A Field Guide to Gay and Lesbian Chicago

Kathie Bergquist & Robert McDonald
Lake Claremont Press (2006)
ISBN 1893121038
Reviewed by Rhiannon Kelly Fionn for Reader Views (8/06)

“A Field Guide to Gay and Lesbian Chicago” is, by far, the very best travel guide I’ve ever read—and I did read it like a novel; it is that well written.  I only wish it had been published years ago; guess I’ll have to go back to Chicago now.  There will be no arm twisting involved, well, unless it’s February (shiver); after reading this I’m raring to go.

Ms. Bergquist and Mr. McDonald use humor, common sense, honesty, and pure gusto to entertain throughout their divine reference book.  Their candor is amusing and dead on; consider page 114 “We Wish!  Brief descriptions of notable Chicago restaurants we can’t afford”.  This is a perfect example of how well organized and thoughtful this guide is: they really did think of everything.  Everything!  Some of their readers may very well be able to afford that list of eateries but they know most of us can’t and I appreciate the heads up.  In other areas where the authors admitted they didn’t have as great an interest as others might, like shopping, they enlisted the help of friends who ensured nothing was left out.

The book begins with an insightful look into how and why Chicago became the San Francisco of the Midwest in “A Taste of Chicago History, Queer Flavored”.  Don’t skip this chapter; it’s as witty as it is educational.

Though the title clearly indicates the focus of the book will be the delights of “Gayborhoods” and GLBT friendly businesses for the non-straight segments of society, there is so much excellent, practical, and thorough advice for travelers contained within, anyone will benefit.  Besides, it isn’t all gay—they include locations for strait burlesque troupes, too!

The authors, and I’m guessing here judging only on the length of chapter 13, entitled “How About a Cocktail, Darling? GLBT Bars in Chicago”, seem to have had a fantastic time researching their work - which, I am sure, was painstaking and thankless.  Their good time spills onto the page making “A Field Guide to Gay and Lesbian Chicago” a pleasure to read.  It will remain on my bookshelf until I begin planning my next trip to the windy city - and with their encouragement that will be sooner than later.

Make comment on weblog