A/S/L by Jeanne Thornton: A Digitally Woven Tapestry of Queer Longing
When I first came across A/S/L by Jeanne Thornton, the combination of ’90s internet culture and the complexities of trans identity was a siren call I couldn’t resist. As someone who navigated their adolescence alongside this digital evolution, I was instantly drawn to a narrative that promised to capture that shimmering blend of nostalgia and the deep ache of yearning—a duo that often defined my own coming-of-age tale. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC of this evocative novel, set to be released by Soho Press on April 1, 2025!
From the very first pages, Thornton’s A/S/L immerses you in the lives of Abraxa, Sash, and Lilith—three once-gender-questioning teens who bonded over crafting an online video game called Saga of the Sorceress. The narrative flits between 1998 and 2016, showcasing how the idyllic world they sought to construct together contrasts starkly with the complexities and estrangements of adulthood. It’s a heartbreaking but beautifully crafted exploration of queer longing, trans survival, and the messy highways we traverse to find acceptance—both from ourselves and from others.
The characters are rich and multilayered. Abraxa’s restless imagination is a force to behold, fiercely holding onto the belief that their game transcended mere pixels—arguably embodying a longing for something that feels real and grounding. Lilith’s struggle to navigate traditional expectations while yearning for wildness is relatable to anyone who feels caught between societal pressures and their true selves. Sash, on the other hand, transforms her yearning for connection into storytelling and the commodity of intimacy in ways that expose the raw vulnerabilities that resonate in all of us.
What’s particularly striking about Thornton’s writing style is its oscillation between dreamlike prose and raw, jarring moments—mirroring the tumult of navigating trans identity in a world often designed to erase it. The narrative’s rhythm occasionally falters; some chapters feel as though they linger a bit too long, but even in those instances, the emotional core remains fierce and potent. In a world that often demands neat resolutions, Thornton defies our expectations, offering instead the radical notion of rebuilding together—a sentiment that profoundly affected me.
Notable themes like the intertwining of digital worlds and self-discovery resonate throughout, showcasing video games as forms of queer art. The characters’ journey of creative defiance against societal norms is beautifully encapsulated in their reclaiming of the narratives surrounding their lives. As I read, I found myself reflecting on a quote from the book, one that lingers in my mind: “In our world, magic isn’t just fantasy; it demands real bravery.”
For readers cherished by introspective tales of trans identity, those captivated by the quirky fabric of digital subcultures, or anyone who has ever crafted a personal world amidst chaos—A/S/L will speak to you. It’s a poignant ode to queer friendship, creativity as a survival tool, and the struggle to find one’s place in a world rife with barriers.
On a personal note, this reading experience reinvigorated my belief in storytelling as a powerful form of resistance. A/S/L is not just a book; it is a reminder that our journeys, fraught as they might be, are worthy of being shared and celebrated. Whether you’re nostalgic for the late ’90s or seeking deeper understanding within queer narratives, I wholeheartedly recommend diving into Thornton’s vivid world. 🌈