The fiction that reads like a true story

Music From Another World by Robin Talley

 - by Hailey Carrell
   Queer Collective

Sometimes you read a book, not realizing how important it will become to you. That was my experience reading Music From Another World by Robin Talley.

In 1977 California, two teens become pen pals for a school assignment.

Tammy feels trapped. Between her Christian school, her conservative church, and her religious aunt, who regularly organizes antigay campaigns, she has to hide her true self. The only time she can be honest is in her diary, where she pretends to write to activist Harvey Milk.

That is, until she is paired with Sharon for a school assignment.

Sharon feels like she is always hiding something. In addition to lying to help cover for her closeted gay brother, she also keeps lying to herself about her own questions about queerness. Sharon’s only outlet is in the punk music scene.

As the two continue corresponding, they begin to realize that they can be open with each other in ways they can’t with anyone else. They bond over punk music, the civil rights movement and their stifling realities.

As the antigay movement continues to escalate, the two find themselves at a crossroads. Will they finally be able to stand up for themselves?

This book reads like a true story. The characters feel real, and reading their letters to each other makes you feel like you’re part of the story. It is an incredibly authentic look at the trials of being queer in an ultraconservative home.

Tammy is forced to help with her aunt’s antigay campaigns, despite being queer herself. Her daily life is filled with fear of being outed and what that could mean for her. Meanwhile, Sharon is doing her best to play the role of a good daughter and sister. She is protecting her brother’s secret, while burying her own feelings.

Unfortunately, these are both very relatable queer experiences, as religion is so often used to discriminate against the queer community. As this book is aimed towards young adults, this storyline has the potential to be both affirming and encouraging to queer youth. 

The part of this book that resonates with me so much is Sharon’s personal growth. At one point in the book, she is looking at a poster of a female-led punk band. As she examines it, she begins to contemplate what she is feeling. Is she attracted to this girl because she wants to be like her? Or does she want to date her?

This is such a realistic queer-awakening. I say this because shortly after reading this book, I found myself with those same feelings. Thus began my own queer journey (at age 27, mind you).

For me, this is one of those books that just sticks with you. Regardless of age, this is a powerful story of overcoming homophobia, both external and internalized, and learning to fight for yourself and those you love.

The Gayly online. 8/28/26 @ 5:17 p.m. CST.