Terry Miller Knihy

In 2010, Dan Savage and his partner, Terry Miller, uttered three words that would give rise to a global movement focused on empowerment of LGBTQ+ youth — it gets better Growing up isn't easy. Many young people face daily tormenting and bullying, and this is especially true for LGBTQ kids and teens. In response to a number of tragic suicides by LGBTQ students, syndicated columnist and author Dan Savage uploaded a video to YouTube with his partner, Terry Miller. Speaking openly about the bullying they suffered, and how they both went on to lead rewarding adult lives, their video launched the It Gets Better Project YouTube channel and initiated a worldwide phenomenon. It Gets Better is a collection of original essays and expanded testimonials written to teens from celebrities, political leaders, and everyday people, because while many LGBTQ teens can't see a positive future for themselves, we can.

Set against the backdrop of a stoic upbringing in 1940s and 50s America, the narrative explores the struggle with emotional repression, particularly in men. The author's poignant recollections highlight the societal expectation that "grown men don't cry," leading to a profound internal conflict during his childhood. Through personal anecdotes, the memoir reflects on life's challenges and the subsequent growth that emerges from them. Now residing in Texas, the author shares his journey of overcoming these obstacles, fostering spiritual strength, and embracing emotional expression.

Set against the backdrop of custom hot rod cars and drag racing, this story delves into the complexities of life, showcasing the struggles of families and friends facing false arrests, loss, and the challenge of moving on. It explores themes of rivalry, greed, and the journey towards redemption, highlighting the bonds formed between fathers and sons and the reconciliation of estranged brothers. Amidst the racing culture, characters discover faith, justice, and the transformative power of love, ultimately learning to live for God.

Set against the backdrop of 18th and 19th-century Southampton County, the book explores the complex social fabric shaped by Native Americans, whites, free blacks, and slaves within a cotton and peanut plantation economy. Key historical events, such as the 1818 cotton crop devastation and Nat Turner's 1831 insurrection, significantly influenced the region's culture and U.S. domestic policy. This pictorial history uniquely highlights the county's diverse communities from the late 19th to early 20th centuries, offering a comprehensive visual narrative of its past.