Curveball

The Alabama Son They Never Saw Coming

By: Joshua Cole

Narrated by: Joshua Cole

I am a trans memoirist, which is to say, my narrative is complicated. If you were to search public records for the birth certificate of Joshua Tyson Cole, you wouldn't find it. Not because I'm a con artist—no, simply a trans man whose home state makes it very difficult to update legal records. But mismatched paperwork can't stop this recovering Southern gent from spreading the gay gospel like lovebugs on an S-10 Blazer windshield in late August. Ever wonder what happens when a good little Southern Baptist discovers their gayness, joins the army, almost gets arrested for the crime of having to pee, transitions gender, and falls madly in queer love while surviving their parents' late-term abandonment? You're about to find out.

©2023 Joshua Cole (P)2023 Joshua Cole

Beautiful in all capacities

Ever since I’ve known Joshua, he has always had a way with words. Not only that, but he has an ability to make you feel as though you’ve been friends for life in under 30 minutes. His writing style is no different and his warmth and earnestness translate well through his narration.

Curveball is an easy, enjoyable listen at times, as well as a pointed and somber example of perseverance. I laughed out loud to myself at multiple points as though Josh himself was sitting next to me, reliving his memories. While at other points I wanted to extend an empathetic hug. To share one’s personal experiences this publicly is never an easy decision, especially the harder times, but Josh has done so beautifully, respectfully, and honestly.

Well done my friend! I’m so glad we were assigned to the same cruise ship dinner table those many moons ago.