Glitter and Concrete - by Elyssa Maxx Goodman (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Coming soon! Glitter and Concrete by Elyssa Maxx Goodman will be available Feb 16, 2027.

Review Quotes

"Every lawmaker who wants to ban drag should read this history... Convincing and heartwarming."--Washington Post

"[T]here's possibly never been a better time for Goodman's highly researched history of drag as a vital form of self-expression for the expansive LGBTQ+ community in New York City."--Vogue

"A cultural history of the art form's groundbreaking impact in New York City."--Elle

"A vital antidote to the tragedy of queer erasure, serving as a memory, benchmark, and guide to current and future drag lovers... this book demands we take [drag] seriously as a cultural art form that responds to, critiques, and is a crucial part of American history."--Hyperallergic

"Filled with vibrant character portraits and lesser-known histories, this is a comprehensive guide to New York's long tradition of drag performance and queer activism."--Publishers Weekly STARRED review

"Throughout this lively and celebratory book, Goodman portrays the dynamic forces of a fearless community bound by their love of performance and using 'glamour as a potent force of resistance.' An essential addition to the literature of both drag and queer history."--Kirkus STARRED review

"Goodman parlays her ardor for drag into a uniquely comprehensive, vibrant, and eye-opening history of the art form in New York City. ... Richly enlightening, enthralling, and invaluable."--Booklist STARRED review

"[Goodman's] reverence for the art form shows in her deeply thorough history of NYC's drag scene...vital."--Library Journal STARRED review

"Elyssa Goodman has achieved the near impossible; a history of drag that is as entertaining as it is comprehensive. From Eltinge to RuPaul, all of the great personalities with their triumphs and tragedies are woven into a vivid and vibrant tapestry of the city of New York."--Charles Busch, award-winning playwright and author of Leading Lady: A Memoir of a Most Unusual Boy

"As drag is absurdly under attack by the right wing, along comes this well researched book that celebrates its glittery renown. Elyssa Maxx Goodman lovingly explores drag's trajectory in NYC from 1865 to the present, spanning activism, oppression, flamboyance and Emmy awards. Brava!"--Michael Musto, author and journalist for The Village Voice

"What a gift downtown nightlife fixture Elyssa Maxx Goodman has given us with her glamorous, giddy history! A love letter to New York City past and present, Glitter and Concrete celebrates drag's shimmering potential for community, self-expression, and pure joy."--Ada Calhoun, New York Times bestselling author of St. Marks Is Dead