Hello Cruel World: 101 Alternatives to Suicide for Teens, Freaks, and Other Outlaws

I own a bookstore and it’s very at-risk teen friendly. I have sold this books over 10 times in a month! Outstanding for teen support during dark times.

I don't know if it's boorish to predicate a review with my own trans status, but hey, I am if it matters. Seriously, I love Kate Bornstein because she tells us exactly what we need to hear - we are human, we suffer, we do not deserve to be punished (unless that's what we want). I use all Kate's books not just for myself, but to point other people in my life toward as a gender primer and affirmation. She's an easy, interesting and heartfelt author who shares the secrets so many of us are too afraid to admit are our own. This is an essential reader.

I'm not a teen, but I am a long-time freak in the middle of what I sincerely hope is the worst set of circumstances I will face in my life. I am losing someone I love more than just about anything to a very slow and painful disease. I haven't felt hope in nine months. This book gave me hope.

At a recent benefit at Bluestockings Bookstore, Kate handed out "GET OUT OF HELL FREE CARDS" where she promised to negotiate with God on our behalf and accept any punishment inflicted on us (even going to hell in our place) for taking the advice she lists in "101 Alternatives to Suicide for Teens, Freaks, and Other Outlaws," which encourages us to save our lives by whatever means necessary. Amung her 101 alternatives to suicide she lists: cutting, starving yourself, taking drugs, and finding the love of your life. All of which she lists with an indication of hearts or skulls the effectiveness of each technigue. Although I did not take any of her suggestions, upon finishing the book I was no longer as suicidal...maybe because I felt like she would accept me no matter how messed up (or un-acceptable) I am and this made me feel better. Every High School Library Should Carry This Book!

Kate first shook up my life in 1994 with her mind-blowing "Gender Outlaw"...12 years ago, she totally reframed the way we can (and should) look at gender--not an easy subject to grapple with. NOW she's taken on an even MORE complex issue and made it accessible to mere mortals! Kate's paid some serious dues and it shows in this book. Her *life* experience shows me that things can get pretty bad, but that we can make them better, and even make them wonderful. Her take on how to NOT off yourself is so enlightening, and fun...and PRACTICAL too. Life's more enjoyable because she's written this book and has shared it with the world. Thanks to "Hello, Cruel World", I can now moisturize *while* watch the panda cams..(Read the book and you'll get it).. If you have no other reasons to stay alive, order this book today...It'll be worth the wait!