Mississippi Sissy by Kevin Sessums

Mississippi Sissy by Kevin Sessums

In 1960s Mississippi, young Kevin Sessums confronts a turbulent childhood shaped by early loss and the stifling confines of a rigid, unforgiving society. Growing up gay in the Deep South, he seeks refuge in literature, movies, and chance encounters with vibrant personalities like Eudora Welty. Orphaned and raised by his grandparents, Sessums explores complex family dynamics while wrestling with his burgeoning sexuality and the ever-present sting of being different. This poignant coming-of-age memoir reveals a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the courageous pursuit of belonging in a world that often feels hostile. Explore themes of LGBTQ+ life in the South, Southern literature, and the power of personal narrative.

Why You’ll Love This Book

This Lambda Literary Award-winning memoir seamlessly blends humor and heartbreak, offering a captivating glimpse into the complexities of Southern life. Sessums's remarkably graceful prose paints a vivid portrait of 1960s Mississippi, capturing both its beauty and its prejudices. Readers seeking stories of self-acceptance and overcoming adversity will find deep resonance within these pages.