As someone who loves the internet and appreciates its resources (of course it’s not perfect), I’ve always believed it to be an outlet for people to discover themselves. Russell uses metaphors and technical terms to show there is no “irl” distinction, but instead “away from keyboard”. We are connected through both. You build and join communities through online means that can lead to making dreams and new futures become reality. The internet provides a safer space for marginalized communities and especially black queer people to explore their identity. How if you don’t fit into the stereotypical social construct, you are seen as a “glitch” or an “error”, but you’re not, it’s a “becoming” and change to “sustains… persist, survive, stay alive.” When you show up in the world, despite Western/Capitalist ideals, you’re “not only surviving, but truly, fully, living.” There’s a great mantra that Russell writes a couple times that will stick with me.. “Usurp the body! Become your avatar!”

Russell examines body, gender, queerness, and transness through a BIPOC lens, all within the framework of cyberfeminism. Their exploration is both generative and compelling, particularly in the way they reframe “glitches” as sites of resistance and liberation, turning the concept on its head. The work is abstract at times, leaving me wanting more from each chapter, but I think it’s one of those books I’ll appreciate more on the re-read. Looking forward to revisiting it in the future!

I thought the author presented some interesting concepts, but I had a hard time grasping the thesis. I had a hard time keeping up with the different points before the topic would shift. I had a difficult time deciphering the main point of each chapter until the last chapter, where all topics were summarized. I wish the citations would've been included as footnotes at the bottom of the corresponding page rather than tucked into the back of the text.