“Queering Mennonite Literature: Archives, Activism, and the Search for Community“
by Daniel Shank Cruz
Pennsylvania State University Press, 2020, 172 pages

At A Glance: “Queering Mennonite Literature” reveals the significant overlap between queer theory and Mennonite literature, emphasizing their common commitment to challenging societal norms and advocating for social justice.

Overview: In “Queering Mennonite Literature: Archives, Activism, and the Search for Community,” Daniel Shank Cruz examines the intersection of queer theory and Mennonite literature, spotlighting a developing genre that merges these seemingly disparate identities.

Cruz analyzes works by authors like Christina Penner, Wes Funk, and Sofia Samatar, illustrating how queer Mennonite literature champions values such as social justice, creative conflict resolution, and mutual aid. His study advocates for dialogue between queer theory and Mennonite literary criticism, highlighting their shared principles and the potential for enriching both fields.

This critical work not only foregrounds an emergent subfield but also pushes the boundaries of how these academic areas can intersect and inform each other.

Thoughts from Readers: