Crossing the Lines

Crossing the Lines is a groundbreaking exploration of the untold history of New Zealand's gay soldiers during World War II. Written by acclaimed author Brent Coutts, this engaging paperback brings to life the extraordinary experiences of ordinary men who embraced their queer identities amidst the chaos of war. Set against the backdrop of the Pacific and Egypt, the book chronicles the journey of soldiers like Harold Robinson, Ralph Dyer, and Douglas Morison. These brave men contributed to Kiwi concert parties, providing humor and camaraderie that uplifted military morale while navigating their personal journeys of love and identity. Richly illustrated, Crossing the Lines not only documents the struggles faced by homosexual soldiers but also celebrates their resilience and deep friendships. Readers will find themselves captivated by the transformation of their lives—from the challenges of the wartime years to the vibrant postwar scene in London, where they encountered newfound possibilities. This compelling narrative sheds light on the historical context of the queer community and serves as an inspiring account of love and belonging within both military and civilian worlds. Ideal for historians, LGBTQ+ enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the intersection of war and personal identity, Crossing the Lines is an essential addition to any collection.

Author: Brent Coutts Publisher: Otago University Press
Bind: paperback
Dimensions: 170 x 240 mm
Pages: 336
Publication Date: 07-08-2020

In Crossing the Lines, Brent Coutts brings to light the previously untold history of New Zealand homosexual soldiers in World War II, drawing on the experiences of ordinary men who lived through extraordinary times. At the centre of the story are New Zealand soldiers Harold Robinson, Ralph Dyer and Douglas Morison, who shared a queer identity and love of performance. Through their roles as female impersonators in Kiwi concert parties in the Pacific and Egypt they found a place to live as gay men within the military forces, boosting the morale of personnel in the Pacific Campaign and, along the way, falling in love with some of the men they met. Crossing the Lines is a richly illustrated account that follows the men from their formative pre-war lives, through the difficult wartime years to their experiences living in a postwar London where they embraced the many new possibilities available. It is a story of strong friendships, the search for love and belonging as homosexuals within the military and civilian worlds, and the creation of the foundation of the queer community today.