The ABCs of LGBT+ is a beginners guide to the LGBTQ community. I found this book on a recommended reading list and it had such high ratings I decided to check it out. ABCs is aimed at both individuals who are questioning their identity and allies looking for better understanding.
Now having read it, I can see why this stands apart from other LGBT introductory texts. A lot of introductions in this genre give you rigid definitions of each identity and leave it at that. Mardell sets this book apart with a much more user friendly format. By devoting the first section of the book to spectrums, Mardell reminds readers that it's rare a person fits perfectly into one category or another. The book also includes anecdotes from dozens of community members describing how they perceive their identities. It really helps to emphasize the variety within communities.
The author also follows through on the "+" in the title. Letters after the Q are typically less visible communities, but they're all represented in this text.
Overall, this seems like a well-written and engaging resource for people looking to better understand LGBTQ identities. It's even filled with cute infographics and illustrations.
Also, since writing this book, Ashley Mardell's name has changed to Ash Hardell. So if you decide to look for more information on this author, be aware that may affect your search. If this book sounds interesting to you, you can find the digital copy available here.