[image description: a photo of On The Count of Three]

bisexual-books:

Today I received my copy of On The Count of Three by Maureen Johnson.   

This book was originally published under the title of The Bermudez Triangle in 2004.    I read The Bermudez Triangle in 2007 and in my memory, this book stands as the single most gut-punching biphobic book I’ve ever read.  

From what I recall, it was about a secret relationship between a two best friends in which the third best friend is kept in the dark.   Once she finds out and the couple breaks up, then one of the girls becomes a real bitch.   In the end, the Very Accepting Straight Girl and the Gold Star Lesbian are able to work out their issues and go off to live presumably happy and successful lives.   But the Evil Bisexual Whore?   Oh don’t worry, she gets punished and ends up alone and friendless.  

So you may be wondering why I bought the reprint.   Well, because I thought the book was worth a second look.  

David Levithan adds The Bermudez Triangle to his list of the infamous Class of ’03 – the coincidental year that brought out the wave of positive YA GLBT novels that revolutionized the genre.   He lists Bermudez Triangle alongside contemporary classics like The Misfits, Boy Meets Boy, Keeping You A Secret, and Geography Club.   Despite it’s jaw-dropping biphobia, The Bermudez Triangle was named to the YALSA GLBTQ list of Popular Paperbacks for teens.   It’s clear The Bermudez Triangle/On The Count of Three has staying power.  

Also I cannot lie – I am hoping that this reissue is also a re-edit and that Johnson has changed some of the horrible bisexual slurs and stereotypes.   If she hasn’t, then I plan to review it as such.    

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   Its been awhile since I’ve read it but I’m like 95% sure thats not how it ended.

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    [image description: a photo of On The Count of Three]

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25. chiquorinha said: Looking forward to your review. I’m preaching to the choir, I know, but I’m nauseated by the ubiquity of the asshole bi stereotype, and love to watch it taken down. :)
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