Mississippi Sissy by Kevin Sessums

Mississippi Sissy by Kevin Sessums

In this stunning and unforgettable New York Times bestselling memoir, acclaimed journalist Kevin Sessums brings to life his tumultuous childhood as a self-aware gay boy growing up in Forest, Mississippi, during the turbulent 1960s and '70s. Orphaned by age eight and raised by his grandparents amidst the suffocating constraints of the Deep South, Sessums navigates a world of bewildering family dynamics, tragic losses, burgeoning sexuality, and the constant awareness of being different—a "sissy" in a world that demands conformity. With searing honesty, lyrical prose, and a surprising dose of dark humor, Sessums recounts his journey of survival, finding solace in the kindness of the family maid, the magic of books and movies, and encounters with eccentric local characters (including Eudora Welty). Mississippi Sissy is a raw, courageous, and ultimately inspiring story about claiming one's identity, finding belonging against the odds, and turning hardship into a testament of resilience.

Why You’ll Love This Book

Experience the Lambda Literary Award-winning memoir praised as "hilarious and heartbreaking" (Carole Radziwill) and "utterly compelling" (People). Kevin Sessums tells his story with unflinching honesty and remarkable grace, painting a vivid portrait of the Deep South and the challenging journey of self-discovery. If you appreciate powerful, deeply personal memoirs about overcoming adversity, finding your voice, and the complexities of identity, particularly within the LGBTQ+ and Southern experience, Mississippi Sissy is a must-read.