Bi: Notes for a Bisexual Revolution

This is an excellent resource that deals with bisexuality not as some kind of hybrid identity, but as a distinct orientation (!!!) and challenges the notion that bisexuality reinforces the gender binary. Eisner articulates notions of biphobia and monosexism in a way I have not previously encountered — I cannot recommend this book enough. Recommended By Britney T., Powells.com

Depicted as duplicitous, traitorous, and promiscuous, bisexuality has long been suspected, marginalized, and rejected by both straight and gay communities alike.

Bi takes a long overdue, comprehensive look at bisexual politics—from the issues surrounding biphobia/monosexism, feminism, and transgenderism to the practice of labeling those who identify as bi as either “too bisexual” (promiscuous and incapable of fidelity) or “not bisexual enough” (not actively engaging romantically or sexually with people of at least two different genders). In this forward-thinking and eye-opening book, feminist bisexual and genderqueer activist Shiri Eisner takes readers on a journey through the many aspects of the meanings and politics of bisexuality, specifically highlighting how bisexuality can open up new and exciting ways of challenging social convention.

Informed by feminist, transgender, and queer theory, as well as politics and activism, Bi is a radical manifesto for a group that has been too frequently silenced, erased, and denied—and a starting point from which to launch a bisexual revolution.

“"This is the most innovative and exciting book to be published on bisexuality in many years, and one which will move work in this area forward in many vital ways. Eisner weaves together bisexual theory and activism with related areas in a sophisticated and rigorous manner that enriches both the field of bisexuality and those that are drawn into dialogue with it. In particular, the explorations of racialization and the conversations between bisexual activism and the politics of global conflicts are highly original, thought-provoking, and important. Throughout the book Eisner challenges existing practices, such as biphobia and 'mythbusting of bisexual stereotypes, and puts forward intriguing and valuable alternatives. The book will be helpful far beyond the bisexual movement itself and is a must-read for feminists, LBG&T workers, critical race and queer theorists and activists particularly.” Meg Barker, author of The Bisexuality Report

"Brilliant! I have been waiting twenty years for a book like this. It should be required reading for any person even considering entering the dialogue about where the 'B' fits in the LGBT world. Let the revolution begin." Kyle Schickner, Bi Activist/Filmmaker

"Bi: Notes for a Bisexual Revolution … is a groundbreaking exploration of bisexual politics by a revolutionary thinker.” Publishers Weekly

Informed by feminist, transgender, and queer theory, as well as politics and activism, Bi is a radical manifesto for a group that has been too frequently silenced, erased, and denied—and a starting point from which to launch a bisexual revolution.

Shiri Eisner is a feminist bisexual and genderqueer activist, writer, and researcher who is considered a rising star of the international bisexual community and is quickly gaining reputation. After graduating with honors from Tel Aviv University, Eisner spoke internationally and facilitated workshops at both academic and activist conferences, focusing on bisexual politics, theory, and activism, as well as undertaking an in-depth exploration of current bisexual literature, representation, and research. She is currently pursuing her postgraduate studies while writing this book as the culmination of her reading and research thus far.