"The Golden Age of Trance and Other Stories" Press Kit

 The Golden Age of Trance and Other Stories (Alien Buddha Press) by James Schwartz. Available on Amazon Aug. 17! Foreword by Perry Brass 

James Schwartz returns with his seventh book from Alien Buddha Press, following acclaimed titles such as Motor City Mix (2022) and AMISH ALCHEMY (2026). The Golden Age of Trance and Other Stories is a fearless collection that explores identity, memory, desire, and the complicated search for belonging. Whether set beneath the flashing lights of Chicago nightlife or the quiet isolation of rural America, these stories pulse with emotional honesty, sharp wit, and unforgettable characters who refuse to fit neatly into anyone else's expectations. Schwartz writes with compassion for outsiders while never looking away from the contradictions that make them real.

A poet, slam performer, speaker, and author, James Schwartz is the Lambda Literary Award nominated author of The Literary Party: Growing Up Gay and Amish in America and a Pushcart Prize nominee whose work has appeared in numerous literary journals. Bold, heartfelt, and impossible to forget, this collection further cements Schwartz as one of Alien Buddha Press's defining voices.

"James has the spirit of many writers flowing through his blood." - Fevers of the Mind 

GOODREADS PAGE

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"Gay Amish people have been excluded from the very start of the Anabaptist movement. We are still oppressed and shunned today. America is quick to laud the Amish for their lifestyle but remains silent on their homophobia. Amish practice shunning which is forced family separation and conversion therapy which is illegal.

The harm caused by the church has led to LGBTQ Amish suicide and physical, emotional and spiritual abuse.

The Amish communities place a great emphasis on their ancestors who were martyred yet today persecute their LGBTQ minority."

‐ James Schwartz  

Some Are and Most Aren't and It's Always Been Like That

 Amazon link 

Some Are and Most Aren't and It's Always Been Like That Selected Poems 2004-2024 by James Schwartz (Alien Buddha Press) 

James Schwartz's collection of selected poems, "Some Are and Most Aren't and It's Always Been Like That," offers readers a compelling journey through the intersections of identity, society, and personal experience. Spanning two decades of poetic exploration from 2004 to 2024, Schwartz's work delves into themes of LGBTQ+ identity, cultural heritage, societal norms, and the human condition with a raw and unflinching honesty.

One of the most striking aspects of Schwartz's poetry is his ability to blend personal narratives with broader social commentary seamlessly. Through his keen observation and introspection, he crafts verses that resonate deeply with readers, inviting them to reflect on their own lives and the world around them.

The collection showcases Schwartz's versatility as a poet, ranging from poignant reflections on his Amish upbringing to powerful expressions of queer pride and resilience. His use of imagery and metaphor creates vivid landscapes that transport readers to the heart of his experiences, whether he's navigating the complexities of love and relationships or grappling with societal injustices.

In addition to his thematic depth, Schwartz's poetic craftsmanship shines through in his attention to language and form. Each poem is meticulously crafted, with every word and line contributing to the overall impact of the piece. From free verse to structured forms, Schwartz demonstrates a mastery of poetic technique that enhances the emotional resonance of his work.

Dispatch from Detroit #12: The Ruth Ellis Center

 

At the Ruth Ellis Clairmount Center mural! 

SUNSET IN ROME Book launch!

 "I have written a wicked book, and feel spotless as the lamb. Ineffable socialities are in me. I would sit down and dine with you and all the gods in old Rome's Pantheon." 

- Herman Melville 

Unlike most Old Order Amish children I attended a public school with teachers who nurtured my love for writing and books. I also was allowed to have a library card. 

The official launch for SUNSET IN ROME is October 9th! If any of my readers will be in Detroit on that date please join me at the book signing / reading / orgy... just kidding about that last bit! Really! Do expect an intimate evening with yours truly in the D! 

Now available on Amazon!

Event link: https://fb.me/e/2LGLaiNhD 

Of course an ex-Amish man's book will be banned. This is a story about defying the church so sermons may even be preached condemning it! Exciting times! 

I even drew the wrath of several ex-Amish YouTube preachers (basically my queer existence, also Plain Rainbows podcast) but let's not forget that these men are selling fundamentalism now. 

https://youtu.be/dXCFrKLNxAI 

Conservative Anabaptists Reject Fundamentalism 

https://anabaptistworld.org/conservative-anabaptists-reject-fundamentalism/

I fail to see the difference between a sex worker and hoeing your Amish heritage for click bait and monetization or book sales.

 SUNSET IN ROME will be suppressed by all Amish publications and those that are controlled by the Holy Hetero Amish Church but it may be found by the gay Amish person who needs to read this story.  

See you at the party!