------------

3/3/07
calandra

Hey, Thank you. I recently read SBB and will eagerly read
everything else you have had published that I can get my hands on.
I am a 52-yr old femme who is honoured to have had my life touched
by your writing.
-----------------------------------

3/1/07
Rayna P

I just listened to part of your lecture from Simon Fraser
University on my local community radio station here in Humboldt
County Ca.I was very inspired by your call for ALL those who are
oppressed to stand together and stop segrgation amongst ourselves.
This has been a longstanding philosophy for myself personally that
I find difficult to implement even within the small, isolated
community I live in. My family and I are moving to the
Philadelphia area this summer where I'm intending to get very
involved in Human rights issues on many different levels. I'm a
young mother of four boys and have raised them on my own to a
large degree. It is my number one goal to raise four compassionate
humans who will fight the good fight with love and respect for
people of all ethnic, religious, and sexual orientations at home
and around the world. Thank you for all you do for the global
community. I'll keep my eyes wide open for you when we reach the
east coast.
Many blessings, Rayna

--------------------

2/24/07
Lucy

I've just finished reading stone butch blues. Such an eloquently
written and important (hir)story. And, on a more personal level -
finally - a story that expresses my own experience of love,
loneliness and desire - a story which is helping me unlock some
long-held mysteries within myself.

Thankyou.

Lucy

-------------------------------

2/21/07
Ari

I am here because a classmate of mine was severely beaten last
night. It is being investigated as a hate crime. Suddenly the
world seems a shaky place and I don't know what to think or feel.
This website and stone butch blues give me some kind of comfort.
Yes this happens every day. yes it happens here. yes we need to do
something about it. Yes, there are people who are already working
for positive change and there has been suffering and movement for
a very long time. Thank you, Leslie, and thank you to all the
warriors out there.

---------------------------------

2/21/07
Barbara Louise

Thank you for mentioning how Cesar Chavez stood up for Gay people,
when you spoke in Cleveland at Case. I have for many years
supported the farm workers, but hsd not thought of mentioning that
I am Gay, brlireving thst farm workers are more horribly oppressed
than any other group in the U.S.A. Which, I guess, just shows my
personal ignorence of the horrific lives of others not so lucky as
I wa to grow up "middle class" healthy, and white. And of course I
forgot that somw farm workers are gay, and thus doubly or triply
oppressed. Thanks for thr info about Cesar Chavez.

-------------------------------

2/21/07
Erika

I just read Stone Butch Blues and just wanted to let you know how
powerful it was, I was sobbing during some parts and just enjoying
the nature of life at others. I am not a lesbian or transgendered
but this book left a big impact and I am refering it to everyone I
know. I think this speaks to people universally on how ignorant
people can be to a beautiful person.

--------------------------

2/20/07
Tracy D

Hi Leslie I came upon your book Beyond Pink Or Blue by accident. I
was moved by it and also felt vidicated about my own I dentity as
a trans lesbian. I have tried to order your frist two books but
sadly they are out of print here in England. I just want to wish
you all the luck in the world and I hope your voice and all our
voices will reach futher afield. Bless you and thank you for
having the courage to stand.

Hugs
Tracy xx

-----------------------------

2/13/07
marz

I found your book TGW while in the library one day. It saved my
life. I thought I was the only one. Thank you so much.

--------------------------

2/11/07
Audrey R


Dear Leslie: I just finished reading "Stone Butch Blues" and I
cannot tell you how this book affected me. I am a 50 y.o lesbian -
I came out in the mid 70's- right about the Anita Bryant
time...sigh. Though I didn't experience the same horrors
that"Jess" did I could relate to it just like I had lived it. And
I am having issues at this age about how I relate to people and
other emotional issues. This book was like a bolt of lightning and
answered so many questions about how I feel about myself and how I
feel about other people. It was better than any therapy I have
ever had! Thank you thank you thank you!
I have already taken steps to make amends, re-examine
relationships that have withered, re assess these profound
defenses I have, re think the purpose of my life and to realize
that I do have a responsibility to the young gay woman who are now
coming of age. I love the stuff about the Unions too as I am a
trade unionist to the core!
Thank you. If you are ever in Vancouver BC ( or even Seattle)
again- give me a ring- I am about an hour south of the border and
would love to talk to you.. Again; thank you!
Sincerely; Audrey

---------------------------

2/11/07
Karen P

I just now finished reading Drag King Dreams, and read Stone Butch
Blues about a year ago. I just wanted to thank you, Leslie, for
sharing such wonderful and moving words with us readers. Stone
Butch Blues had a dramatic impact on my life and really opened my
eyes to a world that I knew nothing about. Thank you for being a
fighter, and I am here to join you and many others in activism.
Together we all can be a voice and work to end oppression. I hope
to attend one of your speaking engagements in the future. Please
make a stop in Portland, OR if you are on the West Coast. Thank
you, thank you, thank you.

Namaste.

Karen

--------------------------------------

2/7/07
Danica

Dear Leslie,

I am 50 pages into reading Stone Butch Blues and am so moved that
I had to stop and write this message.

Your writing is brilliant and your soul is beautiful. Thank you.

Danica

-----------------------------------

2/3/07
Maryam S

I would like to thank you for sharing your deepest thoughts and
strenght with us.You are truely an inspiration to me and all of
us.There is so much to complement, but so little space.I got
around and read some of Minnie Bruce Pratt poetry, and you are
right, she is very good. I wish you two a long and happy life
together, with love, M.S

-----------------------------------------

2/1/07
Sarah J

Dear Leslie,

I am a small town girl from South Africa. I am just completing my
Honours (4th year) dissertation on Stone Butch Blues! In South
Africa, post-apartheid, we have a more progressive atmosphere, but
there is still do much oppression. At UCT I am trying to increase
the visibility of LGBTI rights and queer studies.

So my thesis is due tomorrow, I have written a lot on your breath
-taking, mind-shifting book, but I have become disillusioned by
all the homophobia and transphobia I'm coming across in my
research. I must write another 4000 words and I thought I'd come
to your site to inspire me. Well it has! Thank you! It's so
amazing to know that there are people out there like you who work
to make a difference.

Thank you again!

Sarah J

---------------------------

1/21/07
Susan R


Wow. A Jersey City mate just like me. And you're so close to my
brother's wife's parents too. I've read all your books. Was
introduced to your book Stone Butch Blues in Dr. Blackmore's class
at NJCU almost 10 years ago and even did an oral presentation in
class on it. Think you're a phemonenal author and can't wait for u
to speak in the area. Hope all is well

------------------------------------------------

1/17/07
emma

dear leslie,

thank you. i just closed stone butch blues and came immediately to
your site in an attempt to keep it from ending and to soak up even
more of your wisdom and passion. your beautiful words of pain and
hope have stirred in me a desire to change this world for the
better that i thought was gone for good. reading ssb has reminded
me why i must fight everyday for justice in this world...and it
has armed me with the heart and strength to take action.

with love and tears,

emma
----------------------------------

1/2/07
Jessica L

I just finished reading Stone Butch Blues and it was instantly one
of my favorite novels. I am a human rights activist and really
admire you for your vigilant fight and your courage. You inspire
me to continue working and being an acting agent in creating peace
and social justice in the world.

-------------------------------------

1/1/07
Rebecca

I picked up Drag King Dreams from the new section at the library-
and couldn't put it down. I can't remember the last book that
touched me so deeply. You moved me. It hurts to imagine anyone
being treated so foreignly, and yet I know it happens too often.
It was a good reminder to open my heart to more people more often.
Thank you.

-------------------------------------

12/31/06
sam

I just finished reading your book for the second time and it still
held me rivted in my chair. thank you

------------------------------

12/26/06
Martha

Leslie—
I don’t even know how to begin—but maybe a simple thank you is a
good start! Thank you for your courage in presenting the truths
that so many people don’t want to see, not only about gender
identity and sexual orientation but the fact that as long as
anyone is oppressed, none of us are free. I identify as a bisexual
woman, and I probably don’t have to tell you about the treatment
many gay men and lesbians dole out to bisexual people. People seem
to want to have someone to identify as the “other” that they can
fight against—even if that person is someone who is in the same
struggle they are—maybe especially if the person is in the same
struggle.

Thank you for telling Jess’s story. It breaks my heart three or
four times and makes me angry on Jess’s behalf much more often
than that, but I love Jess' courage and gentleness and insistence
on being hirself. I read SBB about once or twice a year—have for
the last four, anyway!

Thank you, Leslie, for your work and your courage and your heart.

------------------------------

12/21/06
Gina

I've been meaning to buy Stone Butch Blues but picked up Drag King
Dreams instead. Reading it has put me back into that crucial place
of wanting to create again. It's nice to feel something powerful
come alive inside of you. It's that thing which daily living can
occasionally dampen.

------------------------------------

12/20/06
Leila

Leslie, thank you so much for your book, Stone Butch Blues. My
girlfriend has always talked to me about it, but it wasn't until
this past week that I started to read it. Your book has opened my
eyes to just how fortunate my girlfriend and I are to be living in
today's society. Even though life often seems unfair and
difficult, I can't imagine having gone through the horrible
ordeals that you described in your book. Please never stop
writing!

------------------------------------

12/12/06
Thirza

Hi Leslie, I wanted to thank you for your writings and activism. I
first read Stone Butch Blues in high school and I continue to read
it twice a year (I'm 28 now). It was really important for me to
read about lived experiences from that time period, and also to
get an understanding and appreciation for the history of the
butch-femme community. I'm a Cree butch dyke and sometimes a femme
fag depending on what cutie is around. I came out in high school
in the Canadian prairies, and had my first high femme lover in
grade eleven. It was pretty difficult, I think we could have had a
totally sweet romance except for the fact that homophobia
restricted us from just having a healthy happy butch femme
relationship. There was a lot of secrecy, a lot of sadness, I was
out and she wasn't. I've gone on to have mostly high femme lovers
and I'm always touched by the beauty you present in our specific
romantic interactions as butches and femmes. I was also touched by
your character Millie and her relationship with Jess, since I too
had a lover who was a sex worker.
I hope you know you've inspired a ton of LGBT youth who are taking
activism into the high schools, I'm starting to meet fifteen year
olds out here in Saskatchewan who are transitioning. Even when I
was a teen homo I was giving speeches on queer liberation in my
english class. People threw cans at me, but I felt like I did my
part. Teachers finally clued in that they had a responsibility to
the queer students they taught, even when they didn't know who
those students were.
My Aunt who's a straight Cree woman also read your book and felt
completely connected and that it was her life story, so on her
behalf I give you more thanks.
Much love from butch to butch.
Thirza

------------------------------------

12/11/06
jessica

leslie, i just finished reading stone butch blues, and really need
to tell you how beautiful it was, and how much it means to me. it
was truely touching in so many different ways! you are a wonderful
writer... i dont know what else to say except that you are a
beautiful and inspiring human being and i cant wait to start drag
king dreams, it just came in the mail today :)

much love!!
xo
------------------------------------

12/9/2006
Lucy

Dear Leslie,
I read your book "Stone Butch Blues" in Taiwan and I cried. Your
writing is very beautiful. Thank you for everything you do.
Sorry, my English is so poor.
Thank you again.
------------------------------------

12/5/06
Julie

I was interested in your response to the NY Times article that
appeared on 12/2/06 that deals with how to support or discourage
variant gender expression in pre-pubescent children.

Also, thanks so much for uniting participants at IDKE Austin
recently.


-----------------------------------

12/05/06
Nick

My partner introduced me to you through your book "Stone Butch
Blues". I then ordered "Drag King Dreams". You are an amazing
writer and person. You have helped me understand myself even
better. Thank you.

---------------------------------

11/25/06
kate

You are beautiful. Thank you.

-----------------------------------

11/13/06
Denise G

I read your book Stone Butch Blues as a class assignment for SWK
331 @ NMSU in Las Cruces, NM. I cried many times through this book
and acknowledge the pain of growth that took place for Jess and
many of the other characters in this book. It opened my eyes to a
different world in a positive way. I truly wished the world we
lived in today was more open to the differences we each have
instead of wanting to crush and destroy those things that make
each one of us unique. I am very glad our instructor had us read
this so that we could recognize without being judgmental that we
are all equal and seek the same things in life; to be loved and to
be happy with who we are. Thank you for taking the voices of many
and putting them into your book. May your life with Minnie Bruce
continue to be filled with love and the support to continue
standing for those things that others cannot and will not look at
or accept. God Bless You Both.

-----------------------------------

11/11/06
"mariah"

Leslie,

I just finished reading DRAG KING Dreams and I sobbed. As I read,
especially the final chapters, I was stunned, asking myself,"Does
this really happen to human beings? Why do we care whether someone
identifies as male, female, butch, femme, queer, straight?" And
then I remember, I grew up in Birmingham, Alabama. Of course, this
kind of thing really happens to other human beings. It has been
happening in this country for centuries.Skin color, nationality,
sexual identity....so much of what makes up who we are....still
such a threat to who we are. I came out as a femme lesbian at the
age of 44 with a gender bending, male identified, butch partner. I
didn't live the Stonewall years like he did.

I did live the race riots and hoses in the streets of Birmingham,
Alabama. I didn't understand then...I don't understand now. I want
to ask the biggots and the "massahs", the politicians and the
preachers, the parents and the teachers "Why does who I love
threaten who you are?"

Leslie, thank you for opening my slowly awakening eyes a bit
wider.

"mariah"

---------------------------------

10/30/06
Maggy

Thank you so much for Stone Butch Blues and sharing this story
with the world. I am reading the book for a class on Stigma at
Indiana University and have been so touched by the story and the
hardships that Jess has struggled through. It's truly made me
think about my own position in the world. Thank you again.

----------------------------------------

10/29/06
flo

hi!
I'm writing from italy. I'm reading your book "stone butch
blues"... finally exist a traslation in italian! I think that your
doing a good work... your fight is our fight! thanks a lot for
what you do, i'm very proud to be like I am. sorry for my
improbably english... ciao

--------------------------------------

10/28/06
Margaret McG

I just finished reading Drag King Dreams and I find myself wishing
there was a Part 2 to this book. What happens to Max or Thor or
even Jasmine? It's hard to let go of a story that you've been
reading for the past several weeks. You fall in love with the
characters and identify with pieces of their lives. I don't know
what it is about your writings, but I do know that I can't get
enough of it. Keep up the good work and for God's sake don't ever
stop writing!

--------------------------------------

10/25/06
Celisa

Stone Butch Blues is changing me, and I am only 50 pages into
it...I had to put it down tonight to process some of the heavy
stuff I was reading. I feel guilty for being a femme, and for
using my identity to pass as straight. I'm learning so much from
this...so much...Thank you for being so brave and for writing.
Thank you for everything!

-------------------------------------

10/24/06
Kascee

Your book Stone Butch Blues inspired me so much. Thank You

--------------------------------------

10/24/06
Angel

I just finished reading your novel about Jess Goldberg and I just
want to congragulate you on a well written book that gives a small
insight to the inner challenges that a lesbian has to go through
and the strength that you and your characters possess are well
words can not describe it!

--------------------------------------

10/19/06
pf piper

dear leslie,

just finished drag king dreams. bravisimo, congratulations! it
reads like a heart, like a heart to heart on a rainy day.
brilliant and brave. wishing you and yours,
energy, love, peace and continued friendship!!!!

--------------------------------------

10/12/06
Aubrey

You rock. I am inspired by your writing, and I, like the rest of
us, need a lot of inspiration and fall too quickly and comfortably
into cynicism. I feel like I know you a little, like a sliver of
moon when the rest remains in shadow. So I want to thank you for
sharing that with me and the world. Thank you for the struggle.
Thank you for believing. Thank you for giving of yourself and
helping me to give more.

--------------------------------------------------
10/11/06

Molly

I just read your interview in Curve, and discovered that Stone Butch Blues is fiction - and all that that implies (ie you couldn't have written it if you hadn't lived a lot of it). Wow. Still such an amazing book - of course! - that changed my life. And I'm still so happy to "meet you" via cyberspace.

Again, thank you!

My very best,

Molly

-------------------------------------------------
10/11/06

Molly

Hi!

Wow. . .I feel so fortunate to be able to post on your site. I had been meaning to read your book, Stone Butch Blues, for quite sometime and I finally did! What an amazing book, Leslie. Thank you so much for writing, and sharing your incredible journey with us. I have to say, too, that I'm so happy you're happy. You're partnered, and an activist, and just have those beautiful, knowing eyes that were referenced in your novel. Yeah for you! There is hope. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Take good care,

Molly (a big ol' lezzie fan!)


------------------------------------------------
10/8/06

Grace Wojck

Tonight you spoke at MSU and I just want to express how deeply moved I was by you. Thank you so very much for speaking on our campus! Thank you for everything you do!

--------------------------------------------------
10/4/06

Kris

Oh my. I have just finished reading STONE BUTCH BLUES less than 30min ago. I have never cried at a book. I've never gotten so involved with the characters (I don't think that's an appropriate word, but it'll do for now) in a book, fiction or non. My partner of 7months told me , right after we met, that this book is a book I should read. Of course, I wondered why. I have never dated a woman, til her, and I'm 27 yrs old. I think she wanted me to see that things can be bad, and I see it now. It doesn't change my mind, but I have a new respect for the people who broke the ice for us. We are young and we have it made. People still discriminate, but I'm not afraid to walk out of work alone. I thank you so much for your book. Your insight. I dont suggest that everyone in the gay/lesbian community read it. I suggest that ANYONE with the skills to read it, do so. Amazed. I was totally stuck in this book, and am still wiping away tears.

--------------------------------------------
9/30/06

Erica Friedman

Wow. I was blown away by your speech at Binghamton University on September 28th. Your poise and objective, intelligent view of the world and how we must unite was very influential. It makes me happy to see that a minority doesn't have to be subjective to one's own movement, but is able to see that everyone has rights and together we are the same in our actions towards gaining equality. You make my desire to make differences in the world even stronger. Thank you so much, you're an inspiration. I wish you and Minnie Bruce well and hope to see you speak again soon!

---------------------------------------------
9/28/06

Josephine Shaffer

Hi! Leslie I like talking about my feminine experience back in 1960 when i was 10 years old i soo wanted 2 be a girl any how i put on my mother's clothes so that i can look more like a girl today i wouldn't wear anything but female clothes i threw out male clothes i had in my coset because i feel a lot better when i can put on a dress and other good stuff. I like being on here because i can read other's story about becoming a female this is my life story i just had 2 share on this website i wanted 2 learn about other males who is like me thanks Leslie. Singned the Supergirl.
-------------------------------------------

9/25/06
Nick

I thank you for sharing your life and giving inspiration to all those who are in need of it. Not everyone knows whats it like to feel alone in their gender, and for those who do, it helps to know we aren't alone. After having to deal with harrassment at school,in washrooms,on the street, its good to be able to go home to Stone Butch Blues or Drag King Dreams and share the pain with the characters in the books.

-----------------------------
9/24/06
reinimat

Marvelous info. I am working with this theme and the information has been most helpful.

-------------------------------
9/21/06
Justin

Hi,

I am just reading your book Drag King Dreams. I think it is pretty awesome. I ready your book Stone Buch Blues when I was first coming out, it helped me a lot. In fact I have read it about 4 times. I am glad you are out there writing.

Justin

---------------------------------
9/20/06
M

Dear Leslie,
I don't know what to write but I know that I sat and became engulfed in SBB for 4 hours straight last night. The intense hunger to witness and finish the book in one sitting. It made me feel so many things including some kind of sadness and disappoint that I -just didn't know- how difficult and painful the lives of transgendered people are. I am in the process of coming out as a lesbian but I have plety of emotional blocks around being able to say that (don't we all..) and to think that such a deep history is hidden from mainstream everything and doesn't honor you and the contributions of the trans community..I'm just sorry but I guess now I can just continue to educate myself and act for justice on everyone's behalf, being an allie for the trans community also. I suppose I enjoy run on sentences...Just, wow. I just didn't know. Thank you. I will do everything I can to take the gifts you have so beautifully handed the world . I have had two close trans friends this past year but because they had already made their transition, we never talked about it. I just...thank you for raising your voice. We will all rise together.

----------------------------------
9/19/06

Will

Five steps away from what I wanted to do, I am reading an analysis of Stone Butch Blues on the internet.

I have dozens of reasons to cry today,and this wasn't supposed to be one of them. But as the references to the novel itself come up, it becomes a rainy day in the pink, flowery bed my parents told me was mine. It is the senior year of highschool, and I am curled with one of two books lent to me by a MtF peer. I am fascinated by a life so like my own. Another in the universe understands! My hatred for my body becomes a quiet static. My desire to die decrescendos from scream to whisper.

It took a long time to believe you when you said, "I didn't save your life; you did." Maybe I still don't. I don't because the whisper has never really left, and sometimes it speaks quite loudly. But before I had LBQTA, before I had the LGBT resource center, before I had internet access without my father checking, before I had trans* friends... I had Stone Butch Blues.

So, today it is raining. I sit in a college I have just dropped out of, making plans for the next one. There is no great hope to finally get out from my parents' rule, no hope of going away to transition to something comfortably masculine. But I am returned to a time and place when times were worse but safer, and understanding was in small, precious oasises like your novel.

Did you save my life? No, I guess not. Did you give me a very powerful tool to help me pull through? Yes.

--------------------------------
9/15/06

Elke H.
Dear Leslie,
I have been reading your book this summer. I am still very,very moved, it has stirred up a lot of my own story and helped to set in in place.I cried and I laughed and I am very thankfull to you. I will pass it around here in Germany! I got a copy of your" drag king dreams" today and cant wait to start reading it. I will let you know after reading it. Big hug and thanks for your courage. Love Elke
 

------------------------------
9/12/06
Mary P

Hi Leslie,

I just wanted to say hi. I enjoyed reading Drag King Dreams this past summer and I wanted to share with you that I found it very moving.

I still have fond memories of your talk at Post University in CT, and talking with you and Minnie Bruce at the International Women's Conference in
NY.
I wish you both the best.

Mary

-----------------------------
9/11/06
J

Leslie,
I read SBB for the first time 2 years ago. I am 26 now. My partner of 5 and a half years bought it for me at a very rough spot in my life and our
relationship. No explanation, just the book on my pillow with a note that said, "You need to read this." I did. I sat down after work that
afternoon and read it in one sitting. I didn't move, I didn't go to te kitchen or even the bathroom, because I felt like I was reading my life. I
was, for a long time, ostracized by my family and some of my friends. I was fired from my job. I have been beaten up, jumped, and worse. I have
been abused by cops and others on the street. I hate public bathrooms and will literally "hold it" until it becomes physically painful. I am
learning to deal with who I am, and I am still learning new things about myself everyday. Drag King Dreams was absolutely wonderful as well. I want
to thank you so much for writing something that people like myself can hang onto and read and see ourselves in. Something that we can look into and
see a future on the other side. You are my hero, and I don't know where I'd be had that book never passed my hands. Thank You Leslie ... and by the
way, if you ever trek through Chicago to speak, you can be sure that you will see my smiling face there alongside my partner! I wish you and Minnie
all the best of blessings life has to offer, because you have been a huge blessing to me and I know to others.
------------------------------
9/7/06
Garcia

Hello Leslie,
You speak about education in your book the TransGender Warriors. I wanted to let you know that California State University, San Bernardino requires
their students take the class "325-Perspectives on Gender." Professor Rodriguez uses your book as our textbook.
It is very enlightening. The word is getting out.
---------------------------
9/5/06
jazz

Dear Leslie,

I am reading your book 'Transliberation: Beyond pink or blue' and I'm very humbled and moved by the fact that despite all your trials and
tribulations, your spirit is not shattered.

You are a very good writer, very emotive (but not over emotional), very straight forward and frankly, your style is quite riveting.

I am sorry that because of your quest to be the true you, and to make your own space, the world (especially your own country!) wishes to whip you
with its conformity.

As of now, I will endeavor to learn to use the gender neutral pronouns (s/he, sie, hir) and encourage others in my circle to do so. Admittedly,
it's a widow's mite in the face of everything that you and your comrades face. The United States ought to be ashamed of itself for victimising
citizens - ordinary people such as yourself who want to live, who want to *be* - and have had to go to extra ordinary lengths to do so.

Thank you very much for writing, for being, for living. I do hope that you actually see full fruition of your labours.

God bless for you and yours,

jazz
----------------------------
9/4/06
Tiko

Your writing is out of the ordinary. It makes me feel what the character's are feeling, like I am right there in the scene or just the book itself!
-----------------------------
9/2/06
Devey M

I just finished reading Stone Butch Blues. I found it enlightening and satisfying. Thank you for having the talent to write and the balls to share
it.
Devey
-----------------------------
8/28/06
Margaret

Dear Leslie,

I just finished reading SBB and I want to thank you for opening my eyes to what I thought I knew but really didn't. I'll admit that I don't
understand the transgender realm all that much, but I'll be darned if I'm going to be closed minded about it. Thank you again for opening my eyes,
my heart, and my mind. Keep up the awesome writing!

---- Margaret
---------------------------
8/22/06
Ceara

My partner recomended your book to me. Stone Butch Blues. As I'm the most naive lesbian to walk the face of the earth.
I just wanted to say thank you for having the courage to tell your story. Your life helped pave the way for me.
A road that was paved with blood, tears, and pain.
-------------------------
8/21/06
allyson

I just finished Stone Butch Blues about 5 minutes ago, and I shed more tears on this book than anything I have ever read. I thoroughly enjoyed
every word of it and I cannot express the gauntlet of emotions that I felt while reading. Thank you. It's people like you that make me want to get
out there and make a difference...
----------------------------------
8/20/06
Stone Butch, Isaac

Thanks for writing SSB, TGW... and for your activism! You give people like me a hope and helps creating livable life.

Me, myself is Stone Butch. That´s my gender. In times when I feel that other people think I´m wired (when for example a lover didn´t understand I´m
stone) and odd it warms me up inside to read your books!

Thank you Leslie!

Stone Butch
Isaac
-----------------------------
8/19/06
Jeremy M

As an ftm and activist (animal rights, environment, human rights, etc., etc.), I can't thank you enough for writing Stone Butch Blues and Drag King
Dreams. It was awesome to finally be able to really relate to the character in a book. Best fiction books I've ever read. Now I'm headed for the
non-fiction stuff. Thanks for all the amazing work you do. Definitely has made an impact on my life.
------------------------------
8/19/06
Dawn

Just finished reading drag king dreams. Great book. You have the soul of a poet.

Question: What is an AG? It's a term I am unfamiliar with.

Thanks for all that you do and all that you are.

Warm wishes,
Dawn
Milwaukee WI USA
---------------------------
8/18/06
Amity

For a few years I raged against the norm and dressed as the man I longed to be. Eventually, I found that the pressure from family, friends and
mostly from the people in my community became too much and I backed down. A friend of mine recently recommended your book, Stone Butch Blues. I
felt so at home in the thoughts and feelings of the characters that it was almost too scary to read. I felt as if someone was reading my mind and
putting it before my very eyes. Living in a small town in Maine, it is incredible difficult to be a lesbian. Being Butch is even harder. Your book
has moved me to rethink what I really want to be and who I want to show to the world. I just ordered your other books and can't wait to read them.
I know they will help me to find the courage to be ME, no matter what others say.

You are a truly beautiful person and I feel lucky to have be graced with the ability to read your words. I hope someday to be lucky enough to
see/meet you in person.

Thank you for all you've done.
----------------------------
8/15/06
Amanda

Well, I just finished reading your book "Stone Butch Blues", it was wonderfull. I past it on to a friend who also hasn't been able to put it down.
It home to me in so manyways. I could see myself as I read this book, and wanted so bad for my partner to read it so maybe she could understand me
a little bit better but we'll see if that happens. Anyways, I wanted to let you know how this booked tuched me I can still play out everything in
my head as if I was watching a movie. I've never been able to say I saw myself so clearly in something else but Jess in this book seems to be able
so say everthing I've ever wanted to say about myself. Where do I belong? But the truth is like Jess I'm stuck in the middle somewhere or nowhere
at all. Thanks for writing this book it has helped me see that it my be hard to not belong to the norm. but what's normal. I may not have had to
live back then when it was so hard to sevive and not had to fisically change myself to find a place, I just kinda made my own place wherever I am,
but I feel what she went through. Once again thank you I just want you to know what a help you are to people.
------------------------
8/15/06
T

I just finished reading Stone Butch Blues and it moved me immensely. Recently I've been searching for information on trans issues and experience so
that I can better understand and feel closer to the trans people that I love. You book was really helpful and inspiring to me. I'm looking forward
to reading your others.
---------------------------
8/14/06
andy

hello leslie, i'm a 27 year old stone butch / neither man nor woman in tg-therapie from austria / europe. sometimes i feel the very need for some
more activism in my country, for some more talking and some more of us who won't be in the closet any longer. when i feel like a lonesome warrior
on our issues, when there's nobody to talk about it, to understand, to approve our emotions, feelings, needs and our rage, i read your words and
feel connected again. i do some writing myself, some song-writing as well, but most of all i do in photography, showing my inner me turned outside
(what means in 'drag'). want to publish that to make everybody see. i feel discrimination every day, on the streets, at work,... that's why i'm
studying politics - to fight against what i learned (and experienced) ;) so here i am, joining your unit... brave, hoping the best and facing the
worst. ally to all of you out there ! we're here and we won't disappeare!

-----------------------------
8/10/06
gail h

Hi Leslie, greetings from Sydney Australia, and from The Feminist Bookshop, where we have been selling your wonderful Stone Butch Blues and
Transgender Warriors for many years. Also have loved Minnie Bruce Pratt's S/He, one of my all time favourite books. Now just noticed on your new
book that you have a web site so thought I would say hello, and thanks for your inspiring courage as a queer activist for many years. The new book
is all set to become a bestseller, and I look forward to reading and selling it. We are a totally trans friendly bookstore here down under. Best wishes.
Gail H
-------------------------
8/8/06
Emilie

I saw you speak in Portland years ago and I'm still in awe of the powerful, inspirational person I saw that day. Since then I have read your books
and recommended them to many others. This is such an overwhelmingly important issue. Thank you for all of the work you do.
--------------------------
8/7/06
jylah

I just tuned into co-op radio(vancouver) a couple of days ago and heard about half of one of your speeches.....I was moved, you are one of the most
relevant modern revolutionaries I have ever heard, keep it up.
---------------------------
7/31/06
"J"

Biologically i am a female who wishes not to be defined and labeled as any one gender. I am a blend of the man and woman with in me. Society labels
my body female, my psyche labels me male. This does not however mean that i deny my biological femininity or desire a "full" sex change. To conform
to any one specific gender whould be like denying any possibility that i am more than just one gender or one sex or one mind. I am a blend or
*balance* of all things. Labels do not define me thus i do not define myself under sex stereotypes or specific labels. Hense the term "Gender-
neutral".

In my biological female form i am a lesbian.
I just recently picked up your book "Stone Butch Blues". I've only gotten through the first chapter and i've been in tears. Its difficult to find
someone or something that understands what you are going through. I discovered that i didn't belong under one sex or gender when i was 16, i am 19
now and still unsure of how to explain my uniqueness or how fully open i can be about it. Part of it is fear, as far as i know there are no legal
protection for those like us, for those that non-confrom to gender/sex sterotypes etc. I don't normally share this with people... I know the
ignorance in peoples heart when they meet someone who is "different". When i was 15 i was raped for being a lesbian. I've known i was gay since i
was 6 years old so homosexuality is nothing new to me but to display my masculinity so openly has me a bit... scared. I don't call myself a man but
in my masculine physique or drag, i pass fairly well, i pass well enough for people to mistaken me for a man and i admitt i get some pleasure out
of being called sir, or have someone shout "Hey man!" I am in a way asking for adivce but i don't know what questions to ask and i'm not sure
exactly what kind of information i'm looking for. I've been shaving my head and wearing only mens clothing for the last two years, be honest i
don't even remember the last time i ever wore a dress. What would be the best way to describe myself to family and co-workers? Are there resources
out there that can explain opposite-sex cross-dressing and what causes these feelings of being a different sex/gender than what are assigned as? I
don't know what kind of a response you are going to give me, you have my permission to say what ever you want and as much as want, even if you have
questions to ask me, like what kind i don't know. Any information you give me would be highly appreciated.
Thank you for your time.

"J"
---------------------------
7/26/06
Sara

I was just 16 years old when Stone Butch Blues came out and it really changed my life! I read it as often as I can and am in the middle of reading
Drag King Dreams. Thumbs up on both books and keep up the good work. Thanks for the inspiration!
------------------------------
7/26/06
deb s

thank you or transgender warriors.finally a history book about me.
------------------------------
7/23/06
Loretta

Hi Leslie:

I really admire and respect you for the many difficult and painful paths that you cleared in your life in order for me and others from the entire
lgbt community to be able to live and enjoy certain freedoms.

I'm reading Blues for the second time and am really in awe and saddened at the same time. I know that all writers fictionalize about what's really
true in their lives, and I'm really sorry that you suffered so much.

I've meet Minnie Bruce Pratt whom I also admire, and once I saw you at the center and said hi to you from across the room, but was too afraid and
felt too intimidated to speak to you.

I'm wanting to join a couple of the organizations that you're affiliated with but I haven't decided yet.

Loretta in Queens, NY
------------------------------
7/23/06
Litha

Dear Leslie,
Thank you. It is hard to come up with the words to share what your book meant to me. I am female and am happy to identify that way. Someone I love
(d)is FTM and your book, "Stone Butch Blues" was helpful to me as we read it together to get a clue about what it is like. There is a very strong
likelyhood that one of my siblings was FTM. She died 18 years ago without knowing just what was so different about herself.
Your courage and tenacity are amazing. Thank you for being willing to share your life so that I could understand more about gender's fluidity and
my society's rigid taboo's around gender. Take care and Thanks again,
Litha in CO
-------------------------------
7/23/06
Chrissy

Hi, I just finished reading your book, Stone Butch Blues, and it was extremely difficult to read the last page, because I didn't want it to end. I
kept prolonging it, until I couldn't take it and I had to finish reading. It was such a beautifully written book, and one of the best books I have
ever read. It was amazing and huge eye-opener. I felt so many emotions, I did cry, because I realized all the pain and suffering 'Jess' had to go
through. I can't relate in any way, except that I feel so lost and confused myself. You are a wonderful and courageous person, more then I'll ever
be, and I love you for getting the message out and letting people know. This book is a MUST read.. Thank you..
-------------------------------
7/22/06
Simone

Leslie,
I just wanted to say thank you for both stone butch blues and drag king dreams. I read the first one last winter in two nightly readings, and I was
so overwhelmed with sadness and anger that I simply couldn't keep from crying. I finished Drag King Dreams yesterday, and again I was on the verge
of tears a few times.
Thank you for illustrating this side of life, thank you for fighting for equal rights, and thank you for making me angry.
Simone (from Germany)
------------------------------
7/21/06
donna mcguigan

hey. i just read your book "stone butch blues", and i have to say it touched me in ways that i never knew existed. if ever you are in the area, i
would love to give you a place to stay and let you know how much you are loved and admired . even though i wish that i could say that things are
much better and everything will be alright, i know differently.
p.s. i forgot to tell you that i live in baltimore and there's a bar called "port in the storm" that you would bsolutely love.
------------------------------
7/19/06
Deborah S

i am just coming out after 25 years.i am a lesbian who loves butches.your book stone butch blues helped to set me free.
THANK YOU
Deb
------------------------------
7/17/06
Robert Schelly

You wrote a great book. I read it straight through.

Robert
------------------------------
7/17/06
Stef

I'm reading Stone Bucht Blues just now....and I raelly think that is one of the most beatiful book I've ever read!!!
Thanks!!!
------------------------------
7/16/06
Cat

Leslie,

I tip my hat to you for helping to educate people about stone butches. People don't always understand us (even our partners don't always understand
us) but your book has definitely gained us some respect. Thank you.

- A Buffalo NY Butch
------------------------------
7/16/06
Sarah Frank

When I looked at the cover of Stone Butch Blues, I couldn't bring myself to pick it up, even upon the request of a friend who thought so highly of
it. I had to look away from your face. It took me (me, 24 yrs, white, heterosex.) months to even glance at it again. Out of complete boredom, I
finally read the first line, and I was hooked. This is incredible writing, but so much more, an incredible account of a life I knew NOTHING about.
I am so thankful for a woman like Leslie to have opened up her struggles to me. I am not ashamed of the reason I never wanted to read the book, but
I am entirely grateful of Leslie that from this point forward I will never think twice, look twice again. This is a real gift to me.
------------------------------
7/10/06
LuLu Manus

I just read Stone Butch Blues. Very insightfull, couldn't put it done until I finished. I also have been influenced in my journey by Transgender
Warriors. Hope to meet you someday.
------------------------------
7/7/06

I recently read Transgender Warriors and Trans Liberation and I have never been so moved and inspired. Thank you so much for helping to change my
view of the world.

Averill
-----------------------------
7/6/06
Chat

Hello Leslie,
My name is Chat, it's the word "Cat" in French.Chinese is "貓." My English is not very well, so you may feel a little difficult to read my message.
I can read English well,but I can't write it well. I'm sorry, I should pay more attention to my English teacher.(^_^)
I bought your book Ston Butch Blues lastweek, and I finished it today. I'm totally impressed by your story. I can't describe my feeling well, but I
still want to tell you,thank you,for all that you do,and all the things you speak up.
I feel myself very lucky to be a lesbian now a day. Because of the hard working you guys did,we can life like a human,love like a human,and esteem
like a human. I lived in Taiwan, a small country beside Mainland China.I am a 22 years old femme.And my sexual orientation did not let me get in
too much trouble. I married with my girlfriend in April. My goal is to do something to help this world except all kind of sex/gender identify. And
one day our people will proud of me,like I'm proud of you now.
Thank you,thank all the people in your date.
Thank you all.Proud of you all.
___________________________________


July 5

Flo
 
I sent you an email a while back and you replied with hope and encouragement. I cant describe how much I yearn to read and hear about trans lives, sexualities and identities that can sometimes be undermined and discarded.
I am an adolesecent stone butch, I dont identify with either male or female, when I feel down or ashamed of my own identity, I pick up one of your books and read a chapter or two. I've read SBB and TGW-from Joan of Arc to Dennis Rodman a hundred times and hope to get your others.
Your writing gives me a ray of light when I feel I'm living in a tunnel. Thankyou.

___________________________________


July 3

I have read Stone Butch Blues & Drag King Dreams. I have also read Minnie Bruce Pratt's book, but I have blanked on the name. Not one of her books of poetry, but of living and loving with you. I greatly enjoy yours and Minnie's books.

Joe

___________________________________ 

July 3

Hello, Leslie, My friend Lyn handed me your book while I was visiting her for four days in early June. She is a woman with a beard. I am...? We had a great time talking about things that we hardly ever get to talk about together, inspired by your amazing book to open up those parts of ourselves to each other. As we read, we compared our perceptions of each of the characters (sex, gender preference,identity - who cares?) My partner and I used SBB in our class at Godard College a few years back. Thanks for all you do. Your grandchildren are gorgeous!

 Judith

 ___________________________________

June 28

I don't understand any of this (yet). I was reading an article for my Cultural Diversity in Counseling class when I came across your name. I googled you and found this site after about a half hour of sorting out rubbish. With each site, I became more and more confused. Is this a man? A woman? What does 'transgendered' mean, exactly? I am glad I kept reading. You seem like a very brave, charismatic person and I wish you blessings in your pursuit of equality. The world needs eduacating. I certainly do. Please help us understand! I think people only fear the unkown.

Lauren

___________________________________

June 28

I consider myself a transgender ally and I have to say that I really admire your work. I just got the new novel, can't wait to read it. I adore Stone Butch Blues and recommend it to people all the time. I love TransWarriors too. Keep up the excellent work, and I hope to someday meet you.

Rebecca
___________________________________
 

June 26

I've read your book,(Stone Butch Blues-Chinese vision)and I really admire your courage.I also appreciated that you wrote down the story,let us treasure what we have now.
Best wish

tiffy

___________________________________

June 22

I read Stone Butch Blues in 5 hours. Thankyou for your courage, strength of spirit and willingness to open your heart to the world. Ive passed the book on to everyone I know!!

Erin

___________________________________

June 20, 2006

www.glbtdeaf.com/forum
I want to say I have read ur book, Stone Butch Blues. It was amazing and sad at the beginning. It was so good book! My partner agree with me. We been chat about sitaution of transgender and lgb people out there. I am sure we have to speak out, too. Thanks! Smiles

JR

___________________________________

June 20, 2006

Good day Leslie,

I had read stone butch blues upon recommendation by a woman I had dated a few years ago. I was moved and liberated. You are a gift.

Yesterday, I had a chance to see you speak here in Toronto and had you sign my copy of Trans Liberation. I didn't know what to expect. And, you delivered an impassioned and inspiring talk. You are truly an example of the power of living firmly anchored in the lived experience.

I wish you well and continued success.

Ty

___________________________________

June 19, 2006

Anne
 
Thank you for your work! I recently read, devoured, both of your novels, and some of your essays/speeches. I cried in two places as I read Stone Butch Blues, once at the fire that took the home you had been painstakingly building, and second at the moment you stepped forward to speak publicly: I was moved by your adversities, your courage, your resilience. The hope you bring as you found yours. Thank you.

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June 17, 2006

Mary
 
Once again, I am reluctant to have to put down and finish a Leslie Feinberg book. While the first grabbed my by my shirt and wouldn't let me go, shoving me into real situations I never wanted me or anyone else to be in, the second slowly walked me through the streets and through the lives of real folks and at the edge of a moving history--a movement of grace and power. Leslie Feinberg, your writing is a glimpse of a beautiful internal world that we all share in so many different ways, a world of longing and belonging, a world of need, a world of loneliness, of wandering and coming home. Thank you Leslie, for the work you do, the words you write, the hope you give, and the strength you provide, for so many who truly do love and admire you.

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June 16, 2006

kaiden

i just read your book "stone butch blues". i found it at slyvia's place, a shelter in new york city for homeless LGBT youth. i am a young "tranny-boy" looking to find where i fit in, and your book really moved me. i read it in 3 hours.

at the Youth Enrichment Services program of "The Center", we have a group called gender x, where we learn and talk about all kinds of different gender expression. we are making a trans-history book, and someone created a page on you. also, when i was working on writing a peice for Artist Activist [a program where an artist in residence helps oyoung queer people put on a show at dance theatre workshop] we were supposed to research queer history in order to help us tell our own personal stories. our director brought in trans-warriors as an example and read us excerpts. it gave me courage to work through my own pain and tell my story on stage in front on hundreds of people. THANK YOU. i dont really know what else to say [im having an estrogen moment] so, THANK YOU.

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June 8, 2006

 Martinique

I want to thank all the transgender men and women, dykes, drag queens, femmes, and everyone else in the spectrum of the lgbt that came before me. I'm 28 and reading stone butch blues for the first time and I am struck about what little I know of the history of my people. I live in a gay area of chicago with my partner where we hold hands, where no one at work bats an eye when I tell them we're engaged, where our parents are helping us with a wedding and I have begun to truly realize through this book the struggles that people took to get us here. I want to sincerely thank you and to acknowledge the profound contribution you have made to my happiness.

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June 1, 2006

Imogen

hi Leslie!

Thankyou so so much for Stone Butch Blues. I spent about an hour curled up with it in the corner of a bookstore, totally engrossed - I've now bought it and am still loving it. Massive, massive respect from me. As a young femme-ish lesbian, I'm surprised at how I've come to consider the lgbt community as "my people" and what an urge I have to learn as much as I can about our collective history. So your book has been so valuable for me, and utterly life-changing.

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I just read Stone Butch Blues and Trans Liberation: Beyond Pink or Blue.
Your thoughts and passion are very inspiring, very moving. Your energy is revolutionary and it shook me the core on so many more levels than just issues of gender and sexuality (I did not anticipate this). I cried, I laughed, I got stomach aches, I got REALLY pissed off....I learned.
Your approach to connecting with the community at large is very effective and I am damn pleased to have you in this world doin' your thing...

Cheers!
AJ

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i read stone butch blues this past weekend..jes reminds me so much of myself..especially the whole deal with the bathrooms ive tryed and tryed to tell ppl about my fear with public restrooms and no one seems to understand...it was good to read something that let me know that im not alone...thank you for such an awsome book...

chris dalton

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Leslie,

I just finished reading 'Drag King Dreams' and wanted to let you know how powerful the book is and how 'real' the writing is. As I read the book there were times that I was laughing, times I was crying, other times I was nervous and at other times, I was feeling victorious. Your voice is so very important in helping to promote tolerance and to diminish oppression. Thank you for your insights, your voice and your courage.

Peg

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I stayed up all night reading and crying and laughing and loving the familiar people in your book - too real to be called characters. I cried for all those lost to the struggle and cheered for the wise warrior elders among us who have survived and continue to lead us - and for the young ones coming along behind us who see a different world. I am praying that they remember - even as we inch toward change - that they remember why things must be changed and why we must never become complacent. I am crying with grief now for the part of myself that has been so complacent - walled off from the struggle, like Max, surviving - and I'm weeping with gratitude for the part of me that can feel the fissure in the wall growing wider - and with gratitude for the part of you that shakes the foundation of my wall with your words.

 Thank you.

Stacy

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i love stone butch blues..it answered a lot of question for me. Thank you

Chris

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Leslie,

I'm writing to say thank you for your work and your spirit. 

I finished reading 'Drag King Dreams' last night.  Your sensitivity to the depths of being human is so rare.  I admire the way you approach the complexity of representing many types of peoples and the honesty and realness of your writing. 

You have not only moved me to tears, you continue to inspire me to live my truth in the face of fear and aloneness.

In Solidarity,
J. Wright

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Leslie,

Drag King Dreams is another page turner. Thanks for all of the hard work. I'm making it my "thank you" gift for the next few months.

Thanks to you for having the courage to follow up Stone Butch Blues with another important document of our times.

Deirdre

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Just finished "drag king dreams"...WOW, Leslie you have done it again! Thank-you so much for your inspiration and courage. I am old school butch, not stone, but very butch just the same. I face shit like Max does everyday even from my queer community because I am in a long term committed relationship with another butch woman and that is still so taboo and against the "norm" I can't wait until the day when this damned world gets over the need to be "normal", I think that with every person who reads one of your books that need diminishes a little more. Thanks and keep up the good fight.

Lee,29 - MDI, Maine

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Was it seven years ago, a book tour, speaking tour ?
In Cincinnati Ohio, I was there with my daughter, she was only 12 and not allowed to read Stone Butch yet, but could read Transgender Warriors…..
I shook your hand.
Asked to kiss you, of course you graciously declined.
I should have clarified.
Kiss your cheek like my mother/father/sister/brother.
A kiss. like a thank you.
And again thank you.
I am lapping up Drag King Dreams like another delicious gift to me.
Pencil in hand, underlining the imagery I'll go back and read again and again.
My gender outlaw angel you are just by virtue of being in this world.
There are no amount of thank you's that would be enough.
The gaps in movement throughout the book are big enough to keep my head inside the story, but not so large that I loose track of the travels.
It's a great work of art.
thank you again ! ! !

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Hi Leslie
I read Stone Butch Blues many years ago and it had a huge impact on how I thought about trans gendered people and Stone Butch dykes. Thank you! I see that you are coming to San Francisco with your new book ( which I can hardly wait to read) I am really looking forward to seeing you and am wondering if you are going to do a reading, or speak, or will it just be a book signing?

Your fan

D.

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Thank you so much for putting "your" story out th