Jo Becker (1)

Even though I knew about the major events that make up this book, even though I knew the ending before I started - this book was more compelling than any other I've read this year.

The fight for marriage equality is one that I am passionate about. I feel that it is the civil rights movement of my lifetime and I have watched at times in awe at how fast things are changing - and at times in abject frustration at some of the setbacks and deep-seeded hate that is still out there.

Jo Becker provides a behind the scenes look at people whose lives were changed dramatically (several times!) by the battle over Proposition 8 in California and by DOMA in the US. Her writing style is so clear and clean, that at times I forgot that I was reading and I felt like I was truly there - that I was a first-hand observer in the lives of the plaintiffs, lawyers and activists.

It was so interesting to read this in light of where our country is going, how in terms of social progress, the fight for marriage equality is FINALLY moving at a quicker pace. Becker writes in such a way that the reader is able to absorb a great deal of facts, court procedures and history without feeling overwhelmed. Each person has his/her own voice, and the action moves swiftly - causing me a few late nights.

I was fascinated by this book, by this story of people from all sides that came together to force necessary change. It was emotional without being flowery or sappy, it was powerful without being preachy, and above all, it felt fair.

I applaud Jo Becker for this amazing book and hope to see more from her.… (meer)