Debut novelist and senior advisor to the Library of Congress, Jeffrey Dale Lofton, discusses identity and self-discovery for LGBTQ History Month in October.
Jeffrey Dale Lofton is one of the most intriguing voices I’ve read this year, and I count his debut among my favorites of 2023.
Join us on an inspiring journey as we sit down with Jeffrey Dale Lofton, the talented debut author behind Red Clay Suzie, a fictional memoir that delves into the depths of identity, self-discovery, and the journey of growing up as a gay boy in the Deep South.
In this intimate conversation, Lofton shares his personal experiences that shaped this remarkable narrative, the challenges of navigating his own identity, and the power of storytelling to bridge understanding, especially in the LGBTQ community.
As a senior advisor to the Library of Congress, Lofton brings a unique perspective to literature and history. Be sure to tune in to the second half of our conversation to discover his top book recommendations for LGBTQ History Month.
Don’t miss this week’s bonus book list- The Best Books for LGBTQ History Month!
This new book list includes fiction and nonfiction books on queer history.
Red Clay Suzie Book Synopsis
Nominated for The Center for Fiction 2023 First Novel Prize, this debut novel will resonate with fans of Jeff Zentner.
Told through childlike narration, Philbet is a young boy with a misshapen chest and a heart full of dreams embarking on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance in the rural landscapes of Georgia.
Amidst the backdrop of tomato sandwiches, green milkshakes, and a deep love for cars, he grapples with the challenges of being a gay outsider in a conservative community.
Bullied, misunderstood, and yearning for acceptance, he discovers unexpected sources of strength and solace within his community.
Inspired by Lofton’s true life story, this coming-of-age story will capture your heart.
Meet Jeffrey Dale Lofton
Jeffrey Dale Lofton transitioned from a career in acting to pursue post-graduate studies, earning Master’s degrees in Public Administration & Library and Information Science.
Currently, he serves as a senior advisor at the Library of Congress, indulging in his love for books.
Originally from Warm Springs, Georgia, the author now resides in Washington, DC.
Red Clay Suzie is his debut novel and was longlisted for The Center for Fiction 2023 First Novel Prize.
Celebrate LGBTQ History Month With This Curated Stack
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2023 MomAdvice Fall Reading Guide
The Best Books for LGBT History Month (BONUS BOOK LIST)
Red Clay Suzie by Jeffrey Dale Lofton
In the Wild Light by Jeff Zentner
And I Do Not Forgive You by Amber Sparks
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Call Me by Your Name by Andre Aciman
The Serpent King by Jeff Zentner
The Best Libby App Tips & Tricks
The Honeys by Ryan La Sala
Pete Cross, Audio Book Narrator
The Born This Way Foundation
The Trevor Project
LGBTQ History Month
How to Survive A Plague by David France
My Government Means to Kill Me by Rasheed Newson
Rasheed Newson’t Debut Novel Retells the Early Years of AIDS in New York City
The Other Pandemic by Lynn Curlee
Short Film Starring My Beloved’s Red Bronco by K. Iver
Who is This Grief For?
The Center for Fiction 2023 First Novel Prize Longlist
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