First Love: Essays on Friendship by Lilly Dancyger

In "First Love," Lilly Dancyger explores the profound connections between women, treating friendships as the love stories they truly are. Following the murder of her cousin, Dancyger's appreciation for her female friendships deepens, driving her to explore the complexities of these relationships.

Through a series of incisive essays, Dancyger delves into the intricacies of female friendships, from the intensity of adolescent bonds to the complexities of fluid sexuality and chosen family. Each essay is rooted in a close friendship from Dancyger's own life, offering a deeply personal lens through which to examine broader cultural assumptions about identity and desire.

Dancyger seamlessly weaves together personal experience with references to literature, pop culture, and societal norms, creating a rich tapestry of female friendship. From fairy tales to true crime, from Anas Nin to the "sad girls" of Tumblr, Dancyger draws on a diverse range of influences to explore the multifaceted nature of love and connection among women.

While acknowledging that friendship cannot shield us from the world's dangers, Dancyger celebrates the resilience and support found in these essential bonds. Through joy and sorrow, friendship remains a source of strength and solace, helping us navigate life's challenges and tragedies.

"First Love" is a tender and thought-provoking homage to the power of female friendship, reminding readers that love is always worth the risk, and that our friends are often the ones who help us survive. With lyrical prose and insightful analysis, Dancyger honors the depth and significance of these essential relationships. ❤️📚❤️