Our November Book Club will be our final meeting in 2023. We're meeting in person to discuss TWO novels this month: "Horse Barbie" by Geena Rocero and "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" by Taylor Jenkins Reid. Whether you've read one or both, join us at the LGBT Center in Chelsea to discuss both of these great novels. Grab your copy of "Horse Barbie" and "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" and join us on Tuesday, November 14, at 6:30pm ET at the LGBT Center for our final riveting discussion of 2023!
Register to Attend
We’re again meeting in person at the LGBT Center in Manhattan. Registration is free so please let us know you’re joining!
About “Horse Barbie”
As a young femme in 1990s Manila, Geena Rocero heard, “Bakla, bakla!,” a taunt aimed at her feminine sway. Eventually, she found her place in trans pageants, the Philippines’ informal national sport. When competitors mocked her as a "horse barbie" due to her statuesque physique, tumbling hair, long neck, and dark skin, she leaned into the epithet and by seventeen was the Philippines’ highest-earning trans pageant queen. A year later, Geena moved to the United States where she could change her name and gender marker on her documents. But legal recognition didn't mean safety—to survive, Geena went stealth and hid her trans identity, gaining one type of freedom at the expense of another. For a while, it worked. She became an in-demand model. But as her star rose, her sense of self eroded. She craved acceptance as her authentic self yet had to remain vigilant to protect her dream career. The high-stakes double life finally forced Geena to ask herself if she wanted to reclaim the power of Horse Barbie once and for all: radiant, head held high, and unabashedly herself.
Geena Rocero is a trailblazing Filipina-American transgender model, actress, and transgender rights advocate. Born in Manila, Philippines, Geena's early experiences of gender identity led her to embrace the world of trans pageants, where she quickly rose to prominence as the highest-earning trans pageant queen in the Philippines. Her journey continued as she moved to the United States to pursue her dreams and secure legal recognition of her gender identity. Geena's career as a sought-after model and actress soared, but she grappled with the complexities of living a double life. Today, Geena Rocero is a prominent advocate for transgender rights, using her platform to raise awareness, promote acceptance, and empower transgender individuals worldwide. Her memoir, "Horse Barbie," is a powerful testament to her remarkable journey of self-discovery and resilience.
About “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo”
"The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" by Taylor Jenkins Reid is a captivating exploration of the life and secrets of Hollywood icon Evelyn Hugo. In this page-turning novel, Evelyn, an enigmatic and reclusive movie star, reveals her tumultuous journey through seven marriages, each shrouded in scandal and intrigue. As she entrusts her life story to an unknown journalist named Monique, the truth behind her carefully crafted image unfolds, shedding light on love, ambition, identity, and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of fame. Seamlessly blending glamour, passion, and complex characters, this narrative is a gripping tale of self-discovery, resilience, and the enduring power of love, making it a must-read for anyone seeking a rich and emotionally charged story.
Taylor Jenkins Reid is a renowned author celebrated for her compelling storytelling and masterful character development. With a unique ability to delve into the intricacies of human emotions, she has earned a dedicated readership worldwide. Jenkins Reid's impressive body of work includes bestsellers such as "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo," "Daisy Jones & The Six," and "Malibu Rising," all of which have captivated readers with their evocative narratives and unforgettable characters. Known for her exceptional talent in crafting immersive historical and contemporary fiction, Taylor Jenkins Reid continues to leave an indelible mark on the literary world, offering stories that resonate deeply and linger in the hearts of her audience.
About Book Club
The Build Out Alliance book club brings members of our community together, from avid reader to short story dabbler, around many LGBTQ+ voices captured by the written word. Our meetings include open and honest conversations about each book, where we welcome all critiques and opinions. Many of these books are an opportunity to educate ourselves about queer history and identity, often linked to some of the most pressing issues we face today. Book Club's range of selections intentionally promote insight into a wide spectrum of topics, identities, and stories within the LGBTQ+ community.