Now working as a freelance illustrator, Rebecca Burgess advocates not only for understanding of asexuality, but also for understanding of autistic people. Even if these panels depict things about asexuality you already know, Burgess’ enthusiasm for the material is infectious. These include defining asexuality, explaining the difference between sexual attraction and romantic attraction, the different identities/labels under the asexual umbrella, common misconceptions about asexuals and their unique relationships to sex, and the lack of representation in the media.

Burgess’ artistic style tends towards youthful, expressive faces, but their details and settings sometimes feel like an afterthought.Īt the end of each chapter, Burgess devotes a page or two to clear explanations of different facets of asexuality. It’s hard not to root for Rebecca and to want them to be happy. The younger Rebecca’s journey of self-discovery is a largely internal one, and Burgess’ illustrations skillfully highlight Rebecca’s expressive face. While their language lacks subtlety, Burgess’ passionate account of their own experiences, as well as their attempts to educate about asexuality and advocate for asexual representation won me over. With a narrative style that is frank and no frills, Burgess’ book could, and frankly should, be recommended to older teenage and young adult audiences. I do want to spend some time talking about what it is this memoir offers though, as well as its intended audience. It feels in poor taste to give a star rating to such an intensely personal memoir, and especially one that is both written and illustrated by the subject. Over time, Burgess, who uses they/them pronouns, comes to understand and embrace their identity as an asexual person.Īs a settled asexual woman in her thirties, personally I found How to Be Ace too didactic to be satisfying, but it’s an important resource that will appeal both to those looking to learn about asexuality and to younger readers questioning whether or not they belong on the asexual spectrum. How to Be Ace: A Memoir of Growing Up Asexual by Rebecca BurgessĪn intimate journey through author/illustrator Rebecca Burgess’ childhood, adolescence, and young adulthood, How to Be Ace explores Burgess’ attempts to navigate a sex-obsessed culture and fit in with their peers.

How to be ace rebecca burgess