It's got a black lesbian vampire in it, and the stories cover bits of her life through various eras in America.

I loved this book, and have re-read it. Jewelle Gomez weaves a tale of a Black lesbian vampire, by showing glimpses into her life at different time periods. Born into slavery, she witnesses tremendous cultural change in the US and the world - dealing with racism, sexism, homophobia, and classism. Gilda is an ethical vampire. She avoids killing, and she leaves something positive behind in exchange for the blood she takes. But what I enjoyed most about this book was the cultural observations. This is a must read for any dyke who enjoys a well-told story of strong women, and who is interested in historical change and social movement.

I had the pleasure of hearing Ms. Gomez read from the book at Giovanni's Room bookstore in Philadelphia, many years ago. It was an accident; I happened to come into the store to shop just as she was about to read from her work. I was utterly enthralled, and happily bought the book that day. Since then, I've loaned it to many of my friends, who have all agreed that this is a truly excellent read. ( )

The Gilda Stories, a novel about vampires, but much more....it is a story about longing, living in the past, trying to define oneself by criteria that is inconsistent with the reality of one's existence. Gilda moves though her life, extended through vampirism, searching for a place to call home and wanting a lover who will never leave. Her conflict is her inability to leave her life as a human behind and take on the characteristics of a vampire's life. Gomez's writing is concise and gripping. I enjoyed this novel immensely.

This novel has lesbian themes, although I wouldn't necessarily label it as a lesbian novel. ( )

I actually liked this book although is was a little slow at first. I appreciate that Gomez represents vampires in a sort of different light than they are usually portrayed. You will not find terribly violent, dark, Dracula-type vampires in this novel. One should not pick up this book expecting a ton of action, but rather a beautiful, constant and poetic story. ( )

maybe im not a sci fi fan? i didnt like this book. only finished it b/c i wanted to know where it was going. if you liked this book, please send me a message telling me why... b/c i sho didnt. ( )